Quarterly Newsletter_2026_Q2

Q2 2026 Recap

Your quarterly roundup of team wins, patient stories, and everything happening at our practices

17 Practices and Growing!

Happily, Ever After!

Dr.

Dr. Alex Rial recently said “I Do” on June 6th

Dr. Lindsey Duncan was recently married on April 19th

Dr.

On May 22,

Oh Baby, Baby!

Bailey from Starkville Dental is due with a baby boy in July!

Dr. Abby Washburn is expecting a baby boy July 23!

Haley from Starkville Dental welcomed a baby boy, Bode back in March.

Abi Sullivan from Forest Lake Dental welcomed her son, Casey in April.

Dr. Lynch gave birth to a baby boy, Ryles Lynch on May 19th!

Dr. Roth and husband are expecting a little one on December 3.

Dr. Cameron and Dr. Lane Hynum are expecting in November!

Dr. Patel is expecting a baby girl November 12th!

Other Life Events

Lead Assistant, Allison Munoz is celebrating her twin daughters, Saide and Sophia making cheerleading squad. She is also celebrating high school graduation with her son, Kaden!

Dr. Flanagan's sons, Benjamin and Jack finished their little league baseball season.

Congratulations to Shasta's daughter, Angelina, on graduating from Itawamba Community College! During her time there, she was a cheerleader and will be attending Ole Miss this fall to major in Law Studies.

Ashley Swift and her boyfriend, Zach, became new homeowners in May!

Machelle Steffen's daughter is jumping for excitement – she’s working at Walt Disney World in their Disney College Program. Machelle's family is also celebrating her son's recent engagement and upcoming wedding later this year.

Work Anniversaries

1 year:

Nahriah Connor

Lindsey Webster

Julia Helton

Christina Moore

Kayla Akins

Ali Red

Selena Groner

Savannah Clever

Abigale Sullivan

Tybrina Cole

Elizabeth Thompson

Carly Hummel

Shakya Valentine

Kimberly Wells

Kirsten Truett

Richie Keel

Shaquila Buckley

TaMyia Logan

Monserrat Valencia-Luna

Machelle Steffen

Alecia Cleveland

Katherine Roth

Jamia Myles

2 years:

Susan Cosby

Savanna Bell

Mackenzie Bond

Amber Raynor

Cayla Roberson

Katlyn Riggs

Carlie Klepzig

3 years:

Emma Roberts

Morgan Turner

Keri Walker

Katarena Cox

Emma Satava

4 years:

Rachel Farrar

Julia Gonzalez

Gabby Cox

5 years:

Robyn Pickell

10 years:

Hannah Deavours

Birthdays

April Birthdays:

Anna Bird

Bethany Walters

Chloe Upchurch

Christina Hammock

Christopher Hynum

Emma Satava

Gisselle Pena Tiznado

Kadeja Stewart

Katherine House

Katherine Roth

Kathryne Thompson

Lauren Thacker

Lindsey Helton

Morgan Bloodworth

Shelby Jackson

Sontina Brewer

May Birthdays: June Birthdays:

Alexis Cox

Bailey Lawrence

Carly Hummel

Cayla Roberson

Elly Burrows

Esmeralda Figueroa

Jamie Wales

Jean Carpenter

Jenna Inskeep

Jennifer Pierron

Julia Jacobi

Kaci Richardson

Katlyn Riggs

Kimberly Turner

Kirsten Truett

Linda Aron

Lindley Rivers

Miranda Frasher

Mitzi Lane

Moesha Gray

Robin Israel

Ryan Sankari

Samuel Bianco

Sarah Autwell

Shaquila Buckley

Shelly James

Tabitha Pierce

Allison Pickel

Cynthia Howard

Hailey Mills

Haley Franks

Jack Smalley

Jennifer Babcock

Karlie Potts

Kaye Dreifuerst

Kylee Flynn

Lindsey Webster

Madison Norwood

Melissa Breckenridge

Michael Baugus

Nahriah Connor

Robert Mallory

Robin Hopkins

Samantha Vasquez

Shawna Winchester

Tabatha Wells

Tanevery Williams

Virginia Flanders

Team Updates

New Hires

Forest Lake Dental:

Kaylee Torres, Dental Assistant

Shelly James, Front Desk Coordinator

Starkville Dental:

Maryann Hammock, Dental Hygienist

Addie Smith, Dental Hygienist

Batesville Dental:

