At The Braces Place, we believe our office’s success is a reflection of the exceptional team behind it. We take pride in our friendly, well-trained staff who prioritize your needs to deliver efficient, comprehensive treatment in a supportive and nurturing environment. We’re committed to transparent communication, discussing your treatment options, any associated risks, and costs, ensuring that your care addresses your individual needs.
Experienced Professionals Committed to Your Care
Our team members bring years of experience and specialized training to every patient interaction. With certifications and ongoing education, we’re dedicated to providing unparalleled care while staying up-to-date with the latest orthodontic technologies and treatment advances through regular continuing education courses and seminars.
Kayla
Front Desk Coordinator
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My name is Kayla. I am one of our front desk coordinators and I joined The Braces Place family in 2014. I am originally from Orange County, California. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my husband and our two daughters Zoey and Remy. One of the many things I love about my job is how our staff is like one huge family. Fun Fact: I was a patient here when I was 13 and I enjoyed the atmosphere so much, I wanted to work here! I’m the first person you will see when you walk in our practice. I can’t wait to meet you!
- Orthodontic Advice: Wear your Retainers!!
- What do you love about Orthodontics: Watching the confidence blossom with our younger kids when their smile starts to change.
- Favorite memory at work: Making friendships that will last a lifetime.
- Favorite Movie: Pretty In Pink
- Favorite Color: Pink
- What can’t you live without: Netflix
- One word to describe yourself: Passionate
Katie
Front Desk Coordinator
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Hi, my name is Katie and I joined The Braces Place as a Front Desk Coordinator in August 2022. I have over 16 years of healthcare experience and am excited to say this is my first time working in orthodontics. I have really enjoyed getting to know our patients and watching their progress throughout treatment. During my personal time I enjoy spending time with my husband and our two kids, Harrison and Emily. We also have 3 pets we adore; Archie the cat, Harley the dog and Helio the bearded dragon! We love to cook, watch and play sports and travel to the beach when we can.
- Orthodontic Advice: Wear your rubberbands-this is the fastest way to complete your treatment.
- What do you love about Orthodontics: Seeing smiles change.
- Favorite memory at work: Winning the annual pumpkin contest 2 years in a row.
- Favorite Movie: Dirty Dancing.
- Favorite Color: Green
- What can’t you live without: The Beach
- One word to describe yourself: Swiftie.
Laura
Treatment Coordinator
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I have worked in orthodontics for 35 years and The Braces Place for 22 years. I love my job here as a New Patient Coordinator. I have had the opportunity to work in all areas of the orthodontic practice and even outside of The Braces Place. I spent 10 years working for a software company for orthodontics that allowed me to travel all over the US and work in 7 countries. Some of my dearest friends are those I met while working and traveling. I have a son and daughter; they are both college students at The University of South Carolina- Go Gamecocks!!
- Orthodontic Advice: brush your teeth so you don’t end up with scars. Understand that needing braces is more than just a cosmetic fix and your health will benefit. If your parents can provide orthodontic treatment for you, appreciate it, many people need treatment and can’t afford it.
- What do you love about Orthodontics: I love when an adult finishes their treatment and they see the incredible results. Especially when they have waited their entire life to finally have straight teeth. I also love complex cases that may include jaw surgery and seeing a patient after all their hard work has been completed.
- Favorite Memory at work: travel with our team for teambuilding and continuing education.
- Favorite Movie: Liar’s Moon
- Favorite Color: Deep Purple
- What can’t you live without: My children, family, God and chocolate
- One word to describe yourself: Talkative
Jennifer
Treatment Coordinator
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Jennifer joined The Braces Place team in February of 2021. She has over 20 years of experience in the Medical Field and is one of our Orthodontic Treatment Coordinators. The most rewarding part of my job is changing lives through helping to create beautiful smiles! When I’m not working, you can find me tending to our garden, traveling to the Mountains or visiting the Low Country. I have four fur-babies (2 dogs, 2 cats) that keep each other entertained (to say the least) and keep me on my toes! The Braces Place is a very positive work environment with a Team that genuinely cares about their patients and each other. I look forward to meeting you at your appointment and helping you to obtain a healthy, beautiful smile that you can feel confident about!
Ortho Advice: Have fun with colors and don’t be afraid to get started!
Live about Ortho:Helping nervous patients to get started in treatment and seeing them get comfortable during the process.
Favorite Work Memory:Dressing up as Buzz Lightyear for Halloween!
Favorite Movie:City of Angels
Favorite Color:Olive Green
Can’t Live Without:My Family and Fur-babies
One Word: Artistic
Michele
Financial Coordinator
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Hello, I am Michele and have been working in dentistry for more than 30 years. I have extensive experience in orthodontics, as well as cosmetic and general dentistry. I have been an orthodontic assistant and a financial coordinator since 2006 for The Braces Place. I enjoy building relationships with our patients and their families to help create beautiful smiles that last a lifetime. My husband and I have one son who serves in the Army National Guard and attends the University of South Carolina. I enjoy life on the farm, hanging out with family, friends and Hejaz Shriners. I am a big Carolina fan(not the blue kind): GO GAMECOCKS!
Orthodontic Advice: Be patient even when your teeth look good to you.
