As a dentist, Im in a unique position to change peoples lives for the better, every day. Whether Im restoring someones ability to chew properly and comfortably, moving them out of dental pain, or improving their smile, Im increasing their quality of life.
As Im working to improve their dental health, Im getting to know each person. I love the stories they share and being included in their life. Its a great feeling when a person opens up to me and lets me know about who they are beyond the dental chair: that level of trust is humbling.
My father was a dentist here in Sonora for almost 30 years. Hearing him speak about the work he did, and the relationships he built with his patients, helped me decide that dentistry was the right path for me. I have no doubt I made the right decision by following in his footsteps.
My Doctorate of Dental Surgery was awarded by Loma Linda School of Dentistry. While I received an excellent foundational education, dentistry is a constantly changing field. New technologies are being developed, along with materials and treatments, and its essential I remain current on these changes. My patients trust me to deliver the highest level of care and best options; continuing education makes that happen.
I take dental courses throughout the year, as well as participate in hands-on demonstrations. I also attend meetings at the local, regional, and national levels, as well as remaining up to date through oral healthcare journals.
Im a Sonora native and cant imagine living anywhere else. My wife Orene helps here in the office and we have four young children. When Im not working, Im usually playing with the kids. I really enjoy my time with them. I also like time spent on the lake, skiing and going camping and hiking with friends.
I think its important to share my abilities and professional skills with those in need in our community. I volunteer with Hope Clinic and Give Kids a Smile, a program that offers essential, life-changing dental care to children whose families cant afford regular treatment.
We recognize that all our patients are unique and deserve to receive dental care that reflects their individual needs. Our experienced and talented dental team is committed to working with you and your family to create a comfortable, stress-free, and rewarding dental experience every time you visit our practice.
I have seven incredible grandchildren who have stolen my heart. I also have a dog: a Shih Tzu. When Im not working, I enjoy cooking healthy and nutritious meals, working in my yard, and spending time with loved ones.
I love helping people achieve great dental health and the smile theyve always wanted. Ours is a practice where our patients comfort and goals are our primary concern: We want everyone to feel safe and welcome during their visits, and to leave smiling and looking forward to the next time. As the financial coordinator, I work directly with our patients. I make sure theyre able to get the most out of their insurance benefits. I am also a registered dental assistant and have the opportunity to step into the back and use my assisting skills as well.
I love coming to work because we have such a positive environment here at Thorn Family Dental. Our team works so well together and I love how everyone strives to make every visit a comfortable experience for each
I graduated from Columbia College and also completed the dental assisting program at Modesto Junior College, becoming an RDA in 2007. I am so thankful to have such a fun job and to be part of the best dental office around! I am also so thankful for my family.
As Dr. Thorns dental assistant, I am excited every day to be part of such an outstanding dental team here at Thorn Family Dental. I choose the dental field to utilize my talents in helping patients achieve a healthier, happier smile. A lot of patients have fear because of previous uncomfortable dental experience. I like to build their confidence with understanding, compassion and support. Patient care is number one to me and my fellow team members.
I have been an RDA, since 2016. I quickly learned that patient care is the number one priority. I am striving daily to help make my patients as comfortable as possible in the dental chair. Meeting my goal is made much easier when working here, surrounded by such a positive team and environment. I am looking forward to an exciting future in my career here as well as meeting all our awesome patients!
Being a dental hygienist is so much more than just cleaning teeth. I have the opportunity to form meaningful, trusting relationships with my patients while improving a very important part of their overall health. Our patients are wonderful people, and getting to know them on a personal level is one of the best parts of my job. I also feel so fortunate to work with our awesome team! We are like a family here: always willing to help and support each other.
I was born and raised in Sonora. I graduated from Sonora High School in 2002 and from Columbia College in 2004. I have been married to my husband Grant for more than 15 years. We have two daughters, Ella and Mia. We also have three dogs Henry, Gracie, and Abby as well as a cat named Lucy. In my spare time I love to attend Giants games, read, travel, camp, and spend time with my family and friends.
I became a Dental Hygienist about 6 years ago to help people achieve a happy and healthy smile. Getting into my career as a hygienist, I realized its so much more than that! I love the friendships and the trust we get to build with our patients and coworkers. Health is so important and I am happy to be able to help people with that. I am so pleased to be part of the Thorn Family Dental team. The staff and patients are absolutely amazing here. I know I made it to the right spot and am so grateful for it. This office truly cares about their patients.
I love being a dental hygienist, because I get to help patients not only improve their dental health, but also get to know them as a person. My goal is to give our patients all the necessary tools to help them reach and maintain their oral health goals. Working with our wonderful patients is by far the best part of my job.
I graduated from California State University Stanislaus in 2011, with a bachelor in biology, a minor in chemistry and a concentration in genetics. After, graduating I worked as a patient coordinator until going back to school to get my dental assisting license. I came to Thorn Family Dental in 2015 to fulfill my internship requirements to become a registered dental assistant and have been with the office ever since. I obtained by dental hygiene license from Carrington College in Sacramento. I love helping out in any capacity around the office, whether it is assisting, hygiene or front office.
I was born in Sonora where my dad practiced as a dentist for over 20 years. When I moved back and bought my practice in 2015, I had a dream of having my father-in-law build a dental office one day. I wanted it to be warm, functional, big enough to grow, maintenance free as possible with updated equipment to take care of the many families in Tuolumne County. We hope you enjoy and feel welcome by myself and staff.