Meet Our Scottsdale Dental Team
Nicole - Dental Hygienist
I have been practicing dental Hygiene for over 12 years. One little fact about me is that I have a double degree. I attended Purdue University on a swimming and diving scholarship and was voted the first “All American Diver” in the nation. I obtained my first degree in teaching. After teaching for a few years and some encouraging from friends in the dental field, I decided to pursue a degree in Dental Hygiene from the University of Detroit- Mercy. I love cleaning teeth because I believe in the power and presence of a healthy smile. I feel strongly that my degree in teaching and dental hygiene go hand in hand with patient education.
I was raised in a military family and lived in various places around the country but settled in Arizona where I reside with my husband Mike and two sons. When I’m not in the office you will find me enjoying my family, I am also a licensed realtor and I work with The Dodie Londen foundation and was awarded “Excellence in public service” series, I have a passion for hiking anywhere in the valley.
Favorite Starbucks drink: Non-Fat Latte
Michelle – Financial Coordinator
I have been in dentistry for 22 years. I am originally from Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho. When I was about 14 years old my family relocated to Seattle and this is where I grew up most of my life. Shortly after I married my husband Joe in 2001 we relocated to Scottsdale where we reside now with our two girls.
I started out in dentistry when I was in high school as a sterilization technician. I did various positions in the dental office and decided that the administrative side was more of a natural fit for me. I am the financial coordinator for Gore & Svans Dentistry and I am here to help you with any insurance or billing questions you may have.
In my spare time I love spending time with my husband and two daughters, exploring Arizona’s great shopping and fun restaurants.
Favorite Starbucks drink: Grande Non-fat Vanilla Latte.
Maria Toupin – Office Manager
I have been in the dental field for over 20 years and have had the privilege of working with some amazing dentist throughout my career. I feel honored to work with Dr. Gore and Dr. Svans. They exemplify ethics, quality and take a compassionate conservative approach to dentistry. From the Doctors throughout the entire team, our core philosophy is that we will only recommend treatment that we would suggest for our own families. Our purpose is to develop trust with you and help you reach your dental goals. I have managed other practices in the past and I can honestly say I am blessed to be working with such amazing talented people. I personally welcome you to our office!
A native of Seattle, WA, I relocated in 2007 chasing the sun and less traffic! I met my husband Jay here and we married in October of 2010 and combined our families. We have four awesome children between us. Jay and I love food, wine, and traveling and were able to combine all these when we honeymooned in Napa, Valley. We are always trying new recipes so feel free to send in your favorites for our office cookbook!
Favorite Starbucks drink: Double Tall Non-Fat Latte with 1 Splenda (and all the holiday drinks!)
Kristi - Patient Advocate
I have been in dentistry for 19 years. I am originally from Portland Oregon and have lived in Arizona for 11 years. I am the patient advocate for Dr. Gore and Svans and my goal is make your dental experience the best it can be. I will help you understand your overall dental health and create a customized plan that fits within your goals and budget.
When I am not in the office I enjoy spending time with my husband Nick, cooking, trying new recipes, and shopping. Because I love cooking so much you will find me in occasional Zumba class! I also head up our office cookbook. Feel free to send us your favorite recipe. We would love to include it as our book is always evolving!
Favorite Starbucks drink: Grande White Chocolate Mocha
Kirsten - Dental Hygienist
I grew up in Germany and moved to San Francisco when I was 21 where I worked as a dental assistant. I am bi-lingual in both English and German. I started in 1989 as a dental assistant and was inspire go into dental hygiene by observing the hygienists in my office at that time. I graduated from Penn State with a degree in dental Hygiene in 1998 and I have been practicing for over 23 years. I moved to Phoenix in 2007 when my daughter was accepted to Arizona State University.
In my free time I enjoy spending time traveling the world with my husband Steve, working-out, hiking, and horseback riding. Steve and I also enjoy modern architecture, food and wine! I also spend time with out 2 grown children but have a special place in my heart for my granddaughter and am happy to report I have another grandchild on the way!
Favorite Starbucks drink: Grande Non-fat 120 degree Latte.
Kala - Scheduling Coordinator
I have been in dentistry for 5 years. I was first introduced to dentistry by my Aunt and I absolutely love the field! I work as the scheduling coordinator for Dr. Gore and Svans. I am the person you will initially speak with on the phone and the first person to greet you when you come into our office.
When I am not in the office I enjoy spending time with my family, we are extremely close. I have a contest with my younger brother “who can read the most books and build the biggest library”. So far between us we have read over 100 books this year! Since I am a child at heart I have a season pass to Disneyland and try to go at least once a month!
Favorite Starbucks drink: Grande Iced Passion Tea Lemonade
Shawna - Dental Hygienist
In the mid 1990"s I left my hometown of Palm Springs for more sunny days and warm nights in Arizona. It has turned out to be a wonderful place to continue my career in cosmetic dentistry. I started my dental career in California, as a chair-side assistant. Helping to transform smiles for many years was such a great preparation for continuing my education to become a dental hygienist. I graduated from Rio Salado in 2001 and now have a combined twenty years in the dental field. Dr. Gore and Dr. Svans give our entire team the time and resources to provide our patients with the highest quality of dentistry available today.
When I am not in the office, one would probably find me on a hike with my husband and our enthusiastic Labrador retriever, Ava. We love splashing through the water of The West Fork Trail in Oak Creek Canyon, near Sedona. Nothing makes me smile more than seeing Ava wagging her tail, covered in mud with a stick in her mouth! Sometimes we leave Ava home and travel to new places. Recent favorites have been, Isla Mujeres, off the coast of Cancun, Banff/Lake Louise in Canada, Amsterdam, The North Shore of Oahu and the tranquil beauty of The Tu Tu Tun Lodge on the Oregon Coast. I have received so many travel ideas from patients over the years. If you have a favorite, please share. I will send you a postcard!!
Favorite Starbucks drink: White Chocolate Mocha
