About Us
Dr. James Otten, DDS
Your dentist, Dr. James Otten, excels in what many dentists find challenging – the treatment of the fearful patient. Many people are simply very uncomfortable with anything related to dentists or dentistry – even to the point of delaying or avoiding medically needed treatment of their teeth and gums.
However, for patients in the Lawrence area, our dental office successfully treats dental phobic patients through techniques that help to relax the patient and alleviate patient fears.
Our dentist fervently believes that life is truly better with great teeth and that you deserve a healthy mouth and a beautiful smile. Even if you don’t like dentists or dental treatments, the dentist can make sure that you’re glad you went to her office. As Dr. Otten says, “Optimal care for my patients can only be achieved through personal service, continual education and compassion on the part of myself and my dental practice. We put our patients before all else.”
As with aspect of our practice, we never settle for average because we believe in the long-term value of exceptional quality provided in an atmosphere of trusting relationships. Foremost in this environment is the exceptional quality of the people that choose to work here. All of our team are dedicated to providing you with an outstanding unparalleled health care experience but mostly they all are clear about their most important role-to be your advocate in the important decision making about the choices for your health. As a Doctor I couldn’t be more proud to work with all these quality people. When you read their words you’ll know why.
Vickie
Client Care Coordinator and Financial Manager
Vickie has been an integral part of our practice for 24 years. As most of you know, Vickie is the wife of Dr. Otten and fills the role of client care coordinator and accounts payable manager.
Vickie met Dr. Otten while she was working at Hallmark Cards in Kansas City as a Packaging Buyer. She is originally from Kansas City, Missouri where she attended Southeast High School and Rockhurst College. After moving to Lawrence, she worked at Douglas County Bank and Landplan Engineering. In 1986 Dr. Otten asked her to join him as his partner in the dental practice, helping him in the business office. She has gained much knowledge about the world of dentistry and enjoys her ability to help clients find a path of health that is right for them. Her relationships with the clients over the years have been extremely rewarding and she always enjoys her visits with them and having them a part of our practice family
Vickie and Dr. Otten have one son, Craig, who lives in San Diego with his wife Christine. Their pride and joy, granddaughter Lexi, makes San Diego their number one travel destination. Vickie’s other interests are her community involvement, dancing, sports and of course, the dogs -Sadie, Abby – and the cat, Lokei.
Anh
Clinical Care Facilitator
As a recent graduate of the University of Kansas, Anh was excited to become part of such a dedicated team of professionals. “I have been extraordinarily fortunate to have the opportunity to learn about every single aspect of dentistry from each talented member of the team,” says Anh enthusiastically. “I look forward to building relationships and providing the quality of care that this practice stands by and that each patient deserves. My goal is to help facilitate the improvement and maintenance of not only dental health but also the overall well-being of each patient, while never compromising our philosophy of care.”
Born in Vietnam, Anh and her parents immigrated to the U.S. when she was six. She and her family resided briefly in southern California, but call Garden City, Kansas home.
After graduating from Garden City High School, Anh went on to attend KU, receiving her Bachelor’s degree in Human Biology. Her experiences both in Lawrence and the university have helped her to grow immensely.
When describing herself, Anh says, “I am blessed to have wonderful family and friends whom I love spending time with. They are my foundation and motivation. I love everything about the culinary experience from cooking to dining. Along with that, I also enjoy reading, working out and shopping. I try to keep both my mind and body active. It is important to me to lead a life that is environmentally friendly.
My passion is to help others. I believe there is no greater satisfaction than in making someone’s day through your actions, no matter how small or big. Honesty, integrity, and compassion are characteristics that I expect of myself and I have been so lucky to have found it in my work as well. I am proud to be able to serve the patients of this practice and feel very privileged for the opportunity to grow and build relationships.”
Nery
Clinical Care Facilitator
Nery graduated from Garden City High School in 2000. After graduation, she began a career with Federal Express and worked for FedEx for five years where she had a great experience and grew in many ways. As a Senior Customer Service Agent, Nery discovered that she loved working at a job that focused on helping people. It is through that discovery that she became interested in dentistry. She attended Houston Dental Assistant School in Houston, Texas, but upon finishing the assistant program she knew her heart was still in Kansas.
“Fortunately for me I discovered Dr. Otten’s office, and was intrigued with both him and his wonderful team.” explains Nery. “The beauty of their philosophy and principles fit with mine and I found myself wanting to be a part of achieving their goals. I was blessed with joining the team in June 2007, and have enjoyed every day. The calm, positive atmosphere, and the care and warmth given to and received by our patients keep me motivated to do my very best.”
While she is not helping others with their health, Nery loves to travel, attend concerts, shop (sometimes too much) and cheer for the Chiefs and Jayhawks.
Casey, RDH
Hygienist
Casey has been working in the dental field for 22 years- her first job was as dental assistant while still in high school. “Thus began my journey in dentistry,” relates Casey. “I knew then that I wanted to be in the profession.”
Casey has been a Registered Dental Hygienist for 15 years. She graduated from Johnson County Community College in May 1995 with an Associate’s degree in Science and from the dental hygiene program. She is licensed to practice in the state of Kansas, and also licensed to give anesthetic and administer nitrous oxide. Most of her career has been spent working in periodontal practices, a profession she loves.
Casey began working for Dr. Otten in February 2009. When she first interviewed with the staff, she knew it was the office for her. “The peaceful environment was nice,” Casey says, “but the pursuit of excellence in patient care was exactly what I was looking for. I love my job and I am eager for the opportunity to meet and form relationships with all of my patients. I enjoy providing my very best care for each individual. I have high standards of excellence for myself as a dental hygienist and it is nice to be in an office that has high standards for all patient care.”
Casey has lived in Lawrence for 26 years and is the proud mother of two wonderful children. Her daughter, Cienna, is her oldest and her son, Indiana, is 2 years younger. Motherhood is truly Casey’s first passion. “I am active in their lives and in their school. I volunteer at their school and work on projects for the school’s auction. I love being involved in every aspect of their lives. When I am not busy being a mom or busy at work, I have many other things to keep me active. I enjoy anything artistic including baking and decorating cakes. My children love that. I have a need to be outside in nature. There is not much that makes me feel better or more serene.”
Brenda
Patient Care Coordinator
Brenda feels fortunate to be a member of Dr. Otten’s exceptional team, bringing 30 years of clinical and administrative experience to the practice. Her dental training started as a dental assistant and over the years she has been able to work not only in general dentistry but also in the specialty periodontal sector as well. Brenda says, “The most rewarding part of my position is the relationships we build with our patients. Because of the value we place on building trusting relationships and our unmatched expertise we have the opportunity to profoundly change and improve their health and smiles. In turn what I have found is that our patients improve our lives with their friendship and trust.”
Brenda grew up in a military family which allowed her to live and travel to many interesting places. She currently lives in Lawrence, having moved there by way of Columbia, MO. Her family is the most important thing to her and she has been blessed with four children and one grandson. When she is not working, she enjoys weekend adventures checking out the local activities, rummaging through antique shops, or trying out a new creative project. “I’m excited to be in Lawrence and to be associated with such a distinguished and caring dental practice.”