Meet the Doctors of Village Dental

Dr. Laura Bernal

General & Cosmetic Dentist

Hello! I'm Dr. Laura Bernal! I was born and raised in Bogotá, Colombia, where I completed five years of dental training at Pontificia Universidad Javeriana. Driven by a long-standing dream to practice dentistry in the U.S., I moved to North Carolina and was honored to be one of only eight internationally trained dentists accepted annually into the Advanced Standing Program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. I earned my Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from UNC and was inducted into the OKU National Dental Honor Society in recognition of academic excellence and professional distinction.

My journey in dentistry began at a young age, inspired by my own experience as a patient receiving care from multiple dental specialists. I began my dental education in Colombia and, after relocating to the U.S., worked as a dental assistant while completing the requirements to continue my training. I've experienced dentistry across two countries and two languages, as a patient, student, and provider, which has given me a unique perspective and deep empathy for those I care for. These experiences have shaped my commitment to delivering compassionate, high-quality care to every patient I meet.

Outside the clinic, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, staying active through fitness and walks with my dog, Teddy, and exploring new restaurants with my husband.

Dr. Samantha Britt

General & Cosmetic Dentist

Hi, I'm Dr. Samantha Britt! I was born in Texas and lived in a few different states growing up, but spent the majority of my childhood living in Trumbull, Connecticut. In high school, I learned of my passion for dentistry while working as an assistant at my neighbor's dental practice. After graduating high school, I went to college at the University of Connecticut. I graduated with honors with a degree in Molecular and Cell Biology and a minor in Spanish. I loved every minute I spent at UConn, but knew I needed to live somewhere warmer, so I moved to North Carolina in 2010 for dental school. I graduated from the UNC School of Dentistry in 2014 and advanced my training by completing a General Practice Residency in 2015 at the Mountain Area Health Education Center in Asheville, NC.

Since I have been practicing dentistry, I have become a member of the American Dental Association, North Carolina Dental Society, American Association of Women Dentists, and the Academy of General Dentistry. I truly enjoy being in a profession where I can interact with people every day, create and improve the beauty and health of others, and utilize the ever-changing and evolving technology that defines modern dentistry. There is always something new to learn, which makes dentistry so exciting for me.

My husband and I are parents to 2 small dogs, a rescued miniature dachshund named Slinky, and a chiweenie (chihuahua-dachshund mix) named Moose, who we adopted as a puppy. They are extremely high energy and loving, and definitely keep our lives exciting and unpredictable!

When I am not treating the amazing patients at Village Dental or home playing with my dogs, I love to read, watch movies, and cook. For exercise, I love cycling, practicing yoga, and hiking. My husband and I really enjoy traveling as well. Our favorite places to go locally are to the beach and especially to Asheville, which is our favorite place to visit!

I am thrilled to have the opportunity to be your dentist here at Village Dental, and I look forward to meeting you soon!

Dr. Alex Chong

General & Cosmetic Dentist

Hi, I'm Dr. Alex Chong. I was born and raised in South Korea and moved to North Carolina in 2008. My journey into dentistry began while working as a dental sterilization technician at a community dental clinic. I witnessed how dentistry was so impactful on overall health and changed lives for many patients. It was there that I first discovered my passion and began dreaming of becoming a dentist.

I went on to earn my Bachelor of Science in Biology and Chemistry from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. I then continued my education at the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry, where I earned my Doctor of Dental Medicine degree, graduating with honors — Summa Cum Laude and first in my class.

What I love most about dentistry is the combination of science and art, as well as the ability to work with my hands to solve complex challenges. I'm very detail-oriented, and enjoy meeting new people every day while helping improve their oral health. I am committed to advancing my skills and knowledge to stay at the forefront of this amazing field.

When I'm not practicing dentistry, I love spending time with my wife, Dayena — who's also a dentist — and our son, Carter. We enjoy traveling and exploring new places together.

Dr. Olutoyosi Coker

General & Cosmetic Dentist

Hi, I'm Dr. Coker! I was born in Louisiana, but I proudly consider myself a North Carolina native. I grew up in the Raleigh area and completed my formal education right here in the state. After high school, I became a Tar Heel (Go Heels!) and earned my Bachelor of Science in Biology from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2016.

Not long after graduation, I joined the Village Dental family as a dental assistant at the North Raleigh office while finishing some of my dental school prerequisites, and that experience confirmed that dentistry was exactly where I wanted to be. In 2018, I began dental school at the East Carolina University School of Dental Medicine, where I earned my Doctor of Dental Medicine degree in 2022. After graduation, I stayed on for an additional year to complete an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency, gaining valuable skills in comprehensive treatment planning, endodontics, prosthodontics, and oral surgery.

