Abby, Call Center Specialist
As a call center specialist, Abby answers patient phone calls, schedules appointments, and checks insurance coverage. She says being outgoing and hardworking makes her a great fit for the job. “I’m compassionate and I have great customer service skills!” she says.
A Groveport, OH, native, Abby says having family at the Hines Little Smiles practice made it a natural choice for her to join the team. She says she loves how compassionate and family oriented the practice is. “Everyone is very compassionate, loyal, professional and hardworking!”
When she’s not managing the phones, Abby is spending time (preferably out doors) with her boyfriend of three years, her stepson, and her greyhound, “the greatest dog in the world, Lucy.” She supports Meals on Wheels, Toys for Tots, and the Red Cross.
Alyssa, Insurance Administrator
Alyssa is responsible for the world of dental insurance at Hines Little Smiles. She processes payments, follows up with past-due insurance claims, reviews insurance statements, identifies unclaimed funds and generates pre-determinations for parents. “I love working with people and I love math,” she says, adding, “I’m inquisitive, and have an adventurous spirit!”
Alyssa has been with Hines Little Smiles since 2011. Originally from Ashland, Alyssa now lives in Lithopolis with her husband, Aaron and daughter, Ellie who are “her hobbies, interests and entire life!” She says she entered the dental field for a new opportunity and change of scenery, and quickly came to love the people she works with, parents and patients in the practice.
Amanda, EFDA
Amanda is responsible for patient care and education, and the placement of dental restorations when needed. “I feel like I’m a perfect fit for pediatric dentistry, because I care!” she says. “I believe in good quality dental care and instilling dental hygiene habits that will last a lifetime.”
Originally from Port Charlotte, FL, Amanda now lives in Worthington, OH. She is a graduate of the Ohio State University EFDA program and continued her education in coronal polishing. She now has 19 years of experience in the dental field. “Dentistry chose me,” Amanda says. “I was offered on-the-job training at Cherry St. Health Services when I was 18 and fell in love with it!”
Amanda has 2 sons; Alec, who is 16, about to graduate high school, and heavily involved with his theater program, and Luca, who is ten, and enjoys travel and sports. She and her fiancé also have a 10 month old daughter, Amelia. “I love every minute of my busy days, both at home and at work with my second family!”
Amara, Treatment Coordinator, Marketing Team
As treatment coordinator at HLS, Amara is responsible for going over recommended treatments with patients and their parents, providing financial information, and scheduling their next visits. “I’m patient, detailed, and a people pleaser!” she says.
A Marengo, OH, native, Amara completed her dental assistant certification at Dental Assistant Pro, and followed up with certification in radiology, BLS, and CPR. She says she loved going to the dentist growing up and enjoys working at a practice that is focused on giving children the same great experiences she remembers having. “We’re a family here,” she says.
When she’s not educating children about good oral hygiene, Amara concentrates on her other passion – traveling with and showing Quarter Horses. She says the charities she is most fond of are St. Jude’s and Make A Wish – Western Wishes.
Betty, Sterile Processing Tech
Betty says she’s a perfect fit for her job because she loves cleaning instruments. She ensures every piece is properly sterilized and wrapped for the doctor to use, providing patient safety.
Originally from St. Louis, MO, Betty now lives in Whitehall, OH. She has two years of experience working in the dental industry, and says she focuses on getting the job done well and not missing days.
Betty says she loves working at HLS because everyone on staff gets along and has a good heart. “Everyone here is a people person, and they make the kids feel welcome!”
Cassidy, Call Center Specialist
As a call center specialist, Cassidy answers the phone, schedules patients, and verifies their insurance coverages. “I’m devoted to making sure I do everything in my power to make patient families feel welcome!” she says.
Cassidy lives in Groveport, OH. She says she’s always enjoyed going to the dentist, starting when she was little and then becoming more interested after having braces and seeing things get even better. “I love the people I work with, and learning more about dentistry,” she says.
When she’s not helping patients schedule their dental care, Cassidy says her family and her boyfriend are her number one priority. She enjoys being out doors, and will attend Columbus State starting in the fall of 2018.
Chanel, CDA
Chanel is devoted to making patients feel comfortable as she completes cleanings, takes digital x-rays, completes charting, and does other basic dental care tasks. “I love making children feel at ease when they come to the dentist,” she says. “No matter how nervous they are, I can reassure them and show them that coming to the dentist can be fun.”
