You won’t find a dentist or prosthodontist in Asheville with a staff as friendly or well-trained.
Let’s meet the team.
Meet the team
Julie,
Practice Manager
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Julie, Practice Manager
Julie joined our office as Practice Manager bringing over 20 years of management experience in healthcare administration. Julie loves optimizing workflows, implementing systems and processes and supporting providers to ensure seamless clinical and administrative collaboration. She strives in creating a welcoming and organized environment where both patients and staff feel supported, appreciated and respected, while being committed to upholding the highest standards of service in every aspect of practice management. In her free time, Julie and her husband enjoy watching their daughter play soccer, family time, hiking, biking and gardening as well as being their miniature schnauzer's emotional support.
Rhonda,
Treatment Coordinator
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Rhonda, Treatment Coordinator
Rhonda, originally from the Connecticut shoreline, moved to Western North Carolina in 2010. She attended Middlesex College, majoring in Sociology and Psychology, and received her Dental Assisting certification from the University of Florida, followed by practice management training. With over 40 years of clinical and administrative experience, Rhonda has been a valued member of Phillips & Schmitt since 2015. Outside of work, she enjoys gardening, photography, painting, and shopping for antiques. She also looks forward to planning her next trip to the coast and spending quality time with her granddaughter.
Judy,
Treatment Coordinator
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Judy, Treatment Coordinator
Born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA, Judy holds a degree in Allied Health and brings over 40 years of experience in the dental field. She and her husband relocated to Asheville in 2018 following his retirement, which also marked the start of her journey with Phillips & Schmitt. Judy loves the warm, family-oriented atmosphere at P&S and values being part of such a caring team. Outside of work, she enjoys boating, baking, and spending quality time with her two little dogs, Toby and Calvin.
Tamara,
Intake & Sleep Department Coordinator
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Tamara, Intake & Sleep Department Coordinator
Tamara was born in South Bend, Indiana, and grew up in Tampa, Florida. She moved to Western North Carolina in 1991 and soon discovered her passion for dentistry. After 24 years as a dental assistant, she transitioned to the administrative side of the field and has been serving as the Intake and Sleep Coordinator at Phillips & Schmitt since 2017. Tamara loves welcoming new patients, helping them feel comfortable, and guiding them as they begin their care with us. Creative at heart, she enjoys finding time for artistic projects and treasures every moment spent with her family.
Nikki,
Scheduling Coordinator
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Nikki, Scheduling Coordinator
Nikki, born and raised in Winston-Salem, NC, has worked in dentistry since 2009 and has been an essential member of Phillips & Schmitt since March 2024. She is married, a proud mom of three adult children, and a grandmother to one. Faith-oriented and nurturing by nature, Nikki brings warmth and care wherever she goes. In her free time, she enjoys riding motorcycles with her husband, tending to her many plants, and finding joy in making people smile—both in and out of the office.
DeAnna,
Scheduling Coordinator
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DeAnna, Scheduling Coordinator
DeAnna joined Phillips & Schmitt in April 2025, bringing a creative background in design, marketing, and patient relations. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Interior Design & Architecture from Western Carolina University, where she also completed double minors in Fine Art and Graphic Design. DeAnna enjoys creating an inviting space where patients feel at home and welcomed. She finds fulfillment in building genuine connections with patients and helping each visit feel as positive as possible. Outside the office, DeAnna enjoys gardening, floral design, watercolor painting, and spending quality time with her daughter and dog.
Heather T.,
Clinical Manager
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Heather T., Clinical Manager
Heather was born and raised in Florida, where she pursued her passion for dentistry by completing both Dental Assisting and Phlebotomy School. Nationally Certified, she earned her EFDA and Radiology certificates with honors. Over the years, Heather has gained extensive experience across nearly every facet of dentistry, including oral and maxillofacial surgery, orthodontics, periodontics, endodontics, general, cosmetic, and pediatric dentistry. With a true passion for serving others, she brings skill, energy, and compassion to her work every day. In 2024, Heather and her family relocated to North Carolina, where she enjoys exploring the outdoors through hiking and kayaking, as well as bodybuilding, and spending time with her husband and their two beloved dogs, Allie and Daisy.
Karen,
Dental Assistant
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Karen, Dental Assistant
A native of Haywood County, Karen began her dental career after graduating from AB Tech’s Dental Assisting program in 1987. She has been with Phillips and Schmitt since 2010, bringing decades of experience along with genuine kindness and compassion. Karen is known for making patients feel comfortable and cared for, creating a warm and welcoming experience at every visit. Outside of work, she enjoys gardening and deer hunting.
Melissa,
Dental Assistant
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Melissa, Dental Assistant
Originally from Florida, Melissa has worked in dentistry for over 20 years and truly enjoys caring for patients. When she moved to the area, she was thrilled to find our practice—it felt like everything just clicked into place. Outside the office, Melissa loves exploring Asheville’s vibrant city life as well as the beautiful nature that surrounds it.
Ashley,
Dental Assistant
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Ashley, Dental Assistant
With nearly two decades of experience in the dental field, Ashley is a passionate Dental Assistant committed to providing exceptional patient care and support. As a proud native of Western North Carolina, Ashely draws inspiration from the natural beauty of her surroundings. When she is not assisting in the dental office, you can find her hiking the scenic trails, enjoying a relaxing cruise, or cherishing quality time with her husband of 20 years. She believes that a balanced life fuels her professional dedication. She is excited to continue her journey in the dental field, where she can continue helping others and making a positive impact on every patient's experience.
