My Philosophy is to provide the best possible orthodontic care in a friendly, caring environment. Being an orthodontist is the best job in the world! Providing the positive change a great smile creates is very satisfying.

Education

I earned my degree in Nutrition as well as my dental degree (D.D.S.) from the University of Washington (Seattle, WA). I received my Orthodontic Certificate from the University of California (San Francisco, CA).

• Bachelor of Science- Nutrition, University of Washington
• Doctor of Dental Surgery, University of Washington
• Certificate in Orthodontics, University of California San Francisco

Professional Experience

From 1981 thru 1994, I practiced General Dentistry and then Orthodontics with the U.S. Air Force, serving in Maryland, Germany and California. In 1995 my family and I returned to Spokane, and have practicing orthodontics here since that time.

Associations

I am a member of the American Dental Association, The American Association of Orthodontists and have been active in the Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontics, serving on committees and as a regional editor for the Bulletin. I have participated in the Seattle Study Club and several other dental study clubs.

• American Dental Association
• American Association of Orthodontists
• Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists

In the Community

I am a Spokane native and am proud to serve my community as a member of the Maxillofacial Review Board at the Spokane County Department of Health and through various other community activities. I am also involved with Hearts in Motion, an organization that travels to Guatemala to provide dental care.

Outside the Office

My husband, Dr. Mark Paxton, a Spokane Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, and I have two grown children, Chris and Lindsey. Chris is an Air Force pilot, frequently flying in Kuwait and Iraq. He and his wife, Mary Dorothy, live in Abilene, Texas, with their son, Quincy. Lindsey recently returned to Spokane and is in Law School at Gonzaga University. I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling and many outdoor activities including hiking, biking, and skiing, as well as cooking and hand crafts.