My early dental experiences as a child were negative ones. Then one day my mom took me to a female
dentist. I was nine years old and it was the most pleasant dental experience I had
ever had. I remember thinking, "Wow, I want to be a dentist too! And the white coat
looks so cool!" It was then I knew that I wanted to be in the dental profession.
I was born in Colombia, South America. At the age of five, my family immigrated to the
United States. I grew up on Long Island. In 1988, I received my Bachelor of Science degree
in Biochemistry with honors from Hofstra University. I graduated Cum Laude
and Phi Beta Kappa. Among my most valuable experiences during college, in terms of
understanding human nature and people in pain, was the volunteer work I did at University of Pennsylvania School of Dental
Medicine. An excellent education that not only included the traditional core
course curriculum but also included classes in things like ethics and bed-side
manner in pediatric dentistry.
While at the University of Pennsylvania, I was accepted into the hospital
dentistry honors program. This gave me the opportunity to take first year
medical courses at the University's medical school, as well as a dental
and medical externship at HUP (Hospital University of Pennsylvania). The program
emphasized general dentistry, oral surgery and oral medicine. I also did a summer
externship in dentistry at Long Island Jewish Medical Center in New Hyde Park.
After graduating from dental school, I went on to do a two year residency in
general dentistry at Long Island Jewish Medical Center. The program included
advanced training in general dentistry, pediatric dentistry, geriatic dentistry,
oral surgery, periodontics, and oral pathology. Upon completing my residency, I went
into private practice.
It has been my privilege to be an associate at Shoreham Family Dental since
February 1996. One of the things that I value the most here is that Dr. Ron and Dr. Eric
and I all share the same philosophy on patient care and dental treatment. Our first priority
is the patient, then their comfort, and addressing their concerns. There are many aspects of
dentistry that I enjoy like making a nervous patient feel comfortable, alleviating a patient's
discomfort, and having a patient like their own smile. I like all aspects of general dentistry,
from filling cavities to implants.
In my spare time, I'm basically a "Soccer Mom." I enjoy spending time with my husband, son
and daughter. My interests are drawing, painting, art history and sports, especially soccer
and baseball. I enjoy ice skating and I am a member of the American Dental Association and
New York State Dental Society. I take continuing education courses on all aspects of dentistry.
I welcome you all to the practice. Our goal is to make you feel comfortable whle meeting all
your dental needs. See you soon!