Katelyn,
Dental Prosthetics Technician & Dental Assistant
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Katelyn, Dental Prosthetics Technician & Dental Assistant
Katelyn has been a valued member of our team since 2019, contributing her skills as both a Prosthetic Lab Technician and Dental Assistant. With a particular passion for the artistry, characterization, and precision involved in denture fabrication, she finds fulfillment in blending digital lab techniques with traditional craftsmanship. Whether working behind the scenes in the lab or chairside with patients, Katelyn is dedicated to overseeing the entire process to ensure an exceptional experience for every patient. Outside of work, she enjoys soaking in the charm of Asheville year-round with her family and friends—especially when the leaves turn, a favorite band plays downtown, or the lights go up at the Biltmore House.
Ann,
Registered Dental Hygienist
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Ann, Registered Dental Hygienist
Ann has proudly called Western North Carolina home since 1986 and has dedicated her career to caring for others through dentistry. She has been a valued member of Phillips & Schmitt since 2004, where patients appreciate her compassionate and thorough approach to preventive oral care. Outside the office, Ann treasures time with her husband and four children. She also enjoys gardening, reading, and spending time outdoors.
Diana,
Registered Dental Hygienist & Implant Treatment Coordinator
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Diana, Registered Dental Hygienist & Implant Treatment Coordinator
Diana studied Dental Assisting and Dental Hygiene at AB Tech and has been a valued member of our team since 2013. With over a decade of experience, she treasures the opportunity to build lasting connections with her patients and takes pride in helping them feel comfortable and cared for during every visit. Outside of work, Diana loves traveling and exploring new places with her husband. At home, she enjoys spending time with their two playful cats, as well as baking bread, cooking, and creating handmade cards.
Lauren,
Registered Dental Hygienist
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Lauren, Registered Dental Hygienist
Lauren, a proud Asheville native, is passionate about helping people achieve healthy, confident smiles that brighten lives and boost well-being. Since joining Phillips & Schmitt in 2017, she has been a valued team member, bringing both skill and a caring, compassionate touch to every patient interaction. A graduate of AB Tech’s Dental Hygiene program, Lauren takes pride in making each visit comfortable, personalized, and positive. Outside the office, she loves creating special memories with her family and friends, exploring all that Asheville has to offer, and embracing the city’s vibrant culture and natural beauty.
Kelly,
Registered Dental Hygienist
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Kelly, Registered Dental Hygienist
Originally from Phoenix, AZ, Kelly moved to our area with her family in 1990. She completed the Dental Hygiene and Dental Assisting programs at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College. Having been trained in a variety of roles since joining our practice in 2010, Kelly is considered one of our most versatile employees. Outside work, Kelly enjoys spending time with her husband, Evan, and their one-year-old, Wyatt. Kelly loves supporting the local Asheville scene, whether it’s a festival, a new restaurant, or the beautiful outdoors.
Loretta,
Sterilization Coordinator & Technician
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Loretta, Sterilization Coordinator & Technician
Loretta was born and raised west of Asheville in Jackson and Haywood Counties. An experienced Sterilization Coordinator, she joined our practice in 2017. She began her career in dentistry as an oral surgery assistant for 11 years, then worked as a dental assistant for 10 years before transitioning into sterilization and infection control. Loretta continues to use her expertise to uphold the highest sterilization protocols and standards in our practice. She is married, a proud mom of two sons, and a grandmother to three grandsons whom she adores. At home, she enjoys life with her little dog, four cats, and a flock of chickens. Outside the office, Loretta is a Jeep lover and driver who enjoys discovering new trails and exploring the outdoors with her family.
Jennifer,
Sterilization Technician
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Jennifer, Sterilization Technician
Jennifer has been part of the dental field since 2015, gaining experience in orthodontics before joining Phillips & Schmitt in 2024. Here, she plays a key role in maintaining sterilization and providing essential clinical support to both our operative and surgical teams. Known for her reliability and teamwork, Jennifer helps keep patient care running smoothly behind the scenes. Outside of work, she enjoys spending quality time with her family and making the most of every moment together.
Heather M.,
Apollonia Lab Technician
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Heather M., Apollonia Lab Technician
Heather McMeans, CDT, is a seasoned dental technician at Apollonia Dental Lab, located upstairs at Phillips & Schmitt, DDS, PA in Asheville, NC. With over 20 years in the dental lab industry, Heather's journey began in the front office, but her eye for detail and passion for creativity led her to the bench, where she first found joy in making early generations of zirconia look beautiful. Heather earned her certification in dental technology with a focus on ceramics in September 2023 and was honored with the Pillar Scholarship from the Foundation for Dental Labratory Technology that same fall. In September 2024, she joined Phillips & Schmitt DDS, PA. where she now manages fixed cases from start to finish, combining tried-and-true techniques with the latest in CAD/CAM and digital workflows. Heather is committed to continued growth, attending LMT Lab Day Chicago (2024 & 2025), the women in Dentistry Breakfast hosted by the Dental Trade Alliance and the 3Shape Academy in Dallas, Texas. She's a proud member of Ladies of the Mill and the National Association of Dental Laboratories (NADL). Outside the lab, Heather enjoys cooking, traveling and spending time with her son.