Tara
Hi! My name is Tara and I’m a dental hygienist! I have been at Smile Studios since 2022. I’m Persian but grew up here in Kirkland. I have a BS in Biology from University of Washington-Seattle and I continued my studies at PIMA- Northgate for dental hygiene.
Outside the office I love working out and trying new things! My husband and I have recently started playing pickleball and love it! I also love to hang out with family, friends, and my dog Duke!
I grew up with a lot of dental anxiety myself. I also have medical anxiety. I understand first hand the fear. With that understanding, I can help patients with my own personal tips and tricks to get through appointments! I’ve got lots of tricks up my sleeve and people are always surprised by how well they work!
My job is made easier by the assistants at our office, Alex and Nakari. They are always so willing to help and make sure the office is fully functioning and we don’t fall behind our schedule. This overall improves all of our work days and our patient’s experiences at the office. They just make everything better!
Be confident! Every smile is beautiful! And if something is holding you back from full confidence… let us know and we can help you!
Cassie
Hi, I’m Cassie! I’m a Registered Dental Hygienist here at Smile Studios. I’m passionate about helping our patients achieve healthy, confident smiles in a comfortable setting.
When I’m not at the clinic, you can find me taking group fitness classes, playing pickleball with friends, or enjoying time at the park with my husband and our dog.
I strive to create a calm, judgment-free environment for everyone who sits in my chair. My favorite moments are when patients feel comfortable enough to trust me and ask plenty of questions about their care.
JLo makes my job so much easier! As our front desk rockstar, she handles the vital communication and coordination that allows me to focus entirely on providing the best care for my patients.
Brush for at least two full minutes! It’s actually a lot longer than most people think, but it makes all the difference for your oral health.
Alex
My name is Alex! I grew up in Portland, graduated from the University of Oregon (Go Ducks), and recently relocated to Seattle, where I joined the team at Smile Studio. I truly enjoy the opportunity to meet new patients and establish connections with each and every individual who walks through our doors.
When I’m not at work, you can find me in nature, paddle boarding, or on a quest to discover the best food both inside and outside the city.
I try to learn the patient’s past history and reassure them that everything will be okay. I find that patients are able to relax because we treat them with warmth and friendliness.
Nakari. We understand each other well and collaborate to give patients the best experience. We help each other without being asked.
Two minutes of brushing is a lot longer than you think. Set a timer!
Nakari
I was born and raised in Portland, Oregon, and moved here with my husband, Zane, in late 2024. I’ve been a dental assistant since 2018 and love my job!
When I am not in the office you will often find me volunteering with my husband, or reading a book and eating soup.
I’m not a fan of being surprised when you’re in a vulnerable position, I love to explain everything we do before we do it, and answer any questions a patient might have!
What would I do without Alex? 2 dental assistants are better than 1. We help each other keep pace.
My advice for a great smile is showing up to your regular dental appointments so that we can keep up on preventative care.
Jennifer
Hello, I am the friendly face you see when you come in, and the voice that is behind your phone calls. I understand that dental treatment can be overwhelming at times. I am happy to help answer your questions, schedule your appointments, and help solve your concerns.
In my spare time, I enjoy traveling and concerts. My absolute favorite place in the world is Las Vegas. I can get the best of both worlds there. Lady Luck is one of my good friends, I seem to be one of the lucky ones. Sunshine can make me happy any day! I am a true sun worshiper.
We have an amazing referral thank you program, please let your friends and family know we are here. We certainly appreciate you being a patient with us.
I assist patients directly by explaining treatment plans to you. I can investigate your insurance and determine your coverage amounts. Dental insurance can feel like a different language. The good news is I can help you understand your coverage and advise you on how to maximize it. Together we can achieve your dental health goals.
I am thankful that we have such a talented team that can help with your care. Our hygienists, Cassie and Tara, make my job easier by letting me know if you need a referral or other treatment. They can also assist with scheduling your next cleaning before you leave. I am also grateful to have Aliyah to help answer billing questions. She is always willing to contact insurance companies on patients’ behalf and carefully explain claims to patients.
My advice for a great smile is Invisalign. Not only does it straighten your teeth which is a WIN. It also assists in alignment which puts your teeth in a better position to assist in a correct bite to alleviate the pressure on your teeth. Most treatments are fairly quick, all of the sudden you have a brilliant smile!
Aliyah
Hello! My name is Aliyah and I have been a treatment coordinator at Smile Studios since 2023. I help patients understand their insurance coverage and answer billing questions.
Outside the office, I love to cook and bake for my friends and family. I also love to play volleyball.
Ensuring the patient that they can ask as many questions as they need to feel comfortable and educated, and reminding them that we are always here to help.
Jennifer makes my job easier. She’s always willing to help!
Any genuine smile is a beautiful one!
