Orthodontic Ideals
As an orthodontist, the most rewarding part of my job is seeing the self-confidence and happiness on patient’s faces when their treatment is complete. It is not lost upon me that orthodontic treatment will have a significant impact on the life of each and every patient. I am constantly striving to raise the standard of oral healthcare for children and adults by delivering the highest quality of service to my patients. From day one, I want the patient to know that they are important, and every visit will be comprehensive and thorough so that they know they are receiving the best results possible.
Background and Education
I have been practicing orthodontics since graduating residency in 2018. I am the first of my family to become a dentist, and have been so grateful of my career choice. I grew up in a small-town in southern Indiana and from there I completed my undergraduate degree in Spanish from the University of Notre Dame. Following college, I earned a Master’s of Science degree in Oral Biology and a Doctorate of Dental Medicine at the University of Louisville. I then continued my dental education at Saint Louis University Center for Advanced Dental Education where I earned my specialty certificate in Orthodontics as well as a Master of Science in Dentistry. During my time at SLU, I was also selected to complete a fellowship with Washington University’s Craniofacial Cleft Lip and Palate team at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. The education and experiences I had during my residency have given me the knowledge to diagnose and treat a broad spectrum of orthodontic needs.
In Practice
I started my orthodontic career working in a large corporate office in Peoria, IL which often felt like orthodontic treatment was simply a transaction. Feeling like I wanted to provide more, I decided to open my own practice in St. Louis Hills. As a smaller, more personalized office, I take pride in the fact that I get to know each patient and family personally, and I am able to tailor care to the individual. I aim for perfection, and want to make the entire orthodontic process as easy and enjoyable as possible.
Professional Affiliations and Continuing Education
I am an active member of the following organizations:
- American Association of Orthodontists
- American Dental Association
- Missouri Dental Society
- Greater Saint Louis Dental Society
- Orthodontic Education and Research Foundation.
Through these organizations and my associateship, I have numerous opportunities to further expand my knowledge and treatment options for patients. I am constantly learning by attending meetings and lectures, as well as staying current with the most up-to-date treatment guidelines. I base my treatment recommendations on evidence-based research, so I can be confident patients are receiving the highest quality of care.
Beyond Orthodontics
A native of Jasper, Indiana, I now consider St. Louis Hills my home, and I am excited to be raising my family in this wonderful community. My husband Chris and I met while I was in residency at SLU. We married in 2020, and now have two amazing children: MaryRose and Christopher III.