Originally from Dayton, OH, Chanel has lived in Columbus since 2008. She attended Ohio Business College, earned her dental assisting certificate, and is currently enrolled at Clark College. “I always had a passion for dentistry, so I thought I would see what it was like to work in the field,” she says. “I started out as a dental assistant and have loved it ever since.”
When she’s not enjoying working in an environment devoted to making kids smile, Chanel can be found cooking, painting, restaurant hopping, and attending events with her husband, Jeremie, to watch their kids, Mykell and Kennedy, play sports. The family has a furbaby named Belle, and Chanel supports All-Ohio Red Basketball 2025.
Chelsee, Administrative Team Manager
As the Administrative Manager at HLS, Chelsee’s job is to oversee the daily workflow of the entire administrative team. She says being organized, able to keep a level head, and having close attention to detail make her great at her job. “It’s all about teamwork and creating a family atmosphere!”
Originally from Columbus, OH, Chelsee now lives in Etna, OH. She says she joined HLS because a great opportunity became available, and she went for it.
When she’s not managing the office so every patient gets excellent care, Chelsee spends her time scrapbooking or raising awareness for autism. Chelsee is married and has four amazing children.
Ceira, Dental Assistant
As a Dental Assistant, Ceira’s responsibilities include taking x-rays, charting treatment, and helping the doctors with patient care. “I have positive energy, terrific teamwork skills, and an unending willingness to learn and grow in my profession,” she says.
Ceira’s hometown is Walton, OH, but she now lives in Galloway, OH. She earned her dental assisting diploma 7 years ago and immediately began working in the field. “I have always had a passion for teeth, and I love making people feel better about their smile,” she says.
When she’s now encouraging patients to show off their smile, Ceira can be found spending time with her two children, going to the gym, reading, cooking, and watching America’s Got Talent and other popular shows in Hulu and Netflix. “I’m always interested in doing new things and learning about other cultures!”
Hollie, EFDA
Hollie believes her job isn’t just about helping the doctor place dental restorations, but to assist in such a way that the experience is a positive one for the children. “I love being silly and helping kids overcome their dental fears,” she says. “I have a lot of patience for them!”
Hollie is originally from Columbus, OH, but now lives in Heath. She completed her EFDA at Ohio State. Hollie has 10 years in the profession. She says she always loved going to the dentist as a child, and she wanted to help create a fun experience for other kids.
Hollie says outside of work she spends all of her time with her “sweet family”, which includes her husband, Nick, their son, Evan, and their daughter, Emery. The family enjoys travel and spending time out doors with their fur babies in tow.
Kimberlee, Surgery Center Coordinator
Kimberlee says she came to Hines Little Smiles to work with kids and deliver face to face customer service. Her front desk tasks include checking in patients, correcting balances, and verifying insurance if needed.
Originally from Pataskala, OH, Kimberlee now lives in Newark OH. She says she’s a perfect fit for working the front desk because she enjoys seeing all the different kids come through and making them feel welcome. “I love seeing kids leave with a genuine smile on their face because they had fun!”
When she isn’t ensuring kids enter and exit the office with a smile in place, Kimberlee is decorating her house in “farmhouse chic” to create a cozy home for her family and hanging out with her Australian Labradoodle. She also supports the Wounded Warrior Project.
Krystal, Accounts Receivable Specialist
Krystal’s primary responsibility is to follow up directly with insurance companies regarding payment to our office.
A Carroll, OH, native, Krystal says the dental field has always intrigued her, and she finds the innovations amazing. She is also a trained dental assistant, and says “I have a personable character, which you definitely need in this field!”
When she’s not working with kids and their parents, Krystal is spending time with her family, friends, and says she enjoys shopping and being out of doors with her dog, whom she refers to as “my fur baby!” She also supports the ASPCA.
Linda, Coronal Polisher
Linda’s job as a Coronal Polisher means being able to transition quickly from task to task as she assists, takes x-rays, performs cleanings, and stocks rooms in between patients. “I enjoy working with families and children, and caring for teeth,” she says, adding “and I like having fun!”
Linda is originally from Frazeysburg, OH, but now lives in Newark, OH. Her education has included coursework in dental assisting, radiology, coronal polishing, and orthodontics. She says some of the best things about working at HLS is how organized the office is and how compassionate the staff are. “Everyone really cares about the patients!”