Haleigh Nunnely, Dental Assistant

Bright Smiles:

Kelsey Eads, Patient Care Coordinator

Jennifer Dudley, Dental Assistant

Jenna Bowen, Front Desk Coordinator

Ashlee McDonald, Dental Hygienist

Megan Rodriguez, Dental Hygienist

Robin Warren, Dental Hygienist

Oxford:

Brittany, Business Team Member

Madison, Dental Hygienist

Mallory Gossett, Dental Assistant

Kristen Farmer

Forest Lake Dental:

Kaylee Torres, Dental Assistant

Premier Dental:

Mattie Simms, Patient Care Coordinator

Anna Bird, Dental Assistant

Haley Cook, Dental Assistant

Kelly Howell, Dental Assistant

Dr. Alex Rial

Helena Dental:

Allison Dimas Damaso, Dental Assistant

Promotions

Forest Lake Dental:

Erin Marshall, Hygiene Team Lead

Oxford:

Kristen Farmer, Schedule Coordinator

Premier:

Gabby Cox moved from Assistant to Business Team. She is our second schedule coordinator!

Welcome New Doctors!

Practice Wins & Performance

• Dr. Lynch at Life Dental Oxford hit a production record in April of $154,507!

• Amberly Nelson at Life Dental Oxford also hit a production record for hygiene of $30,276.

This is a personal and overall office record for a hygienist!

• Batesville Dental hit their production goal for the first time in a year!

• Dr. Stokes at Bright Smiles Columbus hit his personal best with $10,193 in a single day!

North

Patient Goal Attainment

MAY

Dental North River Dental Colony Dental Huntsville Dental Life Dental Oxford North Alabama Dental

North River Dental Premier Dental

JUNE

Dental

Huntsville Dental Premier Dental

Life Dental Oxford

North Alabama Dental

North River Dental

Practice Spotlight

Vestavia Dental and Dr. Sarah Flanagan

At Vestavia Dental, creating healthy smiles is just part of the mission. The team is passionate about building lasting relationships, delivering exceptional care, and being an active part of the community they serve. Under the leadership of Dr. Sarah Flanagan, the practice combines clinical excellence with a welcoming, family-focused atmosphere where patients feel genuinely cared for.

A Birmingham native, Dr. Flanagan discovered her passion for dentistry during a pre-dental externship at UAB while attending BirminghamSouthern College. Inspired by her mother's encouragement and drawn to the blend of science, artistry, and problem-solving, she knew dentistry was the perfect fit.

After 19 years in practice, including 11 years as an associate and eight years as a practice owner, Dr. Flanagan joined Vestavia Dental through Life Dental Group. The opportunity to practice close to home while partnering with an organization that values clinical excellence, growth, and a positive culture made it an easy decision.

"I want every patient to feel heard and understand all of their treatment options. My goal is for patients to leave knowing they received excellent dental care while experiencing the positive energy of our team."

That team culture is what Dr. Flanagan believes truly sets Vestavia Dental apart. She describes it in three words: positive, accountable, and growth-minded. While the team works hard to provide outstanding dentistry, they also support one another and enjoy what they do creating an environment that patients can feel the moment they walk through the door.

Vestavia Dental is equally committed to serving the community beyond the office. From sponsoring Battle of the Bands, I Love America Night, Haunt the Hills, and local high school football events to partnering with the Vestavia Chamber of Commerce and Rocky Ridge Merchants Society, the team enjoys giving back to the families they care for every day.

"We want to be more than just a place that fixes teeth we want to be a positive part of our community. It's important that our patients know we care about them beyond their dental appointments."

Outside the office, Dr. Flanagan enjoys spending time with her husband, Brian, and their two sons, Benjamin and Jack. Whether they're traveling, cheering on Alabama football, or hosting friends on game day, family is at the center of everything they do.

Looking ahead, Dr. Flanagan is excited to continue building on the strong foundation the team has created while growing Vestavia Dental's reputation as a trusted dental home for the community.

"I'm most proud of how our team has come together, embraced change, and built such a positive culture. We're committed to providing an exceptional patient experience while continuing to grow together."

At Vestavia Dental, that commitment extends beyond healthy smiles it's about creating meaningful relationships, supporting the community, and helping every patient feel at home.

