Meet The Staff
Our Reception, Insurance & Billing Staff
Melissa
I was born and raised here in Santa Rosa and have worked in our office since 2001. I am lucky to have great coworkers and patients as an added bonus.
My Husband and I have a son and daughter who have enjoyed mountain biking and horseback riding as their favorite activities for many years now.
I commute to work by bike and enjoy riding my mountain bike in Annadel whenever time allows.
I enjoy coaching for the Annadel Composite mountain bike team for 3+ years, watching the kids learn and progress in mountain biking is greatly rewarding. For the last few years I have been on the local women’s race team, Hello Mellow and have 30 + like minded awesome female riders to ride bikes with. Our team does tons of community volunteering including our Hella Joy rides monthly. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, walking our dog Keeko, thrift shopping & hiking.
Anja
I was born and raised in a small town near Bonn, Germany.
After graduating from college, I took the risk and moved to Los Angeles. There, I worked in the travel industry for several years before my husband and I relocated to Santa Rosa. In 2003, I joined the wonderful staff of this great office as an office assistant.
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, taking our dog for long walks, volunteering for Canine Companions, various sports and much more.
Julie
I started in dentistry in 1982 and have worked in and around this field ever since. I joined Dr. Ford’s team in 2020. I have enjoyed being a part of a practice that is dedicated to excellent patient care and truly cares about our patients!
I was born and raised in Healdsburg and currently live in the Larkfield area. My husband and I have two beautiful daughters. When I am not working I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I like cake decorating, baking and volunteer work.
Dental Hygienists
Cheryl
My name is Cheryl. I am one of the two hygienists in our office.
I received a B.S. in Biology from Sonoma State University and a B.S. in Dental Hygiene from UCSF. I have been fortunate to work in this office for over 30 years.
I am married and have two adult children. I’m hopeful that my family will grow in the near future!!
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, gardening and home projects, exercising and the outdoors, attending food and wine events. Shopping is great, also!
Jenny
I graduated from the dental hygiene program at the SRJC. I have been a registered dental hygienist since 2010. I feel grateful to have found a career that I truly love.
When I am not working, I can be found whipping up new recipes at home or camping with my husband and our dog Endo.
Dental Assistants
Larae
Larae was born and raised in Sonoma County and is grateful to call this beautiful area home. Larae started working in the dental field in 2009 and liked it so much that she continued on to received her RDA license in 2012. She has a passion for dentistry and really finds it fulfilling to help patients with their healthy smiles. Larae joined our team in 2017 and has taken on the role as lead assistant. You will often find Larae conversing with our patients and making them feel at ease. Whether it’s that sweet smile or a kind word Larae is always there to make you feel comfortable and cared for.
When not at the office, Larae enjoys gardening, walking/hiking, and baking. She also loves spending quality time with her husband and two cavalier pups, Milo and Lucy.
Jennifer
Jen’s journey in the dental field began with her graduation from SRJC as a dental assistant. Throughout her entire career, she has remained dedicated to a single dental office, where her unwavering commitment to patient care shines through. Jen’s passion lies in providing individuals with the opportunity to express their desires for dental care and assisting them in achieving the best possible outcomes. Her aspiration to continue growing in the dental field is a testament to her drive and ambition. Having lived in sonoma county her entire life, Jenn shares her journey with her long term boyfriend, creating a strong foundation in her local community.
Lily
Lily’s passion for the dental field is evident in the meticulous care she extends to both her patients and her staff, ensuring their safety and health are always at the forefront of her practice. Residing in the serene Sonoma County with her daughter and husband, Lily’s life is a blend of personal fulfillment and professional ambition. Her competitive spirit, honed through playing college lacrosse, now finds a new outlet as she diligently pursues further education. With aspirations to become a dental assistant EF and later an implant coordinator, Lily is committed to a path of lifelong learning and service, driven by a deep desire to contribute positively to the world of dental health.