Our Staff

We are especially interested in making all our patients feel right at home! We put your needs first to achieve efficient and comprehensive treatment. Our staff is trained and skilled, and we strive to provide energetic and fun-loving service to each patient.

Our treatment team consists of Expanded Functions Certified Assistants who graduated from the Academy of Orthodontic Assisting. All members of our team have years of experience in treating patients with the highest level of care. We strive to stay abreast of the very latest in technology and advances by regularly attending continuing education courses and seminars such as CPR, OSHA and annual re-certification through the American Association of Orthodontists.

Our Team

Melissa

Financial Coordinator & Office Manager

Melissa is the heart of our front office and has been a vital member of the Austin Orthodontics team since 2011. With over 35 years of experience in the dental field, she brings a wealth of knowledge and dedication to her dual role as Financial Coordinator and Office Manager.

Melissa excels at helping patients and families navigate their orthodontic journey—from understanding treatment options to maximizing insurance benefits. She’s always happy to answer questions and is committed to making each patient’s experience smooth, informed, and positive.

When she’s not keeping the office running seamlessly, Melissa enjoys taking mini getaways, spending quality time with her husband, Bryan, and making memories with family and friends. Of all of her roles, her favorite is being "MiMi" to her grandchildren, Ezekiel Jayce and Samiyah Mae!

Holly

Certified Orthodontic Assistant

Holly is a Certified Orthodontic Assistant who has been an essential part of the Austin Orthodontics team for over 15 years. She began her journey with the practice as an intern after graduating from OTC and has grown into a versatile and valued team member.

Throughout the years, Holly has worn many hats—you might find her assisting Dr. Austin chairside, working with advanced imaging technology, helping in the lab, or welcoming patients at the front desk. Her favorite part of the job? The variety. No two days—or patients—are ever the same, and that’s exactly what keeps her passionate about what she does.

Outside the office, Holly enjoys traveling with her husband, Chris, and making memories with their two daughters, Willow and Lilah. She brings the same energy, care, and positivity to her personal life that she brings to our practice every day.

Whitney

Certified Orthodontic Assistant

Whitney is a Certified Orthodontic Assistant and a patient favorite at Austin Orthodontics. Since joining the team in 2010, she has brought over 16 years of experience in the dental field and a true passion for creating confident smiles.

Whitney assists Dr. Austin with patient procedures and keeps our office running smoothly by managing supply orders. Her love for orthodontics began as a teenager when her own braces journey boosted her confidence—and now she’s proud to help others experience that same transformation.

One of Whitney’s favorite parts of her job is building lasting relationships with patients and their families. She finds it incredibly rewarding to be part of each smile story and feels truly blessed to make a positive impact every day.

Samantha

Certified Orthodontic Assistant

Samantha, or “Sam” as she’s known around the office, is a Certified Orthodontic Assistant who brings a positive energy and team-focused attitude to Austin Orthodontics. Her favorite part of working here is the close-knit, supportive atmosphere—where every team member shares the same goal: putting the patient first.

When she’s not in the office helping create beautiful smiles, Sam enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter. She loves being near water—whether she’s floating, relaxing by the pool, or enjoying a day at the lake. She also cherishes weekends spent grilling, gathering around a bonfire, hiking, or making memories with family and friends.

A favorite quote that inspires Sam daily is:

“Bravery is the audacity to be unhindered by failures, and to walk with freedom, strength, and hope in the face of things unknown.”

—Morgan Harper Nichols

Kara

Certified Orthodontic Assistant

Kara is a Certified Orthodontic Assistant with a fun-loving personality and a contagious laugh that lights up the office. Her journey with Austin Orthodontics has come full circle—she was once a patient in high school, then an intern while attending OTC, and now she’s a proud and essential part of our clinical team.

Kara’s favorite part of her job is watching patient transformations. Seeing the excitement on a patient’s face when their braces come off and they see their new smile for the first time is what makes her job so rewarding.

Outside of work, Kara enjoys spending time with her husband and two sons, and she’s happiest when she’s outdoors—whether that’s at the lake, the park, or the pool. She also has a passion for personal fitness and loves working out to stay active and energized. When she’s not meal prepping, she’s helping clients buy or sell their dream homes as a licensed real estate agent.

Her favorite quote:

“Whatever you are, be a good one.” – Abraham Lincoln

Emma

Front Desk Manager

Emma has been a valued member of the Austin Orthodontics team since May 2022. As our Front Desk Manager, she’s the friendly face (and smile!) that greets you when you walk through the door. Emma plays a key role in keeping the front office running smoothly and ensuring that every patient feels welcomed, supported, and cared for from the moment they arrive.

Known for her organization, kindness, and calm presence, Emma helps create the positive atmosphere our patients love.

Outside of the office, Emma enjoys spending quality time with her husband, family, and friends. During her commute, you’ll likely find her lost in a good book—or more often, listening to one of her favorite audiobooks.

Gracee

Certified Orthodontic Assistant

Gracee joined the Austin Orthodontics team in the fall of 2022 after graduating from the assisting program at OTC. Since then, she has quickly become an essential part of our clinical team with her enthusiasm, skill, and dedication to patient care.

Her favorite part of working in orthodontics is witnessing the pure joy on a patient’s face when they see their new smile for the first time—it’s a moment she never gets tired of being part of.

Outside the office, Gracee recently married her best friend in April 2025 and is loving every moment of newlywed life

Macey

Certified Orthodontic Assistant

Macey joined the Austin Orthodontics team in the fall of 2022 after graduating from the assisting program at OTC. Since then, she has become a valued member of our clinical team, known for her positive attitude and genuine care for each patient.

She loves building relationships with patients and finds joy in being part of their smile transformations—it’s what makes every day so rewarding.

Outside of the office, Macey and her husband are excitedly preparing to welcome their first baby and are thrilled to be starting this new chapter together as a family.

Meet Kaila

Certified Orthodontic Assistant

Kaila became part of the Austin Orthodontics team in the fall of 2022 after graduating from the assisting program at OTC—and she’s been making smiles brighter ever since! Known for her calm, caring approach and steady hands, Kaila brings positivity and precision to every appointment. She loves being a part of each patient’s journey and celebrating the confidence that comes with a new smile.

In 2024, Kaila and her husband welcomed their beautiful baby girl, and she’s fully embracing her new role as a mom. When she’s not at the office, Kaila enjoys cozy moments at home with her family—including her beloved dog. She’s also a big book lover and is always up for a trip to a good bookstore.

Meet Britney

Certified Orthodontic Assistant & Front Desk Rockstar

Since joining the Austin Orthodontics family in 2023, Britney has been brightening our days with her upbeat personality and can-do attitude. Whether she’s assisting in the clinic or greeting patients with a warm smile at the front desk, Britney helps keep everything running smoothly—and always with a friendly touch. Her attention to detail, organization, and genuine kindness make her an all-star teammate we’re lucky to have!

Outside the office, Britney is engaged to her best friend, Leo, and is loving every minute of newlywed life. When she’s not helping create beautiful smiles, she’s likely spending time with loved ones or spreading positivity wherever she goes!