Meet Our Doctors
Kind, caring pediatric dentists in Richland and Kennewick, WA

‘‘The best part of dentistry is teaching little surfers to value and care for themselves. If a child is suffering from tooth decay, it’s my goal to do everything possible to return him or her to a healthy state."
Education and continuing education
In order to become a dentist, I first attended the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, where I received a bachelor’s degree in natural science. Then I earned my Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Washington School of Dentistry. Later, I served a residency in pediatric dentistry at the University of Maryland in Baltimore.
Although my formal education is complete, I always strive to learn about the latest dental techniques and technologies. By knowing the most comfortable and efficient procedures in my profession, I can provide my patients with the best experiences available, while offering parents the best options available.
Professional affiliations
- American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
- American Dental Association
- Washington State Dental Society
- Benton Franklin County Dental Society
Practice philosophy
As a dentist, I enjoy the daily interactions with my patients and try to make them feel involved in and enthusiastic about taking care of their teeth. I like to focus on preventive interventions and enjoy discussing these strategies with parents.
I love finding different ways to connect with our patients. I enjoy taking the time to learn about patients’ hobbies and interests, I enjoy singing to my younger patients (they don’t care if I am in tune), and I like a good game of high five (up high, down low, too slow joe!!!). I am always eager to serve our Spanish-speaking patients and families; I lived in Ecuador for two years and speak Spanish fluently!
Family life
My wife and I live in Kennewick and are proud to raise our six children in such a wonderful community. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, movies, and sporting events, and I am taking guitar lessons. My favorite activity, though, is spending time with my family outdoors!

‘‘My number one priority is to have our patients develop a positive dental attitude and maintain optimum oral health for a lifetime!”
Education and continuing education
I completed my undergraduate education at Brigham Young University, earning a Bachelor of Science in neuroscience. I then graduated with a Doctorate of Dental Surgery summa cum laude from Creighton University School of Dentistry. Following dental school, I completed my training in the specialty of pediatric dentistry at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital in Ohio.
As a part of my continuing education, I am an active member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Dental Association.
Family life
My wife and I live in the Tri-City area, and are grateful to raise our five children here. In my spare time, I enjoy doing various outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking and going to the gym. I also enjoy watching and playing team sports. My all-time favorite pastime, though, is going on vacation with my wonderful family!


‘‘I love each child’s unique personality, and appreciate the challenge of really getting to know each one, and in doing so, learning how to interact with them in a way that will make them trust me and feel comfortable communicating with me.”
I love each child’s unique personality, and appreciate the challenge of really getting to know each one, and in doing so, learning how to interact with them in a way that will make them trust me and feel comfortable communicating with me. I also love teaching the children and their parents about what I know best: teeth! An important part of my job that I really enjoy is teaching children and their parents how to take care of the child’s teeth, so that they have one less thing they need to worry about!
I am so happy to be a pediatric dentist. I love the strength of the children’s personalities, the sincerity of their smiles, and the chance that I have to get to know them. It is a great feeling to work as part of a team where we all strive to ensure that their time with us will help each child to become more confident, friendly, healthy, and happy.
Education and continuing education
- Bachelor of Science in chemistry – Brigham Young University, magna cum laude
- Doctorate of Dental Surgery – UCLA School of Dentistry, cum laude
- Pediatric dental residency – University of Tennessee
I love learning about how we as pediatric dentists can help children develop healthy, functional mouths, with teeth that will last for a lifetime. I want nothing more than for every child to grow up with a healthy smile that will bring confidence to them and warmth to others. As an active member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, I continue my education on a regular basis in all aspects of pediatric dentistry.
Outside the office
I grew up in Provo, Utah. After living in both Los Angeles and Memphis, I have finally settled in the Tri-Cities area. I somehow convinced a beautiful, smart, caring redhead named Cheryl to marry me. We have three amazing children. I love spending time outside with my family. I am hopelessly addicted to fly-fishing and can’t seem to spend enough time on the water. I also love backpacking, cycling, running, playing golf, softball, and basketball, and bird hunting. Most of all, I love my wife and kids immensely, and I take seriously the responsibility I have to teach my children to be hard-working, honest, considerate individuals. I strive daily to lead by example.
I have had nothing but amazing services here. All the people are friendly and they are really good with my kids even when one was scared and one hates having people look in her mouth. Thank you guys so much for making it easier for me.
- Jordyn A., Actual Parent
Meet Our Dental Team

Yadira
Front Office Administrative Lead, Operations Assistant

Angela
Dental Assistant, Administrative Assistant

Stefanie
Administrative Assistant

Kristal
Administrative Assistant

Kayla
Dental Assistant, Operations Assistant

Kaylon
Dental Hygienist

Rebecca
Dental Hygienist

Jessica
Dental Assistant, Administrative Assistant

Tanner
Dental Assistant

Lily
Dental Assistant

Janett
Dental Assistant

Tara
Dental Assistant

Jeannette
Dental Assistant

Becca
Dental Assistant

Kylee
Dental Assistant

It’s our mission to instill the importance of good oral hygiene at a young age. We genuinely care about the Tri-Cities, which is why we donate our time and skills to help those in need. How do we do this?
If you would like to get involved with any of our community events, please contact us or speak to us during your visit to Smile Surfers in Richland, WA or Kennewick, WA.
