Meet Our Team

Catharine brings more than 10 years of communications and marketing experience to the team. You might catch her helping at the front desk, but most of her focus is on the behind-the-scenes work that goes into running the practice.

"I love working every day to improve the patient experience. We want our patients to feel like family and to know we're doing all we can to make each visit as comfortable as possible. When I'm not at the office I like to hike, ski, and ride horses... or my true happy place: at home with my kids, wearing sweatpants."

Chris began his dental career in 2016 while living in Hawaii and has experience in both front office and clinic operations. Here at Five Pines Dental, he oversees our patient relations, insurance billing, and most importantly watering the office plants. Okay, maybe watering the plants isn't the most important part of his job, but they would all definitely be dead without him.

"Attention to detail is very important to me and we work hard to take great care of our patients. I enjoy being part of a modern practice that values honesty and collaboration. I'm originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, but love being in Portland. I like the food scene and outdoor activities (but only when it's warm out). I also like to bake, surf (but again, only when it's warm out – so basically never in Oregon), and pet stranger's dogs. UPDATE: I adopted a puppy and named her Barbara Hamilton."

Steph graduated from PCC's Dental Hygiene program in 2010. Her gentle cleanings and calming demeanor are a great comfort for those of us with dental anxiety. She's full of helpful tips for home care, and you'll appreciate how she explains the science and technology behind everything we do.

"I'm from Chicago but have lived in Portland since 2005. I love bicycling, hiking, playing guitar, and taking my Jeep Wrangler to the mountains in the snow. My favorite part about being a dental hygienist is helping patients feel comfortable and relaxed. I know that no two people are exactly the same and I always adapt my approach and recommendations to each patient's needs."

Dentistry runs in the family! Anthony's father is a dentist and working in his office as a kid helped Anthony choose dentistry as his own career. He is the proud owner of two bachelor’s degrees: Biology from PSU and Dental Hygiene from Pacific University and has now been in practice for over 5 years.

"My favorite part of the job is education. I love to help my patients learn new things that can help them through their oral health journey. Outside of work, I love the Seahawks, Blazers, Mariners (ugh), and video games and movies – especially Star Wars. I like to play basketball and hang out with my wife, Becca, and our yorkie-poo, Biggs. I'm originally from Boring, Oregon, and currently live in Troutdale."

A 2018 graduate of PCC, Katie (she/her) is an Expanded Functions Dental Assistant and was born and raised in Portland. Her focus during each patient's visit is offering different ways to help them feel safe, comfortable, and relaxed.

"I’ve always had an interest in dentistry and after job shadowing at a dental office, I decided to apply to the dental assisting program at PCC and I'm so glad I did! I love my job – my favorite part is probably my coworkers. We have a great time working together! Outside of work, I enjoy hanging out with friends, going to the movies, and trying new places to eat."

Sara has worked in the healthcare industry since 2014. Her patient care is exceptional – she is kind and patient and great at putting patients at ease. She transitioned to dentistry in 2020 while working at Kaiser, completing their accelerated dental assistant training to earn her Expanded Functions certification.

"I enjoy my job because I like working with people and really love my coworkers. My favorite part of being a dental assistant is working in the lab. I'm originally from Northern California but don't hold it against me, I'm renting. When I'm not at the office, I'm a hermit – always at home cuddling my cat, Meatball, and playing TONS of WoW and other games."

Ava started her career in dentistry in 2019, working in the front office before earning her Dental Assisting certification in 2022. Originally from San Diego, she lived all over Southern California before moving to the PNW in 2023, where she earned her Expanded Functions certification. She is what we call a dual threat – excellent clinical skills plus experience with front-office operations. So much knowledge in one person!

"I love my coworkers and bosses!" Come on Ava, no one will believe you love your bosses. "Fine, I love the variety of things we get to see and do in dentistry. And I do love my coworkers and bosses and helping patients overcome anxiety and seeing them leave with a smile. I also love my kitten, Perdito, taking care of my plants, and going to concerts. My favorite band is Dance Gavin Dance, but I like all kinds of music!"