Our Doctors
Dr. Jessica Sifrig
Hi! I’m Dr. Jessica Sifrig, I was born and raised in St. Petersburg, Florida. I attended the University of Florida for my undergraduate, where I found my love for dentistry and Gator football. (Go Gators!) I decided to pursue both and stayed at the University of Florida for dental school.
Upon graduation, I moved with my fiancé to the Lonestar State where I started my career as a general dentist. After a few years in Texas, we decided to settle down in Raleigh, NC. Thankfully, this move brought me to Village Dental!
I love that as a dentist I can not only improve my patient’s oral health but also increase their confidence with beautiful, healthy smiles. When not practicing dentistry, I love reading, cycling, and spending time with my family and our Goldendoodle, Volta! I can’t wait to welcome you to Village Dental, see you soon!
Dr. Samantha Britt
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.
I met my husband, Phillip, in 2010, and we got married in 2015. We 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. Catalina Escobar
I continued my studies at NC State University and graduated as a proud Valedictorian with a degree in Human Biology, Genetics, and Nutrition. I continued at ECU School of Dental Medicine and earned a Doctor of Dental Medicine Degree.
I feel privileged to be part of the Village Dental family once again and to work alongside such an amazing team of doctors and dental professionals. My passion for dentistry stems from my own experiences as a fearful dental patient and I strive to help all my patients overcome this barrier. Outside of work, my husband and I enjoy traveling, trying new restaurants, and spending time with family and friends. Our home is filled with pets and joy, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.
I look forward to meeting you and helping you along your journey toward better oral health.
Dr. Saul Gonzalez
Dr. Jacob Hyer
I am originally from California, and dentistry is actually a part of my heritage! Both my father and grandfather were dentists. 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 generally 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
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. Maya Martin
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. Imran Rauf
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 and 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, cooking delicious Pakistani food, as well as Korean food for Dr. Jaehee Yoo! I look forward to meeting you soon!!
Dr. Octavio Rodriguez
Dr. Christina Ruhala
I found my love for dentistry during my time at Michigan State University (Go Green!) where I graduated with honors with a degree in Human Biology and minors in Health Promotion and Bioethics. I then went on to earn my Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry. Although most of my dental journey has been spent back in Michigan, I was fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to travel to the Dominican Republic multiple times in my career to provide free dental care to individuals who otherwise would not have had access to care.
Connecting with my patients and earning their trust as a provider brings me so much joy. Especially in a field that is shrouded with fear. I strive to make every patient feel comfortable and at ease and I love that I get to combine my passion for patient care with the intricacies and beautiful challenges of saving teeth. The artistry and precision that high quality dentistry demands fuels my passion as your dentist and I can’t wait to be entrusted with your care here at Village Dental!
When I’m not in the office, you can most likely find me eating my way through Raleigh with my husband and baby boy! I love staying active outdoors and traveling with my family. Please feel free to bring me your favorite food place recommendations the next time you’re in!
Dr. Sara Valencia
Dr. Monica Wheeler
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!
Dr. Jaehee Yoo
Dr. Abdul Zalal
While at the School of Dentistry, I was lucky to have the opportunity to explore my passions, leading me to working with underserved patients locally and internationally, engaging in scientific research, and advocating for dentistry on a local and national level.
Leaving the school only signalled the beginning of my learning journey, and I have been fortunate to have the opportunity to pursue advanced training in many aspects of dentistry, from surgery to complex rehabilitation.
I live in Raleigh, where you can find me enjoying the outdoors, riding my bike, getting ice cream, roasting coffee, or boarding a plane to travel and explore.
Dr. Saul Gonzalez
Kristy
Hi, my name is Kristy. I’ve been in the dental field since 2008. I am originally from Pennsylvania and that’s where I started my dental career as an oral surgery assistant. I moved to North Carolina in October of 2012 and I have been part of the Village Dental team since July of 2013.
In my spare time I enjoy playing with my two dogs, camping, going to the beach, and working out. I look forward to meeting you and assisting with your dental needs!
Jennifer
Hey! My name is Jennifer and I am so happy that you’re considering Village Dental for your dental home. We strive to have the best customer service and hope to make your dental visit as smooth as possible. A little about myself – I grew up in Clayton, NC. My husband and I have a beautiful black lab, and we are new parents to our sweet son, Parker! We enjoy spending time together as a family, going to the beach and spending most of our summer at the pool! I look forward to meeting you soon!
Brooke
Hey! My name is Brooke. I was born in upstate New York and raised right here in North Carolina. I obtained a passion for the dental field while I was working as a veterinary technician for an animal hospital here in Raleigh. I have been in the dental field for 5 years now. I am currently pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Marketing at East Carolina University.
