It's an incredible opportunity for us and our industry. Being part of something larger that will positively impact patients and communities all over the country is very exciting.
I was pre-med in undergrad, but changed to pre-dental after researching the career & discovering the potential for more life balance. The fun part was that dentistry, as a profession, was sparked by a conversation with my orthodontist at a retainer check visit while home on a summer break. Today, I enjoy conversing with our college aged patients who often visit us for retainer appointments during their breaks.
Dr. Shawna Heetland grew up in Arizona. She attended Xavier Prep HS and was team captain of the state champion cross country team. In undergrad, she ran for St. Mary's College in Moraga, CA and graduated Valedictorian as a science major. She served in the Air Force as a Captain & general dentist, completing her AEGD at Mike O'Callaghan Medical Military Center at Nellis AFB in Las Vegas, as well as, a stint at Cannon AFB before completing orthodontic residency at the University of the Pacific in San Francisco. Dr. Shawna appreciates the accessibility of their "small town" that still offers many activities and opportunities for her family. She enjoys sports, cooking & spending time with her husband, Kelly, their two school aged kids & dog, Coco, who is known all over town for her friendliness and fun demeanor.