2025 Top Dentists

You know the drill! Get your oral health into gear with our exclusive list of the Valley’s most high-performing dentists. The 2025 crop includes 170 clinicians spanning 10 distinct dental specialties.  

Edited by Leah LeMoine, Craig Outhier, Madison Rutherford & Nora Burba Trulsson

Photography by Steve Craft

Scott Harris
Cosmetic Dentistry
Dental School: University of the Pacific, 2007
Years in Practice: 18

You come from a long family line of Top Dentists, including your dad, Joseph, and brother, Brian. Was it an easy career choice to follow them into dentistry? 

Yes! As a teenager, I spent every summer working for my dad. I would do odd jobs around the office and run errands for him. Seeing his excitement and daily interactions with patients sparked my interest in cosmetic dentistry, and I never looked back.

What are “prepless veneers”? 

Porcelain veneers are a thin covering that can be bonded to a tooth to change the shape, size or color of the tooth. When teeth are spaced or undersized, we can bond the veneers over the surfaces of the teeth with little or no tooth reduction. We refer to this type of veneer as a “prepless” veneer.

Why would a patient choose this option vs. traditional veneers? 

I try to always treat a patient as conservatively as possible. Some people need traditional veneers to address their concerns, but when it is an option to avoid tooth reduction, patients always appreciate a more conservative approach.

Can you walk us through what goes into a “smile makeover”? How do you ensure that the results
look natural and not “overdone”? 

I’m big on communication. Before I start the design process on somebody’s smile, I like to know what type of smile looks good in their eyes. For example, some people prefer teeth with rounded corners or variations in length. Other people prefer a smile that is more even and uniform. We plan out every step of the process to ensure that the end result accomplishes the patient’s goals. I use temporary veneers as a rough draft for the final veneers [so] the patient is able to test drive their new smile.

What recent techniques or technology do you feel are revolutionizing the field of cosmetic dentistry? 

Social media and the ability to do virtual consultations has changed dentistry! It has opened many doors and allowed me to reach and treat people that I would otherwise not have met. I have had people travel from nearly every state and several other countries to see me in Phoenix, which I think is incredible.

What’s the funniest thing a patient has said to you on nitrous oxide?  

I had a lady in her late 80s squeeze my leg and say, “It feels as good as it looks.” The funny part was that she was not even on nitrous, just feeling a little cheeky. 

“If I wasn’t a dentist, I’d be…” 

A U.S. Navy Seal. I have a huge appreciation for our military.

Lawlay Azizi
General Dentistry
Dental School: Boston University, 2007
Years in Practice: 18 

You have experience in both pediatric and geriatric dentistry. In what ways do the needs of young and older patients differ? In what ways are they similar?

Both age groups benefit from preventive measures such as regular check-ups, cleaning and education on oral hygiene, [and both] also benefit from an interdisciplinary approach, where other health-care providers [collaborate] to manage systemic health issues. Some differences include anatomy – older patients may face issues related to tooth wear, loss and changes in bone density – and behavioral management.

What are in-lays and on-lays?

They’re types of dental restorations used to repair damaged or decayed teeth. In-lays are custom-made restorations that fit within the confines of a tooth. On-lays, sometimes referred to as “partial crowns,” extend over one or more cusps of the tooth. They are used when the damage is more extensive than what an in-lay can cover but is less severe than requiring a full crown.

Which at-home tools and products do you recommend to your patients?

Definitely electric toothbrushes, which provide a more thorough clean compared to manual brushes. Also, fluoride toothpaste and water flossers. [I also recommend] tongue scrapers… these help remove bacteria and debris from the tongue’s surface, promoting fresher breath and better oral hygiene.

What oral health myths or misconceptions do you hear most often?

You only need to visit the dentist when you have a problem. Also, “Sugar is the only cause of cavities.” While sugar contributes to tooth decay, other factors such as poor oral hygiene, acidic foods and genetics also play significant roles in cavity formation.

You matriculated in Boston! What do you miss most about Massachusetts?

Boston is a city rich in history and culture. I miss the iconic sites like the Freedom Trail, the vibrant atmosphere of Harvard Square, and the delicious clam chowder from local eateries. The blend of old and new architecture, the passionate sports culture and the beautiful parks, like the Boston Common, also make it a memorable place. The energy of the city, especially during events like the Boston Marathon.

What is the funniest thing a patient has said to you on nitrous oxide?

