A Passion for Helping Little Smiles Grow Healthy and Strong
As a pediatric dentist, my goal is to create an everlasting impact, beyond oral healthcare, that positively influences the lives of our patients and their families – all while not taking myself too seriously!
In building this practice, and with every interaction, I am striving to create an inviting and fun atmosphere for every little personality. I am driven to shape a positive memory and association with dentistry, so kids do not grow up feeling fearful about dentistry.
Instead, I want each child to love taking care of their oral health and be fearless in maintaining their wonderful smile, for life!
Education and Experience
As a Little Rock native, I received my Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. Dental school was completed at the Texas A&M Health Science Center, Baylor College of Dentistry, in Dallas, Texas. My Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS) was awarded in 2013.
Next came my pediatric dentistry residency and specialized training at NYU Langone Health in Nashville, Tennessee, where I received my Certificate in Pediatric Dentistry in 2018.
Following my residency, I practiced in Texas and Arkansas, and in November 2020, I opened Tooth Squad Pediatric Dentistry in Centerton. In promoting healthy smiles and instilling the importance of oral hygiene, my team and I create a pediatric dental environment that children love. Following the success of the Centerton office, a Fayetteville location was opened in September 2024.
Serving Northwest Arkansas communities, and having the privilege to meet and spend time with so many wonderful, dynamic children, is the culmination of my professional dreams.
I am a kid at heart and can easily relate to my patients. I enjoy creating a bond and watching them grow up within our office, turning into adults that will change the world. Kids have such great imaginations and joy for life: it is invigorating!
Specialized, Ongoing Education and Professional Affiliations
As a board certified pediatric dentist, I have completed training on the oral health of children, from infants through adolescents, as well as strategies and skills required to address the needs of those with special concerns.
The very young, pre-teens, and teenagers all need different approaches in dealing with their behavior, guiding their dental growth and development, and helping them avoid future dental problems. My specialized training ensures I am able to care for children in a safe, positive, and encouraging manner.
One of the most exciting aspects of my specialty is the constant advancements that lead to new techniques, materials, and technologies. Through continuing education – in-person meetings, webinars, recorded lectures, and publications – I stay current on the latest innovations and emerging trends.
I am board certified by and a member of the College of Diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, and a member in good standing of the:
- American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
- American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
- Arkansas State Dental Association
- Arkansas Dental Association
- Pet Partners Animal Therapy
Beyond the Office
I live in Bentonville with Colt, my German Short-Haired Pointer; he and I are a registered therapy dog team. I enjoy concerts and live music, and love to travel and explore new-to-me places.
Outside of children’s smiles, I love all things related to aerospace, the cosmos, and space travel: when I grow up, I plan to be an astronaut! I am fascinated by all things related to Batman, too: I have a custom-made Batman suit and love to wear it and volunteer at events!
Personally and professionally, I have decided to dedicate time to volunteer efforts and love all that entails. Volunteering allows me to interact with and get to know people I would not normally meet, and gives me an added sense of purpose. At the same time, I am helping to boost happiness in others and having the ability to help people in need elevates all of us, making our community stronger.
I participate in Make-A-Wish, Pet Partners, and Global Dental Relief. The mission of the latter is to bring free dental care to children around the globe, including Nepal, India, Guatemala, Mexico, Kenya, and Cambodia.