Dentistry allows me to combine healthcare, service, and personal connection, and that's what I enjoy most about it. My goal is for every patient to feel heard, comfortable, and confident in their care. When that goal is met, healthy, long-lasting smiles are the result.

When I'm not practicing dentistry, you'll usually find me spending time with family and friends, traveling with my husband, Tyler, or staying active. My husband and I also have two pups, Zeus (our senior silver Lab) and Nala (our sweet Pit mix), who definitely keep us on our toes!

I'm so grateful to have found my way back to Village Dental and can't wait to welcome you to the office! Thank you for trusting us with your care. I look forward to meeting you!

Dr. Anya de Frias

General & Cosmetic Dentist

Hi, I'm Dr. Anya de Frias! I was born in the Dominican Republic and raised in Miami, Florida. My motivation to become a dentist began as a child. I saw the incredible difference my childhood dentist made in my parent's confidence by significantly improving their smiles. To me, the dentist was like a magician, transforming lives with their work, and I knew I wanted to do the same. This passion led me to pursue dentistry as a career.

While earning my Bachelor of Science in Dietetics and Nutrition at Florida International University, where I graduated cum laude, I worked full-time at a dental office. I later went on to complete my Doctorate of Dental Medicine at LECOM School of Dental Medicine.

I pride myself on being compassionate and detail-oriented, tailoring treatments to each patient's needs in a calm, welcoming environment. I understand that dental visits can sometimes be stressful, so I emphasize prevention, education, and patient comfort to help my patients feel at ease. As a lifelong learner, I dedicate significant time each year to continuing education to stay at the forefront of dental advancements.

Outside of the office, I love exploring the outdoors. You can often find me kayaking or hiking with my boyfriend and our two dogs, or honing my skills on the golf course.

Dr. Hayley Foley

General & Cosmetic Dentist

I grew up in New Bern, North Carolina and wanted to be a dentist for as long as I can remember. I followed that dream to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill for both my Bachelor of Science in Biology and Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree. I subsequently traded in my Carolina Blue for Dawgs Purple and completed an additional year in extensive post-graduate training at the University of Washington in Seattle. My General Practice Residency provided advanced training in managing dental anxiety with IV sedation, creating personalized treatment plans for patients of all ages and medical backgrounds, and handling dental traumas and emergencies.

As a true Tar Heel at heart, I am so happy to be back home in the Triangle, serving the community I love. My mission is to empower my patients with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their oral health. I believe that open communication is key to a positive dental experience, and I take pride in explaining procedures clearly and answering any questions my patients may have.

Outside of the office, I love spending time hiking with my husband Connor and dog Walter, watching UNC basketball, cooking with friends, and exploring restaurants throughout the Triangle. I look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve and maintain a healthy smile.

Dr. Jacob Hyer

General & Cosmetic Dentist

I am originally from California, and dentistry is actually a part of my heritage! Both my father and grandfather were dentists, and after working at their legacy office, I can see the tremendous benefit that honest, high-quality dentistry can have on generations of people.

Helping people get and stay out of pain, improve their smiles, and practice good oral hygiene so they may enjoy their life and enjoy delicious food are some of the reasons why I love being a dentist!

I earned my Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the UCLA School of Dentistry and did my General Practice Residency at the Veterans Affairs Northern California Healthcare System. I also received a BS in Physiology and Developmental Biology from Brigham Young University. I spent several years practicing in California prior to joining the team here in Raleigh.

In my time off, if I'm not devouring dental literature, most of it is spent with my wife and four kids. We love doing day trips, eating good food, participating in church service, and doing general family-friendly activities. I love to surf, ski, and go to the gym if there is any spare time left over. Super pumped to meet you at the Village!

Dr. Chris Martin

General & Cosmetic Dentist · Co-Founder

I am a native of Hays, NC — a small rural community in the beautiful North Carolina foothills. I attended the University of North Carolina for both Dental School (DDS 1996) and undergrad (BS Dentistry 1993).

I have been in practice in our current location in Olde Raleigh Village since 1998. It has been a wonderful practice home.

I enjoy the practice of dentistry immensely. Dentistry is challenging at times, but provides a true sense of accomplishment. I have always enjoyed 'working with my hands' and 'working with people'. Dentistry allows me to do both of these daily. I feel lucky to have chosen this life path.