“I feel like a superhero! Can I fly home after this?”

“If I wasn’t a dentist, I’d be…”

I might consider being a pilot, or perhaps an explorer! The thrill of flying and discovering new places is quite appealing.

LisaMarie Sarhangian
Oral/Maxillofacial Surgery
Dental School: University of the Pacific, 2011
Years in Practice: 14 

What is the most challenging procedure you perform as an oral surgeon?

Sometimes, it’s patient management that is most challenging. Patients with complex medical histories, including radiation to the structures of the head and neck, or who are currently undergoing medical management for systemic diseases such as cancer, require special precautions, multi-practitioner coordination and thoughtful consideration to various components of their care.

Your clinic was the first in Arizona to utilize Yomi, the first FDA-approved robot-assisted dental surgery system. How has this improved the accuracy and volume of surgeries you’re able to perform?

While the robot does not act independently, it assists all aspects of implant surgery. Using real-time patient tracking and multisensory feedback, it guides our hands to the angulation and location we have pre-planned, allowing for more accurate implant placement. We can make changes intraoperatively if needed, so this couples robotic precision with our surgical decision-making.

What other digital tools or technologies help you plan and execute procedures?

We can pre-plan surgeries virtually on a CT scan prior to even starting surgery. This allows for planning implant placement exactly where we want it, avoiding important anatomical structures, such as nerve and sinus cavities. We are also able to coordinate virtually with a patient’s dentist and the dental lab technician to ensure proper placement, since the dentist will be making the crown that goes on the implant.

You did your residency at a VA hospital in Los Angeles. How did that experience shape your practice?

Being able to work with veterans was such an honor. Helping take care of people who have sacrificed so much for everyone else will certainly change one’s perspective. Every patient has a story, every patient is going through something, whether it pertains to their oral condition or not. Trying to be helpful and assist in their path to wellness is how I hope to position myself.

What’s your favorite “bad for teeth” food or drink? 

Popcorn. Seems like many problems start with popcorn.

What’s the funniest thing a patient has said to you on nitrous oxide? 

“You look like Tina Fey.” 

“If I wasn’t an oral surgeon, I’d be…”  

An attorney. They seem to have it good.

Chad Foster
Orthodontics
Dental School: University of Southern California
Years in Practice: 15

Did you have braces as a kid? How have the options for teeth-straightening changed since then?

Yes, I did. I could fit a pencil between the space of my front two teeth when I was a kid! So much has changed since then, but what I love most is that no other doctor on the planet can so dramatically and naturally impact facial balance like an orthodontist can. 

You are a self-proclaimed “orthodontic nerd.” What first caught your interest about the field of orthodontics? What keeps you invested?

Without a doubt, aesthetics of the face and smile have my deepest nerd love. Orthodontics at the highest level is so much more than straightening teeth. Facial height and shape, lips, chin and the way the teeth project within the smile are all within the art of what I do every day.    

What are the most exciting innovations in modern orthodontics?

For me personally, it’s how modern orthodontic treatments using minimally invasive adjunct procedures are able to correct complex issues that previously could only be addressed surgically. 

In addition to owning your practice, Butterfly Orthodontics, you serve as the editorial director of the largest orthodontic publication in the U.S., Orthotown Magazine. What are the pros and cons of juggling multiple roles?

I really love writing, almost as much as I love practicing orthodontics. Through the magazine, I’m able to shine a light on topics within the profession that I am passionate about. More importantly, though, I’m able to shine that same light on my amazing orthodontic colleagues around the world.  

Fun fact: You’re an Arizona native whose family owns the legendary Pete’s Fish & Chips! What’s your go-to order at Pete’s?

I love everything on the menu, but it has to start with the fish paired with Pete’s secret sauce. My wife and I love riding our bikes with our kids to the Arcadia location and telling them about the legend of Grandpa Pete. He was an amazing man and my hero. 

“If I wasn’t a dentist, I’d be…” 

I would be a traveling nomad with a pen and paper making a living off writing somehow. It would be a distant second choice to what I am now, though. I love orthodontics – for me, it is far beyond a simple trade of time for money like many jobs. I dream about it day and night.  

Veronica Martinez
Pediatric Dentistry
Dental School: Marquette University School of Dentistry, 2006
Years in Practice: 19

What do you remember about visiting the dentist as a child? How do those memories inform your approach to your young patients?

