Senior Smile

Vanessa

(Office Administrator/Dental Assistant)

My name is Vanessa, just a little about me, I am happily married with 2 beautiful children. I am an animal lover 2 dogs/2 cats, I enjoy an occasional movie night. I am a dedicated mom, sister, daughter, and friend when I am not working.

I have had the pleasure to work for Dr. Thapar-Dua for over 10 years now. I love working for SENIOR smile. It does not feel like a job. It feels like a group of family members taking care of other family members. We are not just a regular dental office, only providing dental care, but also bringing awareness to the Senior community.  From the Alzheimer’s awareness walks, to the Oral Cancer awareness marathon walk, taking courses on how to work with dementia patients, we are bringing much needed attention to the senior community. These are a few reasons why I love working for SENIOR smile and love working for our Senior community!

Ariadna

(Front Office Assistant)

Hi, I’m Ariadna, but I go by Ary! I’m a college student majoring in communications with a focus on health and sciences. As the oldest of three sisters, I’m very family-oriented and I love to spend my time with my sisters and cousins. When I’m not working/studying or with family, I love to unwind by watching my favorite TV shows and movies or traveling.

I’m thrilled to be a part of the SENIOR smile team. Although I work behind the scenes, I’m proud to support a team that’s dedicated to helping patients feel confident in their smiles, regardless of age. It’s inspiring to see how our team’s work helps make a real difference for patients.

Suyen

(Dental Assistant)

I am Suyen and I have known Dr. Namita for years. We go back to 1999 where we worked together for THE MOBILE DENTIST with Dr. Robert Mantoni. Then she became part owner and I helped her run the mobile practice. We parted ways when Dr. Namita opened her own practice in Bethesda, but not knowing we would reunite again one day at SENIOR SMILE! And I absolutely love working with her and for her mission in helping the elderly.

In my free time, I love to travel back and forth from El Salvador, my native country. I have two boys, Farid and Fernando, who are the lights of my life! I also am fortunate to still have my Mama and love her dearly.

I have learned so much in the field of dentistry, from front desk to assistant to now a certified assistant. I have been doing this a long time and don’t see myself doing anything else!

Carole Burgess-Fongsam,DDS

(Dentist)

I graduated 5th in my class of 86 graduates from the Howard University College of Dentistry in 1986. Married to Patrick Fong Sam. We have two children and four grandchildren. I was born and raised on the beautiful island of Jamaica, West Indies, and have been living in the United States for over 46 years. We are proud citizens of the USA.

Growing up, I too had a fear of dental injections, which inspired me to master the art of providing gentle and effective anesthesia. I truly enjoy all areas of dentistry, especially educating and motivating my patients about the vital link between oral health and overall wellness. Healthy teeth and gums contribute to a longer, healthier life.

One of my passions is dentistry for the elderly. Research shows that controlling periodontal disease can reduce the rate of cognitive decline, including conditions like Alzheimer’s. Through mobile dentistry, I serve underserved elderly populations who often face barriers to care, such as limited dexterity that affects their ability to brush and floss. This work allows me to do my part in improving the quality of life for this vulnerable group.

Currently, I own Sandy Spring Dental Care, a general dentistry practice located in Sandy Spring, Maryland, which I’ve been operating for nearly 12 years.

Namita

(Dentist/Owner)

Namita Kumari Thapar-Dua (aka Dr. Nameet)!

I was born in Madison, Wisconsin! Fun facts, I wrote a children’s book called ‘The Mice in the Woods’ with my mom when I was in elementary school and published it in 2018.   If dentistry wasn’t my passion, I would be working as a wedding planner!

Love to watch movies/show series,  soap operas, color, play board games, work on challenging puzzles, cook , garden, spend time with my family, travel, sporting events, read and take care of our German Shepherd puppy!

It is a pleasure to take care of the elderly.  The senior community needs special attention and I love providing the care they need.  The attention and care we provide is similar to a family member.  Everyone we care for is part of our family and that is the approach we have taken for almost 20 years! ‘Your family is our family,’ is our motto. Thank you for trusting and allowing us to care for your loved ones!