I love helping patients feel better: improving their oral health and boosting the appearance of each person's smile. In doing so, I help bolster their overall health, wellness, self-confidence and increase their quality of life.
I graduated from dental school in 1984. Many of my patients have been with me since we opened the practice doors. The longevity of those relationships, and the mutual trust and respect that has grown over the years, is one of my proudest accomplishments.
My team and I appreciate that we see and care for three and four generations of some families and have enjoyed watching those families grow and change over the years. We have celebrated babies, provided fun-filled first dental visits, created beautiful smiles for all ages of patients and given grandparents and great-grandparents strong, healthy smiles. We have been part of their lives and stories, and they’ve been part of ours.
After these years of practicing, I still wake looking forward to coming to the office. I am eager to see familiar faces and catch-up with friends, and anticipate meeting new people and starting to build a rapport.
I love blending science and art with personal connections. I cannot imagine a more fulfilling profession!
Education and Professional Memberships
- Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences, University of Southern California, 1980
- Doctorate of Dental Surgery, University of Southern California Dental School, 1984
Lifelong learning is critical for all professionals, and especially for those in the medical field. In oral healthcare, we see amazing advancements in technologies, materials, and techniques every year, and it is essential to stay at the forefront of those changes.
Through continuing education, I constantly learn about and evaluate new options, selecting only the best to bring to the practice: those that will ensure my patients achieve their treatment goals more efficiently and comfortably, while providing exceptional results.
I am a partner in the San Antonio Orthodontic Study Group, which provides continuing education for dentists. I am also an active member of the:
- American Dental Association
- California Dental Association
- Harbor Dental Society
- International Association for Orthodontics
Each of these organizations offers a range of continuing education opportunities, from annual meetings to lectures and seminars. I regularly seek out courses, attend gatherings, and stay up-to-date with the latest publications.
Beyond the Practice
I grew up in La Mirada and have lived in the Long Beach area since finishing dental school. Outside of seeing patients, I make time to socialize with family and friends.
I enjoy traveling, the beach, escaping into a book and attending sporting events as well as live theater and concerts. When time permits, I can be found cycling with an organized bike club that’s based in Long Beach.