When she’s not educating little ones on the importance of flossing or taking pictures of emerging teeth, Linda can be found out of doors, walking, camping or exercising, or spending time with her family, She supports her church and her community.
Madison, Call Center Specialist
Madison’s customer service background made her a perfect fit for the HLS call center when a friend told her there was a position open.
A Lancaster native, Madison is fairly new to the Hines Little Smiles team, but she already knows what her favorite part of the day is – seeing happy parents and kids!
When she’s not setting up new patient accounts and scheduling appointments, Madison enjoys hanging out with her friends and family. She also supports St. Jude Charities.
Mandy, EFDA, Marketing Team
Mandy says her duties as an EFDA are ideal for her personality and interests. “I always wanted to be a nurse since I was little,” she says. “Now I get to be a tooth nurse! Dr. Hines has provided us with an amazing office that parents and children love.”
Mandy was originally a Montessori teacher. Looking for a career change, she made the shift to working in pediatric dentistry, and now has 16 years of experience in the field. “I love working with children,” she says. “I get to sing Disney songs, wear sparkles, have fun, and be silly with kids all day. I love coming to work!”
When she’s not making children feel safe and comfortable in the dental chair, Mandy can be found volunteering at her daughter’s school, or crafting, sewing, and painting. She also volunteers with Give Kids a Smile.
Renada, Dental Assistant, Coronal Polisher
Renada is always busy, helping with patient care chair-side, charting, taking x-rays, or completing coronal polishing. “I have a fascination with teeth, and love seeing my patients get through their appointment and realize it was no big deal,” she says.
Renada is from Pataskala, OH, and has been with the Hines Little Smiles family for seven years. She has completed dental assisting school and may continue her education in the years to come. “I have a great boss, I love coming to work every day, I love the kids, and I’m so glad I work in such a happy place,” she says.
When she’s not making sure the kids have great smiles, Renada can be found enjoying her time away from the office with her husband, and the couple’s son, Jaxon.
Renajia, Clinical Manager, Registered Dental Hygienist, EFDA
As an RDH, EFDA and the practice’s clinical manager, Renajia stays extremely busy in the practice. She both oversees the clinical team while also completing her duties as a dental hygienist and EFDA. She takes and processes radiographs, applies fluoride treatments and sealants, places dental restorations and educates her pediatric patients on nutrition and oral hygiene.
Originally from Toledo, OH, Renajia now resides in Blacklick, OH. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene, her Master’s in Dental Hygiene and completed her EFDA training at The Ohio State University. She says she always knew she wanted to help people and work with children, so pediatric dentistry is the perfect fit for her. “I absolutely love keeping little smiles happy!”, she says.
When she’s not teaching children to love and be excited about dental visits, Renajia can be found spending quality time with her husband, Michael, and the couple’s two children, Makynlei and Maisyn, or participating in church activities.
Roderick, Dental Assistant and Coronal Polisher
Rod says the best thing about Hines Little Smiles is the practice’s fast pace and the entire staff’s love for children. “I love the fun atmosphere we create for kids and their families,” he says, adding, “I enjoy working with kids of all ages, and helping them be comfortable at the dentist.”
A Columbus native, Rod has over a decade of experience in the profession and holds EMT license from Columbus State as well as a CDA license from the Academy of Health Sciences. He says he ended up in the dental profession by way of the U.S. Army and his time spent as an EMT.
In his spare time, Rod enjoys fishing, cooking, and riding bikes with his wife. Rod is a Freemason and volunteers with the organization See Kids Dream as well as being a blood donor for the Red Cross.
Shannon, Lead Surgery Assistant
Shannon’s role at Hines Little Smiles is to assist the dentists with full mouth rehabilitations done under anesthesia. She has 20 years of experience working with general anesthesia patients, both at a children’s hospital and in oral surgery, and says, “Working with children has always been my passion!”
Shannon is originally from Cleveland, but now lives in Canal Winchester. She went to Cleveland Heights Dental Assisting School and followed that with EMT training at Columbus State Community College. “I love working with, educating, and helping people understand the importance of oral hygiene!”
When she’s not compassionately helping patients through surgery, Shannon enjoys singing, supporting anything to do with ending juvenile diabetes, and loves spending time with her first grandchild.