I have such fun and positive memories of visiting my childhood dentist, Dr. Rosen. I always felt completely safe and even looked forward to each visit. The hygienist, Debbie, loved Garfield and had Garfield posters on the ceiling, so when I laid back in the chair, I had something fun to look at. Today, instead of posters on the ceiling, we have TVs where children can pick their favorite shows, and every visit ends with a trip to the treasure tower for a toy!

At what age should a child have their first dental visit? What can parents do to help in between visits?

Ideally, a child should have their first dental visit [shortly after] birth. These early visits allow us to evaluate for any oral restrictions such as tongue ties, and to begin a conversation with parents about feeding practices, oral development and cavity prevention.

Your own daughter is currently in a pediatric dental residency at Tufts University. What did you teach her about dental care growing up?

Honestly, I learned some hard lessons early on. I had my daughter while I was still in high school, and I did not yet understand how damaging constant snacks and juice could be. I took her to a pediatric dentist and was heartbroken when I found out she had several cavities. I cried because I felt like I had let her down. From that moment on, I removed all the sugary drinks from our home, including juice and soda, and started limiting snacks. That experience really shaped how I parented and how I practice.

Your online bio piqued our curiosity: Which animal did you have on your childhood farm?

I grew up on a small farm in Richfield, Wisconsin, and for a short time we raised pigs. Our neighbors had cows, horses and sheep, so animals were always part of our everyday life. My “playroom” was a big red barn: full of hay bales, secret hideouts and endless possibilities for adventure.

What do you miss most about Wisconsin? 

I really miss summers in Wisconsin. I loved going “up north” to the lakes, spending time in Door County and visiting the Wisconsin Dells. And, of course, I miss the Packers! 

What’s the funniest thing a patient has said to you while on nitrous oxide?

One of my patients turned to their mom during treatment and said, with total sincerity, “Wow, Mom, I really love this stuff!” It was hilarious and still makes me laugh today.

“If I wasn’t a dentist, I’d be…”

A lawyer, without a doubt. Ever since I was in elementary school, I dreamed of becoming a family law attorney. I was always drawn to helping people through difficult times and being a strong, compassionate advocate for those who needed support. 

Nate Farley
Prosthodontics
Dental School: Ohio State University, 2008
Years in Practice: 14 

What kind of surgical skills does one need to place dental implants? Is special post-collegiate training required?  

Attention to detail and following the basics of implantology are usually enough to have success. Much of the basics, though, are truly learned through experience. Before I started placing implants, I first learned the right way to restore them. That base knowledge makes all the difference when placing them.

Your interest in 3D modeling and animation dovetailed with your interest in dentistry. How do you use those skills at work? 

My college years and my hobby of 3D modeling, printing and a little animation gives me a unique perspective in today’s digital dentistry space. I’ve understood the digital tools and equipment on a deeper level, which has made it possible to push the limits of this niche in our profession.

How long do dental restorations typically last, and what actions can a patient take to increase their longevity?

Dental restorations have the potential to last a lifetime. While they are not indestructible, the patient’s teeth usually fail before the restoration. For example, the most common reason for replacing a crown is decay getting under the crown, not the material itself. The answer, therefore, is usually better hygiene.

You’re a big hiker and biker! Favorite local trails?

We like to bike from the Tempe Marketplace Trail, across the Tempe Town Lake Pedestrian Bridge, and up into Scottsdale. For hiking, the best in Arizona has been Havasupai, which is amazing. But more locally, our favorite spots are Flat Iron, Echo Trail at Camelback [Mountain] and San Tan Mountain Regional Park.

What’s your favorite “bad for teeth” food or drink?  

I do love sticky and gummy treats, with black licorice pretty high on that list. I’ve always had a sweet tooth, so I’m [also] a sucker for ice cream and chocolate, especially if peanut butter or salt is added.

What’s the funniest thing a patient has said to you on nitrous oxide?  

Well, maybe not funny for everyone involved, but notable for sure. We had a younger patient choose to take the last few seconds before the sedation really kicked in to tell his mom she was going to be a grandma… but not in a happy and expected way. Oh, no!

“If I wasn’t a dentist, I’d be…” 

Probably an engineer of some type. Still designing and 3D printing, just structures other than implant-supported teeth. I have an entrepreneurial mind that would really have fun with the knowledge of how to create more things! Right now, that is what I envision retirement to look like.