- What do you love about Orthodontics: It builds confidence and a smile all at the same time.
- Favorite memory at work: Concerts and ballgames.
- Favorite Movie: Failure to Launch
- Favorite Color: All Vibrant colors
- What can’t you live without: My family
- One word to describe yourself: Loyal
Christy
Marketing Coordinator
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Hi! My name is Christy and I am the marketing coordinator. I joined the Braces Place Team in 2023 and have 30 years of experience working in the Orthodontic field. Despite my title, you may see me at the front desk to greet you, at your new patient visit to help you start your journey, or even adjusting your braces. I love having the opportunity to make every patient feel like a part of The Braces Place family! When I’m not at the office, you can find me shopping, crafting, or spending time with the people I hold closest to my heart. I look forward to seeing your beautiful smile around the office!
- Orthodontic Advice: Stay away from sugary drinks.
- What do you love about Orthodontics: Watching patients grow in confidence.
- Favorite memory at work: Trip to Seabrook
- Favorite Movie: Blue Crush
- Favorite Color: Purple
- What can’t you live without: Iced Coffee
- One word to describe yourself: Adaptable
Laura
Orthodontic Assistant
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Hi, I am Laura and I am an orthodontic assistant for Dr. Pennella. I have worked at The Braces Place since 1998. I love working in the field of orthodontics because it’s fun getting to know the patients. I think it’s also rewarding to see the final result of their beautiful new smile.
- Orthodontic Advice: Get Braces
- What do you love about Orthodontics: The final results and getting to know the patients
- Favorite Memory at Work: Continuing Education Trips
- Favorite Movie: A Star is Bor
- Favorite Color: Teal
- What can’t you live without: Sugar
- One work to describe yourself: Reliable
Dallas
Orthodontic Assistant
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I’m Dallas and I am an orthodontic assistant at the Braces Place. I joined the team in 2018. I have loved working here and seeing many smiles transform over the years. I enjoy spending my free time with my husband, 2 daughters and our chocolate lab. I was even a patient of Dr. Pennella’s years ago and loved every minute of the process!
- Orthodontic Advice: Wear retainers for your lifetime to keep teeth as straight and beautiful as the day they came off
- What do you love about Orthodontics: Seeing smiles transform and confidence heighten.
- Favorite memory at work: Laughing and becoming life long friends with coworkers.
- Favorite movie: How the Grinch Stole Chrismas
- Favorite Color: Blue
- What can’t you live without: Alani
- One word to describe yourself: Ambitious
Ariel
Orthodontic Assistant
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Hi! My name is Ariel. While I’m new to the team, working here has been so enjoyable and rewarding. I love meeting all our patients and helping them achieve their perfect smile. In my downtime, I enjoy spending time with my boyfriend, my dogs and my family making them life and creating memories.
- Orthodontic Advice: Brush your teeth and wear your rubberbands.
- What do you love about Orthodontics: Seeing the end result
- Favorite memory at work: Being the Tooth Fairy.
- Favorite Movie: Grown Ups
- Favorite Color: Light Blue
- What can’t you live without: My water bottle
- One word to describe yourself: Contagious
Brenda
Orthodontic Assistant
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Hi my name is Brenda! I am an orthodontist assistant here at the braces place. This is my first clinical profession, but I have previous experience at other dental offices. I love being a part of patient’s orthodontic treatment and seeing such amazing, beautiful results! I am originally from Mexico but raised in America. I speak fluent Spanish and enjoy helping our patients interpret when needed. I am an animal lover, enjoy spending time with my husband, our two dogs, doing anything fitness related, hiking, watching Netflix, and coaching at OPEX Midlands.
Susan
Orthodontic Assistant
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Hi, I am Susan and I have worked as an orthodontic assistant with the Braces Place since 1995. I am married to a wonderful man and have a great son and a handsome grandson named Elijah that keeps me very busy. I have always enjoyed my job and getting to know so many new people, making beautiful smiles, and meeting new friends.
- Orthodontic Advice: Patience goes a long way.
- What do you love about Orthodontics: Working with people
- Favorite Memory at work: All of the sweet letters and cards I have gotten.
- Favorite Movie: White Christmas
- Favorite Color: Emerald Green
- What can’t you live without: Tea
- One word to describe yourself: Blessed
Miguel
Orthodontic Lab Manager
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Hello, I am Miguel and I am a certified orthodontic technician. I came to Columbia when my father was stationed at Fort Jackson Army Base. I received my dental training while serving in the Navy (1971- 1977). After an honorable discharge, I moved back to Columbia to continue my career in dentistry as a technician. I started with The Braces Place in 1994. As a technician, I manage the Lab. I have three adult children, nine grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. My hobby is photography and has been for over 50 years. My photos of our patients are visible throughout the office and on this website. I’m a volunteer with the Special Olympics of SC as an event photographer. I love music and have a funny sense of humor. I speak Spanish fluently
- Orthodontic Advice: Patience goes a long way.
- What do you love about Orthodontics: Working with people
- Favorite Memory at work: All of the sweet letters and cards I have gotten.
- Favorite Movie: White Christmas
- Favorite Color: Emerald Green
- What can’t you live without: Tea
- One word to describe yourself: Blessed