Team Member Spotlight

Amber Raynor of Batesville Dental

For the past 16 years, dentistry has been more than a career it's been a passion. After joining Life Dental Group two years ago, she quickly made an impact through her dedication to patients, leadership, and team culture. In just 10 months at Batesville Dental, she was promoted to Business Manager, a milestone she describes as both inspiring and motivating.

“Dentistry has always been a passion of mine. I love helping people feel confident about their smiles while creating a positive patient experience.”

As Business Manager, no two days are ever the same. From supporting both the business and clinical teams to coordinating schedules and ensuring the office runs smoothly, she thrives in the fast-paced environment. When asked what motivates her every day, the answer is simple: making a positive difference.

Building a Winning Team

She describes the Batesville Dental team in three words: compassionate, enthusiastic, and hard-working, and believes their success comes down to one essential element teamwork. She also believes encouragement and recognition are key to building a strong, supportive environment and takes pride in the growth of each team member.

“I love seeing us all win. Celebrating both the small and big victories is one of the most rewarding parts of my job.”

Treating Patients

Like Family

Creating lasting relationships with patients is at the heart of everything she does. She believes trust is built through honesty, empathy, and genuine care from the moment patients walk through the door.

“We greet every patient with a smile, make them feel welcome, and treat them like family. We want every person to know how honored we are that they've trusted us with their dental care.”

Bringing Personality to the Practice

If you follow Batesville Dental on social media, you've probably noticed plenty of laughter behind the scenes and that's intentional.

“Our patients love seeing us have fun. Being authentic helps people connect with us and builds trust long before they ever walk through our doors.”

Her advice to other practices? “Have fun, be authentic, inspire, and educate. You don't always have to be so serious!”

The team's positive Google reviews are another source of motivation.

“We print our reviews and hang them around the office. They remind us that the work we do every day truly makes a difference.”

Her team describes her as graceful, positive, approachable, and bubbly—qualities she credits to leading with kindness and compassion. That same openness carries into her patient relationships as well.

Beyond the Office

“I’m an open book, so my patients normally walk away knowing (probably) too much about me! LOL.” Outside of work, she's happiest spending time with her husband and three children. Whether she's reading a good book, bingewatching a favorite show, or cooking and baking for her family, those moments help recharge her for another busy week.

Team Member Spotlight

Maria Shirley of Daily Dental Spring Hill

Maria began her dental career as a Registered Dental Assistant in 2012 before becoming an Expanded Functions Dental Assistant in 2016. In 2021, she achieved her goal of becoming a dental hygienist, bringing years of clinical experience and patient care to every appointment. Since joining Daily Dental Spring Hill in 2018, she's become a trusted provider, mentor, and leader who has helped guide both patients and teammates through years of growth and change.

What continues to inspire her is seeing patients realize that it's never too late to improve their oral health and believes every patient deserves personalized care built on honesty, compassion, and trust.

“My favorite patients are the ones who think their smile is a lost cause. Walking alongside them through their dental journey and watching them become happy, smiling, confident people—that's why I love what I do. I want every patient to feel confident that they're receiving the best care for their individual needs. We meet patients where they are and work together to get them where they want to be.”

Leading Through Growth

Over the years, Maria has been an important part of Daily Dental Spring Hill's growth, including helping patients navigate the practice's ownership transition with empathy and reassurance. She believes the practice's continued success comes down to one thing: an unwavering commitment to patient care.

Working alongside Dr. Tilley for more than 13 years has also been a defining part of her career. As a leader, Maria enjoys mentoring teammates and helping them grow professionally. She encourages new team members to embrace learning and never fear making mistakes.

“Nobody is perfect. We all make mistakes. Everything is fixable, and we're always learning and growing.”

A Team That Never Gives Up

She describes the Daily Dental Spring Hill team in one word: persistent. Their shared dedication, humor, and willingness to support one another create an environment where both patients and team members can thrive.

Outside the office, Maria and her husband of 17 years are proud parents to three boys, ages 17, 12, and 3. On weekends, you'll likely find her at the gym, spending time with her family, or enjoying a well-earned nap. Her go-to coffee order? Espresso blended into a chocolate protein shake.

Looking Ahead

Looking ahead, Maria is excited about the continued growth of the practice and the opportunities ahead for both the team and their patients.

“My goal is simple to continue growing together, serve our patients well, and help build an even stronger team for the future.”

Community Involvement

On June 23, Bright Smiles had a Kids Day where they served popcorn and had fun activities for kids of all ages

Vestavia Dental was a VIP sponsor at the 8th annual Battle of the Bands competition for middle school and high school students and participated in “I Love America Night” where they served up snow cones!

