What (or who) inspired you to get into dentistry? How so?
Growing up I was always questioned about my small upper anterior teeth. I always assumed they were retained baby teeth but never really knew. I applied to a vocational high school, Clara Barton, and one of the majors was Dental Assisting. I immediately applied (to learn more about my mysterious little teeth!) and was accepted into the program. I learned that I have microdontia (small teeth) and a peg lateral (when the second tooth on either side of the front teeth is small and slightly pointed). After learning that and several other things, I absolutely fell in love with dentistry and haven't looked back since.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
Getting to help people is the most rewarding part of my job. Your smile is one of the first things people see when they meet you, so I'm always looking forward to helping people achieve the perfect smile and show off their pearly whites!
What famous person (alive or dead) is your dream dental patient? Why?
Tom Cruise! I'd absolutely love to see his asymmetrical smile in person.
What’s something your patients might be surprised to learn about you?
I absolutely love animals and have had several pets throughout the years, but my favorite pet of all time is the huge boa constrictor I had when I was 8 years old.
How do you recharge after a long week? What’s your go-to activity for hitting the restart button?
I recharge after a long week by indulging in some self-care: journaling, reading, watching crime documentaries, and having a glass of wine or cup of tea are my favorite wind-down activities.
In another life, if you weren’t working in dentistry, what would you be doing?
I'd definitely, without a doubt, be doing forensics. I love it!