OUR STAFF




Joleen - Orthodontic Assistant
Joleen has 9 years experience in orthodontics. Her great technical skills and sunny disposition help put patients at ease. When Joleen is not at work, she stays busy by enjoying her mini-farm, which we affectionately call Joleen's Ark. She has 2 horses (plus one miniature horse), 2 dogs, 2 cats, 2 chickens and 2 rabbits. Whew ! Besides all that, she enjoys time with her family and still has plenty of energy for work.

Unfortunately, Joleen is on extended leave following an accident during the December 14th wind storm that kept her in Harborview Hospital until February 7th. A huge tree virtually leveled her big orange truck and left her with a broken neck, broken back and paralyzed from the waist down. We are hopeful that she might be in the 10% that can recover some motion - if that 10% has anything to do with pure spirit and a positive outlook Joleen will make it ! Our thoughts and prayers are with her as she continues this long journey of recovery and adjusts to her life that has been so abruptly changed.


David - Dental Hygienist
David, our dental hygienist, has been a hygienist for 5 years. He graduated from Western Washington University in 1995 with a BS in Biology and then went on to Hygiene School and graduated in 2001. David loves the outdoors and his free time is often spent fishing, camping, or hiking - anything that lets him enjoy nature. He also takes wonderful pictures and has shared some great shots from his outdoor adventures and his travels to faraway places. He also enjoyed just hanging out with family and friends. As to his favorite part about working here and in this field, David says "It's all about the people!"
Cassandra- Ortho/Perio Assistant
Cassandra came to us with primarily a periodontal background and has been receiving her orthodontic training on the job here. She is a quick learner and works seamlessly with Meary and Joleen in the clinical area, making certain things run smoothly. Cassandra's energy and quick wit help us all move through the day. In her free time, she is busy being young !

Helen - Clinical Coordinator
With over 20 years of dental experience ranging from oral surgery and periodontic and orthodontic assisting, Helen's expertise keeps everything together clinically. She is generally the first clinical staff you will meet here as a new patient and is well equipped to answer all of your questions. At home, Helen stays busy with her family. With four sons, two who are still at home (and are active teenagers) that keeps her going well past her hours here. Helen loves meeting new patients and educating them on what can be done at our office with orthodontic treatment, periodontal treatment or a combination of both. You're in good hands with Helen !

Debbie - Surgical Coordinator
Another veteran in the dental field, Debbie has been working with dental patients for over 20 years, starting her profession as a dental assistant. If you are coming in for a consultation, chances are you will meet Debbie. She will be able to answer your questions and guide you through the process to make you feel comfortable and informed about your treatment at our office. You will often hear her laughter rippling through the clinic as her warm personality livens up any consultation. Debbie enjoys seeing the dramatic results that often occur in our clinic once treatment is complete, because of the wonderful relationships that we are able to build with our patients.

Compassion is Debbie's passion!


Virginia - Office Manager
Virginia came to this practice 8 years ago, after spending over 20 years in the field of restorative dentistry. The combination of Dr. Carlson's orthodontic and periodontal practice gave new life to what has become a career in the dental field. She works side by side with Helen, Debbie and Jeanne to keep the office running smoothly. Virginia's favorite part about working here is being a part of such a unique practice, led by a doctor who is so passionate and skilled. She truly appreciates everyone's contribution to creating a fun and productive work environment. Outside of work, it's all about family (including grand dogs), friends and enjoying life. "Carpe Diem!" is her motto.

Karen, Surgical Assistant
Karen began her 26 year career in dentistry in 1980 with Dr. Carlson. She still loves it. Because good dental health and a beautiful smile are so important to a person's well being, it has been rewarding for Karen to assist Dr. Carlson as he applies the latest techniques and to ensure his patients receive the highest quality of periodontal and orthodontic treatment possible. Karen's other pleasures include four grown sons and their families, travel, reading, history, art, cooking and gardening. Life is good !

Cheri - In House Lab Technologist
Cheri has been working with Dr. Carlson since 1983, just a few years after graduating from college. Over the years, Cheri has become an outstanding technologist. Part of her expertise has come from keeping up with all of the new developments in the dental laboratory, including equipment and materials. Additionally, because Cheri is able to clinically observe what works, she creates appliances that are truly a cut above the rest! Very few orthodontists have a lab technologist on site and we are extremely fortunate to have Cheri here fabricating appliances for orthodontic work as well as periodontal procedures. Cheri takes this same creative energy to other phases of her life and does stained glass pieces, gardens, cooks and enjoys a busy schedule with her family and friends.