I love being a dentist! My profession allows me to change people’s smiles into the most beautiful smiles possible, increasing self-esteem and confidence. At the same time, I am able to improve each person’s oral health, enhancing their overall health and well-being.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my career, beyond changing my patients’ lives for the better, is the connection that develops between myself and each patient. I love to listen to a person’s concerns, learn their needs, and hear about their lives.
When my patient understands that I am listening and care about what they share, it builds trust. It is from this trusting relationship that I am empowered to provide the best guidance and care. My patient and I then work toward a shared goal of their healthiest, most becoming smile.
Background and Education
I grew up in Westminster, in Southern California, and completed a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry at the University of California - Irvine in 2001. During my college years I worked part-time as a dental assistant and that experience inspired me to pursue dentistry as a career. Dentistry is about helping people improve oral health, which improves their bodily health and general well-being. Also, I can help people have beautiful smiles, which is very rewarding; patient happiness is my happiness!
After completing my undergraduate degree, I attended Tufts Dental School, obtaining my Doctorate of Dental Surgery in 2005.
I have practiced dentistry for 19 years and have no doubt that I chose the perfect career for my skills, interests, and passions. It is an honor to help people, whether relieving pain, beautifying a smile, restoring function, or educating on preventive techniques. With every interaction, I am dedicated to providing the best care and results, so my patient is happy and healthy.
Continuing Education
Like all areas of healthcare, dentistry is constantly advancing. Research leads to new techniques, innovative technologies, and changes in patient care. It is my responsibility to stay current on the latest developments, studying and incorporating the best – those that improve patient experience and outcome – into the practice.
I am a member of the American and California Dental Associations. Through those organizations, and continuing education classes with the UCLA and UCSF dental schools learning groups, I am constantly learning. This ensures I am providing patients with the most up-to-date care.
Beyond the Office
I’ve called the Bay Area home for almost 20 years. I have two children, and a family dog named Mochi. My greatest passion, outside of family and work, is gardening. I especially enjoy growing flowers for all seasons. Cooking is another of my favorite activities; I try to cook new-to-me recipes every weekend. I love music, too, and Zumba, ballet, and BollyX are part of my daily activities.
