I grew up surrounded by the beautiful mountains of Utah and Colorado as one of four children. I always had an interest in the study of social life and human behavior as well as world cultures, which led me to major in Sociology and Spanish at the University of Louisville.

While studying in my undergraduate career, I learned that oral health has been tied to many determinants of overall health and social well-being. I went on to study dentistry at the University of Kentucky after being awarded a scholarship in the Health Professionals Scholarship Program with the U.S. Army. During dental school, I used my Spanish language fluency in combination with my dental knowledge to develop outreach programs to improve oral health in the Hispanic community as well as underserved areas in rural Kentucky.

Upon graduating dental school, I completed an AEGD (Advanced Education in General Dentistry) postdoctorate residency program at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington state. After receiving exceptional instruction from a team of dental specialists during my residency, I was fortunate to be stationed with the Army in Germany for 4 years where I worked alongside the clinic’s orthodontist. I noticed the positive impact of orthodontics on the lives of patients. I came to realize that orthodontics is an intriguing puzzle, one that intertwines technique with individualized treatments. I also saw the unique opportunity to bond with my patients during their orthodontic treatment.

After I completed my military service, I was ecstatic to be accepted at UNC-Chapel Hill for my postdoctorate residency in orthodontics. I learned from the best faculty members in the orthodontic field, to include Dr. Kelly Mitchell! I have always loved animals, and during my orthodontics residency I took special interest in treating families and interdisciplinary care which led me to complete a study on the effects of animal(dog)-assisted therapy in pediatric dental patients.

I love outdoor activities, like hiking and bike riding, with my husband and son. I also enjoy training my mini schnauzer, Rocco. I have a passion for good food and love to try international dishes and new restaurants. I look forward to being a part of my patients’ treatment and smile transformation!