Meet the Team
We recognize that all of our patients are unique and deserve to receive dental care that reflects their individual needs. Our experienced and talented dental team is committed to working with you and your family to create a comfortable, stress-free, and rewarding dental experience every time you visit our practice.
We are pleased to welcome you and your family, and we look forward to working with you.
Dacia
Office Manager
I began my dental career in 2002 with Southern Dental Associates and joined Dr. Ward in his new practice, Ward Family Dentistry, in 2025. As the office manager, I handle a wide array of responsibilities to ensure the smooth operation of the practice. My role encompasses administrative duties, financial management, human resources, and team building, among many others. My favorite part of my job is being there for both the team and the patients. I find great satisfaction in discovering new systems and integrations within the business, always striving to learn and grow. I also love helping others to do the same, fostering an environment of continuous improvement and collaboration.
I’m married and have one daughter who lives out of state. I have a deep appreciation for the arts, including theater, music, painting, and sculpture. While I don't spend enough time outdoors, I love to hike and be in the mountains. I am an animal lover with many fur babies that are as much a part of my family as my blood relatives. I'm also a vegan and a certified life coach. In my spare time, I love to read and enjoy savoring a good cup of coffee.
Ashley
Administrative Assistant
I love helping people achieve their best smile, keeping them comfortable, and delivering excellent customer service. Having a healthy smile really does make people happier! I’m somewhat new to our team, having joined in 2024, and can’t imagine being anywhere else. We’re a large family, always helping each other to make sure our patients have great visits!
Born and raised in Yadkin County, I am a mother of two: a son and a daughter. I’m a huge animal lover and love the beach and doing just about anything outdoors.
Jessica
Front Desk Associate
I enjoy talking with our patients and learning about their lives. We serve incredible people, each with their own experiences, and it’s fun to learn who they are. My goal is to ensure all our patients’ needs are met and their expectations exceeded, so they are happy with their visits. Dr. Ward and our team work hard to create a friendly, relaxed, caring environment where patient comfort is a top priority.
I have been married for five years to my husband Marc-Antony. We have two Russian Siberian cats named Retsuko and Nezuko. In my free time, I enjoy being with family and friends.
Deb
Dental Hygienist
I’ve been a dental hygienist for more than 40 years and can’t imagine doing anything else but helping people smile! I love it when my patients are happy with their appointment, and especially when treatment is completed, and they see the difference in their oral health. I work with a great group of people here at Ward Family Dentistry, all of whom truly care about our patients.
I have several activities outside of work that keep me busy, some of which include golf, football, and swimming. I especially love time spent with my family, and their families.
Kati
Dental Hygienist
I earned my Associate degree in Applied Science, specializing in Dental Hygiene, in 2019. My favorite part about my job is building relationships and rapport with patients. I get instant gratification to have the opportunity to provide a service to others. At Ward Family Dentistry, it is truly a patient-first environment. We try our best to work as a team to make the day pleasant, efficient, and productive for our team and our patients.
On my own time, I enjoy being with my family most of all. I also enjoy gardening, long walks for exercise, and long trips on the weekends.
Mariah
Dental Assistant/Clinical Lead
I attended Manatee Technical Institute to obtain my certifications for expanded functions. Since joining this team in 2013, I have continued my education by completing CE courses on patient care and practice flow. I love working with this team not only because they deliver outstanding dental care but because of the phenomenal chairside manner that is given to each patient.
Outside of my work life, I have a loving family. My husband Casey and I have two beautiful children, Owen and Stella, as well as two dogs and one leopard spotted gecko. I love to hike in the mountains and sit by the waterfalls. I enjoy going to the beach and listening to the crashing of the waves and the laughter from my children.
Amber
Dental Assistant
Hello! I am Amber. I have been a dental assistant since 2017. My favorite part of my job is helping patients become more comfortable and less afraid at the dentist. It is great to work with a doctor who truly cares for his patients, as well as coworkers who are always ready to help patients and each other.
I am married to my husband Blake, and we have two sons, Lloyd and Isaac. We have two puppy dogs that keep us busy. When I am not working, I stay busy with my family, church, and kayaking at Belews Lake, along with some fishing with my husband and enjoying a good book with some coffee.
Erin
Dental Assistant
I attended Forsyth Technical Community College’s accredited dental assisting program and worked at several local dental offices before finding my home here at Ward Family Dental. I love working with everyone here because they are so supportive and compassionate. Everyone has such a great personality and that’s what makes coming to work so much fun!
Outside of my job, I enjoy working out at the gym, spending time with my boyfriend, and playing Minecraft. I also love to read; my favorite author is Darcy Coates. I love her books!