Meet The Team

Office Manager – Chandra has been a valued member of our office since 2008 and currently serves as our Office Manager, leading the team alongside Dr. Rice. She is certified in monitoring sedated patients and brings extensive expertise in cross-coding medical and dental insurance claims, as well as managing and overturning appeals.

Chandra resides in South Elgin with her husband, their two adult children, and three dogs. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time in her garden, caring for her houseplants, practicing yoga, and traveling—whether with her daughter or on her own adventures.

Clinical Partner EFDA – Teresa became a member of Dr. Rice’s team in February of 2020. She loves to be around her team helping one another out makes work a fun environment to be in. Teresa is certified in patient monitoring for nitrous and IV sedation procedures, applying pit and fissure sealants and achieved her Dental Assisting Certificate from Elgin Community College.

New Patient/Treatment Coordinator – Annette is a highly experienced dental professional with over 30 years in the field, specializing in full mouth reconstructions, All-on-X implants, orthodontics, and routine care. She is passionate about educating patients to maintain lifelong oral health. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband, their two adult daughters, and grandchildren, as well as traveling, biking, and gardening.

Dental Assistant – Clarissa has been working in the dental field for over 10 years and brings a strong passion for patient care and creating positive experiences. She is certified in CPR, sealants, and coronal polishing, and takes pride in delivering high-quality, detail-oriented care. She joined Dr. Rice’s team earlier this year and has truly enjoyed being part of a supportive environment focused on patient comfort and confidence. She especially values the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in patients’ lives—helping them feel confident in their smiles and at ease during their visits.

Outside of the office, she enjoys traveling, exploring new cultures, and discovering beautiful places. She also values spending quality time with family and friends, whether on new adventures or in everyday moments.

Dental Hygienist – Melissa has been a dedicated dental hygienist since graduating from Harper College in 2001. She is passionate about patient care and takes pride in building meaningful relationships, helping each patient feel like part of the dental family. Melissa especially enjoys educating patients and empowering them to feel confident in their oral health.

Originally from Pennsylvania, Melissa moved to the area in 1991 and has proudly called it home ever since. Outside the office, she enjoys boating on Lake Michigan with her husband, traveling, baking, and getting lost in a good book. She also adores her cat, Mae, who she considers a cherished member of the family.

Clinical Partner EFDA – Shannon has been with Dr. Rice since 1999 and brings decades of experience and a passion for dental care to every visit. She is certified in monitoring both sedation and nitrous, allowing her to support a wide range of patient needs. Shannon is dedicated to making each dental visit as smooth and stress-free as possible, and her friendly approach helps patients feel right at home.

Outside of the office, Shannon enjoys spending time with her loved ones, staying active, and finding new ways to enjoy everyday life.

Insurance/Financial Coordinator – Jennifer has been a dedicated professional in the dental field since 2007. She spent her first 10 years as a registered dental assistant before transitioning to the front office, where she now serves as a treatment and insurance coordinator. In 2024, she relocated from San Diego, California to Illinois. Outside of work, Jennifer enjoys exploring her new surroundings, as well as attending concerts and festivals.

Sterilization Technician/Dental Assistant – Genacie is grateful for the opportunity to continue growing and thriving with the team. She is dedicated to helping patients feel comfortable and cared for during every visit, always ensuring they remain the top priority.

Outside of the office, she enjoys spending quality time with family and friends.

Sterilization Technician/Dental Assistant – Maria is a dedicated sterilization technician who plays a vital role in maintaining a clean, safe, and efficient environment for both patients and staff. She also assists the hygienist as needed and is certified in sealants, allowing her to support a variety of patient care procedures.

Outside of the office, Maria enjoys keeping up with the latest movies in theaters, baking sweet treats, and spending quality time with her boyfriend and family.

Expanded Functions Dental Assistant – Laura has been a dental assistant for over 10 years and brings a wide range of experience to the team. She is certified in prophy, sealants, and nitrous monitoring, allowing her to support many aspects of patient care. Laura has also continued expanding her knowledge and skills while working alongside Dr. David Rice over the past year.
Laura is a DACA recipient who was born in Mexico and has spent most of her life in Elgin. Outside of the office, she enjoys traveling with loved ones and taking every opportunity to explore the outdoors.