Smiles participated in a health fair

Patient Experience & Reviews

4.9

Avg. Rating

Featured Reviews

11,255

Starkville Dental:

Patients surprised the staff in Oxford with Birdhouse gift cards after having such a great first appointment.

“I had an amazing experience! The service was exceptional from start to finish. Everything was explained in great detail, and the treatment plan was laid out in a way that was clear, thorough, and easy to understand. I truly appreciated how transparent and organized the process was. Highly recommend!”

North River:

“Definitely the nicest office I've been to. I've never felt more comfortable! Excited to make this my primary dentist office and fix my smile. Thank you for your kindness!”

Bright Smiles:

“Ok, so I am very afraid of the dentist and I told them. They totally made me feel comfortable and explained everything they were doing and took their time with me!!!! So excited for this journey to getting my smile back!!! I can’t remember the young lady who did my x-rays but she was so sweet!!”

Did you know? Over 43% of new patients are a patient referral / word of mouth!

Oxford:

“From checking in, being greeted by name to checking out or merely just passing you while walking to a room, you are treated as a priority.”

Helena:

“I've been seeing Dr. Mallory for over 25 years. He and his staff have always been unwavering with their concern for any procedure or questions I've had. He and his staff make you feel like family.”

Belle Meade:

“As a new patient, I've visited this dental practice twice recently—once for a cleaning and initial exam, and once for a filling—and both experiences were excellent. Payton and the team were very thorough during my first appointment, which included a comprehensive set of X-rays and a detailed review of my dental health. I needed two fillings, and Dr. Patel and Adison made the process comfortable and stressfree. Everyone I interacted with was incredibly friendly, professional, and efficient. It's clear that patient care is a priority here. Based on my experiences so far, I highly recommend this practice!”

Social Media

Fresh Breath Day (August 6)

Smile Week (August 9-15)

Align Your Teeth Day (August 11) Lefthanders Day (August 13)

Tooth Fairy Day (August 22)

Colors Day (August 29)

(September 19)

Recent Trainings

Recent Trainings

Office Fun & Culture

Upcoming Events & Recruiting

Upcoming Events

July 22-24

July 29-31

RDH Leads and PCC Workshop

The Perfect Patient Journey

New Hire Orientation and Doctor Training

Starting Strong and Leading Clinical Excellence

We're Hiring!

July 31-Aug 1

Dentist Continuing Education

Aug 19-21

Aug 26-28

Scheduling Coordinators

Driving Practice Success

Dental Assistants

Elevating Clinical Excellence

Jan 21-23 The Summit

Know someone great? Refer them and earn a $1,200 bonus!

Registered Dental Hygienist Full-Time

Colony Dental, Madison, MS

Southern Family, Byram, MS

Helena Dental/Vestavia Dental, Birmingham, AL Area

Dental Assistant

Bright Smiles, Columbus, MS

River City Dental, Montgomery, AL

Huntsville Dental, Huntsville, AL

Business Team Full-Time

Bright Smiles, Columbus, MS

Huntsville Dental, Huntsville, AL

Daily Dental Spring Hill, Spring Hill, TN

Referral Program

2025 Referral Program Winner: Carli Rodgers, RDH

Carli, a Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) at Premier Dental in Tupelo, MS, has made an incredible impact in just one year with Life Dental Group! Not only did she earn the $5,000 bonus for the most referrals in the entire company, but she also brought four of her friends on board to join the Life Dental family an amazing accomplishment!

And she’s not slowing down anytime soon… Carli is already kicking off 2026 strong with two additional referrals! Way to go, Carli—your dedication, positivity, and team spirit truly make a difference!

Remember: You can earn a $1,200 bonus when you refer someone to Life Dental Group! For more details, contact Allie Slavik.

Advisory Board

2026 / 2027 Members

Advisory Board Term

We will rotate Members on and off the Board annually in a fashion not to have 100% turnover. For the first year, we will randomly choose who will serve one versus two years.

Meeting Frequency & Format

We will meet quarterly via Video Conference. In advance of each meeting, we will provide an agenda of topics which will be openly discussed, seeking your input and professional opinions. Additionally, we welcome any items or initiatives that you feel should be added to the agenda for discussion. Please submit an idea or area of focus to Jeff Hand.

First Meeting Date

Wednesday, July 22 | 5:15 CST

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