I am married and have been blessed with two amazing boys (Noah age 4; JW age 8). We have 2 indoor dogs, Cooper and Roxanne. You can usually find me cheering my boys on for their baseball, football, swimming, and karate events. In my free time, you will find me at the gym or planning a family activity either by the pool, the beach or even a mountain trip. We love anything outdoors! You can also find us spending time in the pasture with our Annabelle the Pony, Ralph the Mule, Henry the Bull, and several goats. I am so excited to become a part of this amazing team here at Village Dental. I look forward to meeting and working with you.
Kendall
Hi! My name is Kendall. I have been a resident of North Carolina for many years. I began my career in the dental field in 2008. In 2008 I attended NCDENTALU and received my Dental Assistant I certificate. After, I received my DAI training I moved to Germany for 3 ½ years. In August of 2011, I graduated from University of Maryland University College with my A.A. degree. The following year I moved back to North Carolina and began working as an insurance coordinator. In the dental field I have worked as a dental assistant, front desk administrator, office manager, financial coordinator, and treatment coordinator. I have found my passion to be insurance coordinating. When I am not at work I love spending quality time with my beautiful 5 year old son Brycen. He has a love for baseball so, in the spring and fall, I am watching baseball games after work regularly. I also enjoy spending time with the rest of my family, going to the beach, traveling, reading about current events, and writing. I look forward to meeting you soon!
Shannon
Hi! My name is Shannon, I became part of the Village Dental Family in 2019. I moved here in 2018 from New Port Richey, Florida where Dentistry from the Heart was established! I have been in the dental field for over 30 years. I was an assistant for all those years and now I am a recruiter. I look forward to meeting you and going over any dental questions or concerns you may have.
Lauren
Hi, my name is Lauren and I have been a part of the Village Dental Olde Raleigh team since 2018, where I started my dental career. I am originally from the suburbs of Philly and relocated to Raleigh in 2015. I am also a certified yoga instructor, as well as a certified Shamanic Reiki practitioner. When I’m not at work, I enjoy teaching and practicing yoga, meditating, reading a good book, or having a good glass of wine with friends. I look forward to meeting you soon!
Nicole
Hello, my name is Nicole and I have been assisting for about 11 years, and I am now a treatment coordinator. I’m from Miami, Fl and moved to Raleigh about 13 years ago. I have two beautiful children, Jordyn and CJ. In my free time, I enjoy spending time outside with my kids, going to the beach and traveling. I look forward to working with you at your next appointment!
Angie
Greetings everyone! My name is Angie, your Director of Learning and Development. I was born and raised in the Philippines, and lived in Denver, Co for 12 years before moving to the Triangle area. I have been an assistant since 2009 and I am grateful to say that I have found my passion and purpose in life. Besides being a mom, I enjoy the outdoors, love the beach, and cooking is my stress reliever. Village Dental has the most passionate people when it comes to your dental needs. I am truly grateful to be a part of the practice, because each one of us here will deliver a very satisfying and most comfortable visit with our dentist. Let’s all smile confidently!
Theresa
I am a long-time resident of Wake Forest, NC. I am returning to dentistry after 12 years of working in veterinary medicine. I recently remarried my wonderful husband, Greg, and we will celebrate our 2nd anniversary in July. We share 3 daughters, 1 granddaughter, 2 dogs and 2 granddogs. When we’re not working, you’ll find us kayaking at the beach!
Maggie
Hi! I’m Maggie. I’m from North Carolina, born and raised. I have been with Village Dental since 2017! I have a passion for educating patients about their dental health and removing fear during their first visit to our office.
I have been married since 2014 to my wonderful husband, Jesus, and have two dogs (pitbulls). I enjoy every aspect of dentistry and look forward to meeting you soon!
Elizabeth
Bio coming soon.
Katrina
Hi! My name is Katrina and I am a dental assistant here at Village Dental. I am a Raleigh native, but I left to serve as an active duty service member in the U.S. Army. I first expressed interest in the dental field at the age of 9 years old when I was seen by my first female dentist. I decided that day that I wanted to be a dentist. After leaving the Army, I went to dental assisting school and I have loved nothing more (except my family and my dog, Zoey)! After assisting for 8 years I decided to go back to college and I completed my Bachelor’s of Science in Biology from NCCU in hopes of pursuing my dream of becoming a dentist.