I am happily married to Maja Vukojicic Martin (since 1999). We have three beautiful children, Ava Marie (born September 2006), Ella Rae (born October 2008), and Noah Christopher (born December 18, 2009). I also truly enjoy learning from others, being with my family, music, fitness and vintage Volkswagens.

Thanks for your interest in our practice. I look forward to meeting you.

Dr. Martin received a Mastership at the Academy of General Dentistry in 2018.

Dr. Maja Martin

General & Cosmetic Dentist · Co-Founder

Hi, and welcome to our website! A little about me…

I am a Tar Heel!!!! I attended the University of North Carolina for both my undergraduate (BS in Biology '96) and dental school training (DDS '02). I played basketball for UNC from '92 to '96 and was on the 1994 National Championship Team. GO HEELS!!!

I am originally from Yugoslavia. I was born and raised in the city of Kragujevac, Serbia. I came to the United States as part of a student exchange program in 1991 and decided to stay at the UNC for my undergraduate training on a basketball scholarship.

I love the practice of dentistry. I find myself to be an extremely detail-oriented person, and the intricate, precise nature of this profession seems to suit me well. I actually LOVE fixing teeth!

I am happily married to Chris Martin. Chris is a dentist in West Raleigh and is also a Tar Heel. We have two daughters, Ava and Ella, and a son, Noah… all Tar Heels in training!!!

I look forward to meeting you. Thank you for visiting us online!

Dr. Martin has received the Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry and received Mastership in the AGD in June, 2018.

Dr. Megha Puranam

General & Cosmetic Dentist

Dr. Puranam earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Iowa (go Hawkeyes!) and completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) residency at East Carolina University. She's passionate about making every patient feel at ease in the dental chair and is committed to delivering high-quality, personalized care with a gentle touch.

Originally a proud Midwest girl, Dr. Puranam is now living out her East Coast dreams! When she's not helping patients smile brighter, you'll likely find her adventuring with her husband, Kevin, and their two lovable rescue pups, Huxley and Archie. Whether it's hiking, traveling, or hanging out with friends, she loves soaking up good vibes and making memories.

Dr. Puranam is so excited to be part of the Village Dental family and can't wait to get to know the amazing people who make this community feel like home.

Dr. Noureldin Ramadan

General & Cosmetic Dentist

Hi, I'm Dr. Noureldin Ramadan! I'm from the beautiful city of Alexandria, Egypt, where I completed my initial dental training at Alexandria University, graduating with high honors. Driven by a strong desire to learn and train at the highest level, I pursued advanced dental education in the United States. I earned my Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the UNC Adams School of Dentistry (Go Heels!) through the Advanced Standing Program for International Dentists.

My international training has shaped the way I approach dentistry today. I value precision, thoughtful planning, and a comprehensive understanding of each patient's needs. I am also particularly drawn to modern, technology-driven dentistry and enjoy combining clinical efficiency with attention to detail to deliver predictable, high-quality results.

Outside of dentistry, I enjoy weight lifting, traveling, online gaming, and exploring new restaurants and coffee places. I also value time spent with family and friends and enjoy staying active both physically and mentally.

Dr. Imran Rauf

General & Cosmetic Dentist

Hey all! I was originally born and raised in New York, but moved to North Carolina during my later childhood years. I've grown to love North Carolina and attended East Carolina University where I received a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry with a minor in Neuroscience.

Initially, I moved to Washington D.C. to work for the National Institutes of Health following a path in research and medicine, but I discovered an interest in dentistry. I found it as a career to channel my interests in problem-solving, creativity, hand skills, and being able to improve the lives of others. Seeing dentistry as a perfect match, I went on to receive my dental education at the University of North Carolina School of Dentistry where I received my Doctorate of Dental Surgery degree. I then went on to further my training with an Advanced Education in General Dentistry at East Carolina University School of Dental Medicine.

In my free time, I enjoy lifting weights, biking, playing video games, and cooking delicious Pakistani food, as well as Korean food for Dr. Jaehee Yoo! I look forward to meeting you soon!!

Dr. Richards

General & Cosmetic Dentist

Hi, I'm Dr. Richards! I am originally from Southern California. I earned my Bachelor's degree from BYU-Idaho before moving to Kentucky to attend the University of Louisville School of Dentistry, where I earned my Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD). After graduation, I relocated to the Raleigh area.

