Meet the Team
We know that our office is only as effective and as welcoming as the people who work in it, which is why we take pride in our friendly and well-trained team members! We put your needs first to achieve efficient and comprehensive treatment in a supportive and nurturing environment. We promise to speak candidly with you about possible treatments as well as any risks and associated costs of treatment, and how treatment can address your individual needs.
Our staff is uniquely trained and highly skilled, and we strive to provide unparalleled service to each patient. Our staff consists of team members with specialized training and certifications, and years of experience in treating patients with the highest level of care. We strive to stay abreast of the very latest in technology and advances by regularly attending continuing education courses and seminars.
Kayla
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 daughter Zoey. 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!
Laura
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.
Michele
Hello, I am Michele and have been working in dentistry for over 25 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 Dr. Pennella. 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. In my leisure time, I enjoy life on the farm, camping, and hanging out with family and friends.
Miguel
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 54 years ago. 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 52 years. My photos of our patients are visible throughout the office. 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.
Laura
I'm Laura and I am a treatment coordinator at the Braces Place. I have worked in orthodontics for 29 years. I started out as a clinical assistant and have worked in every position possible in an orthodontic office. I spent 10 years working with a computer software company that specialized in orthodontic software. During those 10 years I traveled to different offices each week teaching the office staff how to use their new software. My favorite thing about working in orthodontics is getting to meet all the new patients on their first visit. I am from Chapin and I have two children Molly-Grace and Jed. I love the specialty of orthodontics and I enjoy traveling in my free time.
Susan
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.
Dallas
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!
Jennifer
Hello, I'm Jennifer and I joined The Braces Place team as a Treatment Coordinator in February of 2021. I have over 17 years of experience in the Medical field and I am excited to start a career in Orthodontics! When I'm not working, you can find me tending to my garden, traveling to the mountains, or visiting the Low Country. My Son is a 5-pound Maltipoo named Ollie and he has me wrapped around his tiny paw! I love that The Braces Place is a Green office with a positive work environment and Staff that genuinely cares about their patients. I look forward to meeting you at your appointment!
Brenda
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.
Katie
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 love to cook, watch and play sports and travel to the beach when we can.
Ashley
Hey everyone! My name is Ashley and I'm a orthodontic assistant here at the Braces Place! I was a patient here years ago and I just started working August 2022. I am a lover of all animals and swimming in the ocean with my newlywed husband. In my free time I love to take naps or be outside in the sunshine. Like buddy the elf says "smiling is my favorite" I can't wait to help you with your smile!
Christy
Hi! My name is Christy and I am the marketing coordinator. I joined the Braces Place Team in 2023 and have almost 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!