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As a child, I loved going to see my pediatric dentist and my orthodontist. I was also drawn to science and art. So I decided on my future profession when I was very young and never wavered in pursuing anything else as a career.
Dentistry, and the orthodontic specialty, offered a way to be an important part of people’s lives: influencing facial growth and building a healthy, functional, Spectacular Smile that lasts a lifetime!
As an Orthodontist
My team and I are here to give you and your family the best orthodontic care. Professionally, my goal is to maximize the function and aesthetic of jaws, facial profile, and teeth, regardless of age.
I treat my patients and their families the way I would like my family to be treated. That includes the highest quality and individualized orthodontic care, and a personal interest in you and your family. I love seeing how each person’s confidence grows as we work together to reveal their TrueSmile!
With early intervention, also known as Phase-One treatment, I can positively guide a child’s facial/jaw development before a problem starts or worsens. In addition to using appliances to better position the upper jaw and improve lower jaw growth, I use specialized methods to limit habits that can be detrimental to growth and tooth eruption, and may lead to airway is such a thumb sucking and tongue thrust.
When treating adult patients, I work in an interdisciplinary partnership with the patient’s dentist and other specialists for the success of even the most complex cases.
I am blessed to work with a variety of patients of different ages, interests, and backgrounds. I love the opportunity to get to know each patient as an individual and appreciate the unique energy and excitement each brings to my practice and my life.
Beyond the Practice
When I am away from the office, I make incredible memories with my husband Mike and my daughter Sophia. You may see Sophia at the office sometimes, for her own treatment and because she wants to be an orthodontist! Our family includes a loveable but naughty Maltese named Toby.
We love going swimming and hiking, enjoy movie nights, and like to try out different restaurants in the area. Of course, we also love to travel when we can, especially to Brazil, where I was raised, to visit with family and friends.
Outside of work, I enjoy strengthening relationships with friends and family. Living a healthy lifestyle, with a blend of exercise, yoga, and swimming, is important to me. That said, I do make an occasional exception for my love: coconut ice cream!
My Education
- Bachelor of Science, Biology/Chemistry/Spanish
- Bemidji State University, MN,1998
- Doctorate of Dental Surgery
- University of Iowa College of Dentistry, 2002
- Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics
- University of Iowa College of Dentistry, 2004
- Master of Science, emphasis in Genetics
- University of Iowa College of Dentistry, 2006
Through continuing education, I strive to be at the forefront of the latest developments in orthodontics. Throughout the year I attend numerous local, regional, and national meetings, and participate in the industry’s most renowned continuing education workshops.
I am excited to constantly challenge myself and expand my knowledge and skills, to ensure my patients receive the best care for their new smiles!
Professional Affiliations
I am active in local and national orthodontic and dental societies, including the:
Additionally, I have the pleasure of being part of the Marquette University School of Dentistry Mentorship Program.
This innovative program provides the students with a trustworthy role model with whom they may discuss their questions and dental school experiences.
Our Treatments
Everyone at TrueSmile orthodontics & esthetics is committed to caring for you as family. You will receive high-quality, individualized treatment and know you are heard, safe, and treasured for the remarkable person you are!
