Tyler Pediatric Dentistry Exterior

The Faces Behind The Smiles

Meet Sofia

Registered Dental Hygienist

Tyler Pediatric Dentistry Team
Sofia was born in Henderson, TX, and has lived in East Texas her entire life. She received her Associate’s Degree from Tyler Junior College in 2019 and joined Tyler Pediatric Dentistry in 2021. The most rewarding thing she finds as a Dental Hygienist is helping children overcome their fears about visiting the dentist. “I love it when the kids leave our office with a smile and how excited they get whenever they get a sticker or a prize.” When not educating kids and parents about the importance of oral health, Sofia spends most of her time with her husband, Miguel, and their two daughters, Natalie and Isabelle, particularly visiting their school and attending sporting events.

Meet Katherine

Dental Assistant

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Katherine is a Certified Dental Assistant at Tyler Pediatric Dentistry and Saint Paul’s Pediatric Clinic. With a passion for pediatric care, Katherine brings her expertise and dedication to ensuring the well-being of young patients. She recently joined the practice and has been making a positive impact in her role. Upon entering college, Katherine explored various career paths, eventually discovering her passion for dentistry. Katherine pursued her education at Tyler Junior College, enrolling in the Certified Dental Assisting Program. Throughout the course, she acquired valuable skills and principles that she applies in her work every day.

Meet Jenifer

Dental Hygienist

 

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Our passionate Dental Hygienist has been lighting up Tyler Pediatric Dentistry since she started. Born in Longview and raised in Tyler, Jenifer found her calling in middle school, waiting for her canines to make their grand entrance. A recent graduate of Tyler Junior College, she thrives on teaching our young patients about oral health and sending them home with dazzling smiles. When she’s not making dental magic, you’ll find her donating to local food drives, exploring new places, or snuggled up with a good book and her fur babies.

Meet Coral

Treatment Coordinator

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As a Treatment Coordinator, Coral is responsible for providing new and existing patients expert consultations by further explaining the Doctors’ comprehensive treatment plan, insurance coverage, and payment options. She has a Bachelor’s in Healthcare administration. Coral recently relocated from Huntington Beach, CA, and has been living in Tyler for the past year. She is originally a healthcare administrator in hospitals but switched to dental practices with inspiration from her mom who has been a dental assistant her whole life. Coral’s hobbies include traveling, exploring, baking, gardening, painting, and camping.


Rhonda

Treatment Coordinator

Born and raised in Tyler, Texas, Rhonda embarked on her dental career in 1992 in North Carolina, starting at the front desk. She has 17 years of experience in the dental field. Rhonda began searching for a new “work home” and feels fortunate to have joined this amazing office. Dr. Ritchie and the team are committed to providing superior dental care with a blend of professionalism, fun, and family spirit. Though much of her work is behind the scenes, Rhonda is dedicated to keeping the office running smoothly and ensuring every patient’s needs are met. She strives to treat patients with the same personal and individual care she would expect for herself. Rhonda has been happily married to her husband, Stephen, since April 2021. They reside in Troup, enjoying the ranch life. Together, they have five children, eleven grandchildren, and a lovable golden doodle named Thor. When she’s not at the office, Rhonda loves reading and experimenting with new recipes. She feels blessed every day and thanks God for the many gifts in her life.

Latrisha

Financial Coordinator

Latrisha has dedicated the past 15 years to the medical field since moving to Texas from Washington state. Her diverse experience ranges from family practice to rheumatology. When the opportunity arose to venture into the dental field, she eagerly embraced it, finding joy in learning and growing in this new area. Latrisha earned her Medical Administrative Assistant degree in Washington State, where she was also honored with the Model Employee Award. Additionally, she completed a mini billing and coding course at TJC and maintains her CPR certification. In her role, Latrisha ensures the smooth operation of the office by verifying patient eligibility and benefits, assisting with check-in and check-out, answering phones, posting payments from patients and insurance companies, and scheduling appointments. The highlight of her job is interacting with families and children, cherishing the smiles and joy they bring each day. Outside of work, Latrisha treasures time with her family, enjoying outings, movies, and various activities together. She has worked as an assistant teacher in a daycare/learning center, an experience she found immensely rewarding. Latrisha believes that children are truly a gift.