Sierra, Dental Assistant and Coronal Polisher
As a dental assistant and coronal polisher, Sierra takes x-rays, applies sealants, polishes teeth, and assists the doctors during exams.
A Lancaster, OH, native, Sierra attended the Fairfield Career Center for Dental Assisting. She’s been working in the dental industry for four years and says that the practice feels like a big family. “I love working with kids. They say the cutest and funniest things!”
Sierra says the first thing she notices about people is their smile, and she knew she always wanted to make people feel better about their smile. When she’s not hard at work to accomplish that goal, Sierra loves spending time out doors with her dog.
Tanya, EFDA
Tanya describes her job as assisting in placing restorations once the dentist has removed the “sugar bugs!” She says she entered the dental field to help make smiles brighter. “I love making kids happy!”
A Grove City, OH native, Tanya has completed education in coronal polishing, and earned her DANB, EFDA, and radiographers license. She’s been in the dental field for 19 years, and says, “Our office is family!”
When she’s not dealing with the after-effects of “sugar bugs,” Tanya enjoys camping and sewing. She also supports the Stowe Mission Dental Clinic.
Susan, Registered Dental Hygienist
Registered Dental Hygienist Susan refers to herself humorously as a “brushing, flossing, tooth picker extraordinaire!” She says being a pop star didn’t work out, but that’s OK. “I graduated first in my class at Columbus State Dental Hygiene, so I had something to fall back on!” she laughs.
The Greenville, North Carolina transplant now lives in Hilliard, Ohio, and has been working in the dental field for more than six years now. “I love the team and atmosphere at the practice, but most importantly I love the kids,” she says, adding that her energy and teamwork skills make her a great fit for her job.
When she’s not making sure each child’s dental hygiene experience is the best it can be, Susan is spending time with her own kids or reading, exercising, playing sports, or other “outdoor stuff.” She supports the YMCA.
Jacey, Front Desk Administrator
Front desk administrator Jacey helps where she is needed, sometimes scheduling, often checking people in and out and collecting payments. “I’m upbeat, have a big heart, and love smiling!” she says, adding that sometimes a conversation with a child can make both of their days better.
Originally from Carroll, Ohio, Jacey now lives in Lancaster, Ohio. She graduated from Bloom Carroll High School and is planning to pursue a degree in dental hygiene. “It’s always been an interest, of mine!” she says. When she’s not enjoying her tasks at the practice, Jacey is baking, reading, or having fun with her family and her dog. She supports Autism Awareness, St. Jude, and the Boys and Girls Club of America.
Savannah, Front Desk
Savannah takes her front desk duties seriously, helping out as needed. She says she began working at the practice to expand her knowledge about dental work, adding that she loves the amazing team, patients and parents. “I adore children, and like to learn new things and push myself,” she says.
Savannah was born in Pickerington, Ohio, and now lives in Canal Winchester, Ohio. She’s a recent high school graduate and loves both childcare and animal care. “My dream is to one day have a personal farm,” she says. Savannah supports St. Jude and the Make a Wish Foundation.
Jennifer, RDH, EFDA
As a Registered Dental Hygienist, Jennifer stays busy taking x-rays, scaling and polishing teeth, applying fluoride and sealants, and teaching kids how to take care of their own teeth at home. She says the best part of her day is seeing children’s happy smiles!
Originally from Galion, Ohio, Jennifer now lives in Mansfield, Ohio. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene and also competed her EFDA training at Ohio State University. Jennifer has been working in the dental industry for over a year, now, and says she loves how the practice is its own little family.
When she’s not making children smile, Jennifer can be found spending time with family, friends, and her beloved dog, Joey. She enjoys traveling and the great outdoors.
Herbert, Operations Manager
As Operations Manager for Hines Little Smiles, Herbert is in charge of facility management, life safety, human resources, and any other tasks that might be required on the operational side of the practice.
Originally from Cleveland Heights, OH, Herbert now lives in Westerville, OH. He says he chose to join HLS for a new challenge, and that being willing and able to fill in the blanks and help where he is needed makes him a valuable addition to the team. “We have a unique family environment, and everyone is very compassionate and united by their desire to help children,” he says.
When Herbert isn’t managing the facility and making sure team members have what they need at HLS, he can be found spending free time with his wife and children, or enjoying the outdoors while golfing, camping, or riding his Harley.