Meet Our Orthodontic Team

I currently live in Manchester, CT with my boyfriend and my two cats, Lenny and Linus.

I was an ophthalmic technician for about six years, but then I decided I needed a change. I’ve always been interested in orthodontics, and I thought exploring that area was a great way to broaden my knowledge in the medical field.

I consider myself a problem solver. Every time I talk to a patient, my goal and focus are to resolve their issues as quickly as possible. I genuinely enjoy getting to know each of our patients and helping them feel completely relaxed at the office.

Outside of the office:

I love to cook, travel, and hang out with my two cats.

Interesting Fact:

I would love to visit the Cook Islands one day.

I’ve lived in Connecticut for more than 40 years. I am married and have a wonderful son. He has blessed us with a beautiful and sassy granddaughter, and a recently born grandson. Life doesn’t get better than that!

I started as a dental assistant when I was in high school for my family dentist. It was such a fun environment, I knew it was where I wanted to be, and I was right! Meeting and helping people, working with a great team, and having fun along the way is always the right choice.

My goal is to make insurance claims and your visit a stress-free experience. When I’m able to guide patients through the process, and I hear a sigh of relief, I feel thrilled I was able to help someone.

Who’s your hero and why?

My father. He was a very patient man who could teach a child anything. He was always a loving husband, father, and person.

Interesting Fact:

I’m a competitive pool player. I shoot pool in two leagues with the goal to make it to Las Vegas. It hasn’t happened yet, but it will!

I currently live in Vernon, CT, with my husband and two children.

I chose orthodontics because one of the first things most people notice about another person is their smile. I wanted to be a part of a team that helps people gain confidence through a perfect smile.

I attended Porter and Chester Institute and received the honor of being named the Student Ambassador in the dental program while maintaining a 4.0 GPA. I hold certifications for CPR, Infection Control, and Radiation Health & Safety. I like to continually test my knowledge, guessing what Dr. Griffin’sLearn more about our dentist next step will be in each patient’s treatment.

Outside of the Office:

I enjoy visiting Cape Cod, spending time with family, and cake decorating.

Interesting fact:

I was a patient here before I became one of Dr. Griffin’s assistants.

I graduated in 2013 from Manchester Community College with a certification in Dental Assisting. I live in a fixer-upper in Manchester with my husband and our dog, Linguini.

Why did you choose dentistry?
Dentistry has always fascinated me, and I have always wanted to work in a profession where I can provide patients with personalized care.

What is the best part of your job?
My favorite part of my job is being able to watch the transformations of new patients throughout their orthodontic treatment.

What do you do outside of the office?
In my spare time, I love doing projects on my home as well as baking and crafting!

What’s one item on your bucket list?
The number one item on my bucket list is to go to Santorini, Greece!

My boyfriend and I currently live in Ellington, CT. Together we have a son and daughter who keep us very busy!

I chose Orthodontics when I was in braces myself. I was so excited to go to each appointment because I knew I was that much closer to straightening my smile! The best part of my job is watching the confidence in our patients transform from the time we meet to when they are finished with their treatment!

Outside the Office:

Outside the office I love spending time with my family, vacationing to the Cape, and finding new icecream spots to try!

Interesting Fact:

When I was little, I used to have a lot of anxiety going to the dentist. My family always tells me how ironic it is that I chose this field. I try my hardest to connect with our patients who feel similarly because I know how hard it can be to relax when you’re in the chair!

I grew up in Wethersfield, CT where I currently still reside with my significant other Mike, my son Timothy, our four cats Fin, Stella, Binx, and Neptune, and our three dogs Lily, Gunner, and Roxie.

Why did you choose dentistry?
I started my career as a dental sterilization tech after I answered an ad in the local newspaper 23 years ago and the rest is history!

I dabbled as a Dental Assistant before I quickly found my niche as an Orthodontic Assistant.

What is the best part of your job?
I love to help patients realize and achieve their dream of a beautiful, confident, healthy new smile.

What aspect of your personality adds the most value to the office?
I can help even the most uneasy patient feel comfortable and relaxed as they’re getting their braces or lnvisalign!

What do you do outside of the office?
Outside of the office, I enjoy cooking and baking for my family. I also love to bike around town and travel when I can.

Who is your hero? Why?
My heroes are my parents who gave me life and taught me to never give up no matter the circumstances. I have many fond memories of them planting and harvesting their garden together and raising my oldest brother and I. I would one day love to travel and possibly retire to their homeland Portugal.