I have always loved both art and science, so orthodontics is the perfect profession for me. I truly love what I do! I feel very blessed to be able to spend my day helping people improve their lives by giving them a healthy and beautiful smile. Each patient is different, and their journeys through orthodontic treatment are always somewhat unique. It is an exciting day for the patients when their braces are put on, but it’s an even bigger day when they come off. The enormous sense of accomplishment that is felt by the patients and parents on that special day is equally shared by me and my entire staff!
We have a very friendly and welcoming office for both children and adults. My professional and talented staff loves what they do and they enjoy working with patients of all ages. It is our goal to provide excellent orthodontic care in a professional, caring, and friendly environment.
Education and Continuing Education
Along with every science class I could fit into my schedule, I studied foreign language and the performing arts at Brigham Young University from 1992-1996. I also served a two year mission to southern Japan for my church.
I continued my education at the University of Southern California dental school, and received my Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), where I was a member of Omicron Kappa Upsilon Honor Society. We stayed three more years in California while I completed my Orthodontic Residency program at USC, where I earned my Master of Science degree and certificate in Orthodontics.
Orthodontics is a fascinating and continually changing profession and I believe continuing education is critical to stay current and be successful. I attend CE courses on a regular basis so I can provide our patients with the most effective, efficient and up to date treatment possible.
There seems to always be something new to learn about that can help make my treatments more comfortable, quicker, or of better quality. My goal is to provide you with the best treatment available. This is only possible when I have the best techniques and technologies at my disposal. Thus, I am a life long learner and enjoy the many advancements in the field of orthodontics. I make sure that each one stands up to my high standards before incorporating any into the procedures my practice offers to you.
Professional Memberships
I am an active member in several dental and orthodontic organizations including the American Association or Orthodontists, American Board of Orthodontics, the Missouri Dental Association, and the Illinois Dental Association.
In the Office
I feel that it’s an exciting day for my patients when their braces are first put on. I try to make it an occasion to remember, because it is the beginning of the journey to the best smile of your life. To me orthodontics is about taking something that has great potential and making it perfect. Thus, the biggest day of any treatment is when my patients’ braces come off. We all feel a sense of accomplishment.
Community Involvement
Being involved in the community is very important to me. I was first certain that I wanted to go into this field after being involved with a dental service group named “Ayuda” that was created by my father’s uncle to treat the indigent children of Mexico, Belize, and Central Los Angeles.
I am also a passionate creator. I make every attempt to inspire children to dream big. I believe that we each have an inner voice, a potential for creativity that is incredible. I want to help people open the door to this potential. I am involved with Boy Scouts, teaching Sunday School, and play the organ for our services.
Outside the Office
My family and I settled down in Fenton, Missouri in 2005 and have loved being part of the community. I married my college sweetheart who I met after she returned to the U.S. from a year and a half mission trip to Hong Kong, China. We have three boys and love singing. I enjoy reading, running, yoga and playing the acoustic guitar.