I love the one-on-one time I get with my patients, and I cherish the opportunity to bring positive changes to their self-esteem as well as their health. Getting acquainted with patients over the course of treatment gives me greater personal satisfaction than simply being their orthodontist. I have made many close friends over the years, and I love seeing their proud smiles after treatment.

Education and Continuing Education

I received my Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. I then received my Doctorate of Dental Medicine from the University of Florida where I earned the Academy of Women Dentists Award and the Operative Dentistry Award. I also earned the honor of being board-eligible for the American Board of Orthodontics. I was on the faculty and taught at the University of Florida’s dental school before returning for my specialty degree in orthodontics.

Continuing education is a very important aspect of my career as an orthodontist. It provides me with knowledge of the latest in techniques, allowing me to incorporate state-of-the-art technology into the practice and provide the best care to my patients. In addition, by attending local and national meetings of dental specialist and organizations, I am able understand the overall needs of my patients and collaborate with other dental professionals regarding the most complex treatment plans.

Professional Affiliations  

• American Dental Association
• American Association of Orthodontists
• Southern Association of Orthodontists
• Florida Association of Orthodontists
• Alachua County Dental Society

Outside the Office

I was born in Durham, NC, and moved to Gainesville shortly thereafter. I have two older brothers and several nieces and nephews, but I share my home with my four-legged children, Zipp and Zhoe. When I’m not creating beautiful smiles, I enjoy staying active by running, playing tennis, cycling, and training for my first half marathon. An adventurer at heart, I was a member of the 1999 Great Expectations team that trekked to the North Pole. I also climbed Kilimanjaro that same year and went to Antarctica with National Geographic in 2007.

Community Organizations

In addition to supporting local youth sports teams and activities, I am also involved with:

• Altrusa of Columbia County
• Advisor, St. Francis Pet Care Clinic
• Guardian Ad Litem Supporter