Davetta
Hello, my name is Davetta! I was born and raised in Wilton, North Carolina. I became interested in the dental field once I had my beautiful daughter. I fell in love with dentistry and helping people have a better smile. I plan on pursuing my career goal to be a dentist.
When I’m not working, I’m spending time with my two lovely kids and better half. Doing whatever it takes and helping to assist the people is what I am here for. Looking forward to meeting you at Village Dental!
Alex
Hi, my name is Alex. I was born and raised in Raleigh, but now call Johnston County home. I have been in the dental field for 5 years and have loved every minute of it. When I’m not working, I’m spending time with my 4-year-old son who keeps me busy! I also love spending time at the beach, the lake, fishing, crafting and baking. I’m so proud to be a part of the Village Dental family and I look forward to meeting you!
Maureen
Hi, my name is Maureen. I recently relocated from Red Bank, NJ where I was born and raised. I first went to business school, then attended Brookdale College for Dental Assisting and X-ray technology. Dentistry is where I have found my passion! I have an awesome husband and an awesome daughter. My daughter is a sophomore at James Madison University in VA. I have 3 dogs, Pookie, LuLu and Bear, who I absolutely adore! I love North Carolina and I am excited to be a part of the Village Dental office with the most incredible team and dentist.
Michael
Austin
Hi, my name is Austin. I grew up in rural northeastern North Carolina in a little town called Hertford. My family has a rich history of working in public service and I jumped at the opportunity to become a paramedic about 6 years ago. I served the citizens of Johnston County for 3 years before moving over to Wake County EMS to serve the community in which I live. To better serve you, I continue to work part time with Wake County EMS to keep up with all the advances and current training involved in emergency medicine. I graduated from Johnston County Community College with an AAS in Emergency Medical Science and have a BS in Interdisciplinary Studies with a focus in psychology and health science from Liberty University. I have furthered my training by attending Western Carolina University and taking all available EMS classes.
When I’m not at Village Dental or running 911 calls, I enjoy spending time with my wife and 1-year-old son, perfecting recipes on my smoker, building rustic furniture, or visiting local breweries. I can personally relate to the anxieties of having dental work completed and am honored to provide safe, effective, and stress-free sedation at Village Dental.
Travis
Hi, my name is Travis! I graduated with honors from Coastal Carolina Community College with an associate degree in applied science for EMS. I have worked in medicine since 2014. I worked on an ambulance in a 911 system for four years. I then worked as a cardiac stress tech for a mobile nuclear imaging company for two and a half years, and then moved to Village Dental as a paramedic on the Sedation Team. I absolutely love everything about Village Dental, and look forward to providing the highest quality of care to each and every patient.
In my spare time, I thoroughly enjoy spending time with my family, watching football, playing some video games, and enjoy satisfying my sweet tooth. My long-term goal is to keep giving back to my community through medicine. My short-term goals are to enjoy today for today, provide for my family, to help my boys and my wife continue and successfully complete their college educations, and to spoil my 3-year-old little girl (princess)!
Blair
Bio Coming Soon!
Tyler
Hi everyone, I’m Tyler! I’m originally from South Carolina, but I’ve lived in North Carolina since I was nine. I lived on the Crystal Coast for 20 years before moving to the Raleigh area. I started working as an EMT in 2009 and went on to obtain my paramedic certification in 2013. I’ve had the ability to work in various prehospital settings which has allowed me to fine-tune my patient care skills.
I love being able to help patients feel comfortable and ease their fear of dentistry. I am detail-oriented and keep my patient’s safety and comfort as a top priority.
Outside of working as a paramedic, I love being outdoors, kayaking and exploring small towns. Also I have a love for woodworking and spend a lot of time working on projects.
Justin
Bio Coming Soon!
Spenser
Hi, my name is Spenser! I’m from Philadelphia, born and raised (Go Eagles!), and I moved to North Carolina over ten years ago. I began my public service career in 2016 as a fireman and shortly after started working as a full-time paramedic in a local 911 system. I am currently taking classes to obtain an Associate’s Degree in EMS. I am also an adjunct instructor for EMT and paramedic classes. Working at Village Dental, I hope to provide an enjoyable and worry-free experience.
In my spare time, I enjoy playing games with my four-year-old daughter, watching movies with my fiancé, and playing outside with my two dogs, Lola (German Shepherd) and Bella (Newfoundland).
Carolina Dental Learning Center
Do you want to increase your knowledge and experience in the dental field? If so, enroll in our Dental Assisting School today! We offer hands-on training and monthly study clubs that are designed to help you achieve your career goals. To learn more about the courses we offer and our upcoming class schedule, click here!
Our Family Practice
