Kristy – HR Director
I joined our practice in March 2022. I graduated from Minnesota School of Business with an associate in applied science degree in health and exercise sciences. I worked in the health care field for 22 years prior to my career change in the dental field. My background includes front desk management, workflow analysis, staff education and development. I am passionate about caring for others and having a positive uplifting approach to those around me. The things I enjoy most in my free time are exercise, being outdoors any time, I am able, spending time with family and friends, crafting, decorating, and traveling.
Sarah – Dental Hygienist
Sarah has been with Amber Leaf Family Dental for 23 years and plays an integral part to the team as both a dental assistant and dental hygienist. She believes the best part of Amber Leaf is connecting with every patient and being a part of a team that is like a family. Sarah is married to her husband, Attilla, of 22 years, and they have two sons, Charlie and Nick. When away from work, she loves to spend time with her family and her two dogs. Sarah is an animal lover!
Dorina – Dental Assistant
Dorina has been a Dental Assistant at Amber Leaf since 2014. She was born in Eastern Europe, the Republic of Moldova, and moved to Minnesota with her parents in 2008. Dorina’s love for dentistry began while still living in Moldova when a missionary team from Germany provided dental care to her grandma’s village. The passion for dentistry shown from the missionary team left a lasting impression on Dorina. She received her Dental Assistant degree from Hennepin Technical College. Outside of working at Amber Leaf, Dorina loves traveling, camping, snowboarding, four-wheeling, and spending time with her family.
Sam – Business Manager
Sam is the Business Manager at Amber Leaf. He attended the University of Minnesota and left college early for a career in professional basketball where he played for the L.A. Lakers, Golden State Warriors, and Minnesota Timberwolves. He also played basketball for several years in Europe while living in Greece, Italy, and France. In 2007, Sam retired from basketball and returned to Carlson School of Management to complete his finance degree through the University of Minnesota. He enjoys being part of the Amber Leaf Family Dental team because of how well the team supports each other and cares about their patients. When Sam is not working, he is either spending time with his wife and three children, or meditating by completing improvement projects around the home.
Claire – Dental Hygienist
Claire joined our practice in August 2023. Graduated from Rochester Community and Technical College in 2021 with an associate in applied science in dental hygiene. A bit about Claire in her own words, ” I enjoy the flexible and friendly atmosphere that each office I work in is able to create. I contribute to the success of our practices to each individual who works together there to provide a stellar patient experience and high standard of care. . I enjoy video games, boating, and playing the violin.”
Nikki – Dental Hygienist
Dental Hygienist, embarked on her professional journey in 2000, later earning her bachelor degree through Minnesota State University- Mankato in 2017. Nikki loves networking with and mentoring other dental professionals and has helped to grow the largest social dental network, showcasing her commitment to continuous learning and excellence in healthcare. What Nikki appreciates most about our practice is the camaraderie within the team, the flexibility offered, and the diverse range of experiences it provides.
Nikki is not just a healthcare professional; she is a cornerstone of our practice’s success. Her approach centers on making every patient feel valued, treating them as if they were her own family. This personalized care fosters a positive (and oftentimes silly) atmosphere, contributing significantly to the practice’s thriving environment.
Outside of her professional life, Nikki finds joy in her family, including her husband and two daughters—both sophomores, one in college and the other in high school. When not attending to patients, she immerses herself in hobbies such as live music events, watching and rewatching her favorite movies, and indulging in outdoor activities like paddle boarding, hiking, and cabin time. Nikki’s life is further enriched by her two dogs, Moose and Stella!
Michael – Dental Float
Meet Michael, our dental float with a passion for dentistry. Currently working towards becoming a dentist, he believes one of the best parts about being a dental float is gaining invaluable experience when working side-by-side with the Amber Leaf Family Dental and connecting with patients, creating a positive experience for all of our patients. Beyond the dental clinic, Michael enjoys solo backpacking, photography, skiing, and listening to music.
Nikki – Dental Assistant
Nikki started with the practice a little over 2 years ago. In Nikki’s words – “I enjoy the variety that dental assisting provides. This industry is ever so changing, and it is exciting to see and be a part of the progression. Patient care is very important to me and being a part of a team that is flexible and growing makes for a good day.”
Dee – Licensed Dental Assistant
Dee earned her LDA Diploma from Herzing University in December 2018. She enjoys traveling, eating good food, shopping, having fun with her 5-year-old son and spending time with friends and family.
Cailyn – Licensed Dental Assistant
Cailyn graduated from Hennepin Technical College with her associate’s in dental assisting in spring of 2024. She enjoys working out, baking and going to the beach. She also claims to have the cutes cat in the world whose name is Fish.
Beckie – Licensed Dental Assistant
Has been in the dental industry for more than 20 years. She brings a great deal of experience and expertise to our team. In her free time, she enjoys live music and spending time with friends and family.
Julie
Graduated from Minneapolis Community and Technical College with her associate’s degree in 2015. She started her career as a Dental Assistant and transitioned to the business side and has spent 6+ years as a patient care coordinator. Outside of work she enjoys traveling, reading, hikes with her dog.
Savannah B – Float
I graduated from Robbinsdale Copper High School. I enjoy playing and coaching volleyball.