I am a proud member of the Academy of General Dentistry, and I truly enjoy the intricate, hands-on nature of this profession. My goal is always to provide precise, comfortable, and high-quality care to everyone I treat.

When I'm not in the office, I spend most of my time with my wonderful wife, Alexie, who is currently studying in a dental hygiene program — dentistry is definitely a family affair for us! We love the outdoors and spend our free time hiking, backpack camping, and taking trips to the beach. To stay active, I play volleyball and am avid about going to the gym for strength training. At home, I love cooking meals from scratch and experimenting with new recipes, and I also enjoy unwinding by playing cooperative video games.

I am absolutely thrilled to be joining the Brier Creek team at Village Dental, and I can't wait to meet you!

Dr. Octavio Rodriguez

General & Cosmetic Dentist

I grew up in the mountains of western North Carolina in a small town called Hendersonville. I earned my undergraduate degree from North Carolina State University. While attending NCSU, I fell in love with dentistry by participating in various pre-dental and medical programs at UNC Chapel Hill and West Virginia School of Dentistry. Upon graduating, I worked in a dental office in Cary, NC for one year in order to gain more experience in the dental field. That year, I was fortunate to be accepted to UNC School of Dentistry where I obtained my Doctorate of Dental Surgery degree. During my years in dental school, I had the honor to treat veterans at the Asheville VA Hospital, children residents of the Cherokee reservation in the mountains of NC, cancer patients in Mexico City, and children in Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos Orphanage in Morelos, Mexico. When I am not here at Village Dental, I love spending time with my beautiful wife and our son. My wife is a dental hygienist and we enjoy volunteering in various non-profit clinics providing dental care to the underserved in our state.

The artistry of dentistry, the ability to work with my hands, and most importantly the ability to help people on a very personal level were some of the things that first attracted me to this profession. With experience and time, I have come to realize that coming to the dentist can be an uncomfortable experience and can cause anxiety and fear for many patients. It is my mission to help ease my patients' fears while providing the most gentle and highest quality dentistry. I look forward to meeting you soon!

Dr. Sara Valencia

General & Cosmetic Dentist

Hey, I'm Dr. Sara Valencia! I was born in Wisconsin (though I have zero recollection of it) and spent my early childhood in Texas, but pretty much grew up in the Cary/Raleigh area attending high school not far from here. After high school, I attended North Carolina State completing a Bachelors of Science in Microbiology with a minor in Spanish. Unsure of what I wanted to do career-wise, I moved to Santiago, Dominican Republic where I was able to fine-tune my Spanish and work for a year. Upon returning to the States, I started working in dental research, which exposed me to dentistry as a career working alongside the residents on their research projects. After realizing I wanted a career allowing me to work with my hands but also be involved in the medical field helping people, dentistry was a great opportunity. I then attended UNC Chapel Hill and received my DDS degree there. With a desire to continue learning and challenging myself, I participated in the UNC Hospital General Practice Residency program. I have since worked in public health and private practice seeing patients of all ages.

Being a dentist allows me to work with my hands, meet new people every day, and I also really love the artistry of fixing teeth! As someone who wasn't born with a perfect smile, I can relate to many of my patients and their desire to improve their smiles.

In my spare time, you can find me with my amazing husband, Miguel, and two children, Sam and Amelia, exploring parks and craft breweries. When not running after my kids, I enjoy cooking and trying out new restaurants.

I'm so excited to join the Village Dental family and am looking forward to meeting you!

Dr. Monica Wheeler

General & Cosmetic Dentist

I was born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana. At a young age I discovered the art and science of dentistry through numerous summer science programs, and fell in love with it.

I graduated from Dillard University in New Orleans, Louisiana in 2006 with a degree in Biology and Chemistry, and from Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry in Nashville, Tennessee in 2011. In 2012 I completed a General Practice Residency Program at Morristown Medical Center in Morristown, New Jersey, where I received advanced training and mentorship in various fields of dentistry.

I practiced dentistry in Nashville/Brentwood, Tennessee for a few years after completing my residency and moved to North Carolina in 2014.

I love the field of dentistry. I believe that it encompasses being a doctor, artist, and engineer all in one, while it allows me the chance to help others achieve improvements that will affect their overall health and confidence.

In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, traveling, reading, pilates and community outreach programs with the local chapter of my sorority, and of course attending Dental Continuing Education courses.

It is truly a privilege to be a member of such a highly trained team here at Village Dental. I am excited to meet you and would love to help you achieve a healthy mouth for life. I look forward to seeing you soon!