Meet The Team

About Dr. Taylor

Born in Roanoke, VA, Dr. Corey Taylor became interested in dentistry for its inherent ability to immediately improve a person’s quality of life. He is devoted to caring and comforting those in need.

Dr. Taylor is a proud Hokie, receiving his Bachelor of Science at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, VA.  He then traveled to Richmond, VA., where he attended Virginia Commonwealth University and was awarded a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree finishing in the top 5% of his class. During that time, his experience in the operating room fostered an interest in surgery. He continued to widen his experience through participation in research projects and volunteering for mission of mercy and RAM projects where he provided dental care to the underserved. Dr. Taylor believes that experience and diligence to continuing education is the best way to serve patients. As a result, he attended an MD-integrated oral and maxillofacial surgery program at the University of Kentucky in Lexington, where he obtained his medical degree and graduated with distinction. His extensive experience at UK both in the operating room and clinical settings helped expand his knowledge and expertise in oral and maxillofacial surgery. Dr. Taylor had the privilege to serve as chief resident during his final year there.

Dr. Taylor’s specialties in oral and maxillofacial surgery include extractions, removal of wisdom teeth, implants, bone grafting, corrective jaw surgery , biopsies, pathology, and facial trauma surgery. He incorporates the latest dental technology to improve the accuracy and predictability of dental implants and corrective jaw surgery, known as orthognathic surgery. His extensive education and experience with anesthesia also gives him the ability to perform these procedures safely and comfortably in the office.

In his free time, Dr. Taylor enjoys spending time with his wife and daughters, exploring parks and outdoor spaces. He enjoys cooking, golfing, and gardening. He and his family are looking forward to growing roots in Charlotte and serving their community.

Education:
Virginia Tech: B.S. in Biological Sciences
Virginia Commonwealth University: D.D.S. degree
University of Kentucky: M.D. degree
University of Kentucky: General Surgery Internship
University of Kentucky: Chief Resident, OMS Certificate

Memberships:
American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
American College of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
American College of Surgeons
North Carolina Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons

About Dr. Patel

Dr. Sneha Patel is extremely dedicated to the overall health and well-being of her patients. She is always available to his patients and prides herself on offering them the highest level of dentistry. It is her mission to create a strong dentist-patient relationship and then execute comprehensive dentistry.

Dr. Patel obtained her dental degree from the University of Minnesota with distinction. She has a dental degree from India as well. She is committed to continuing education to constantly learn new dental skills to better serve her patients. She believes in giving back to the community through various dental missions at home and abroad.

She practiced in Florida before moving to North Carolina and now calls Charlotte her home. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, travelling and painting.

Dr. Patel speaks English, Gujarati and Hindi.

About Dr. L’Huillier

Dr. L’Huillier is an accomplished dentist and scientist.

She completed her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine and PhD from the Rutgers School of Biomedical Sciences.

Dr. L’Huillier has dedicated her career to finding the best way to solve patients’ oral health problems and optimizing their dental care. With her strong background, she brings both the latest knowledge and a gentle, holistic approach to her patients.

Before settling in Charlotte, Dr. L’Huillier practiced as a dentist in multiple states including Connecticut, Maryland, and South Carolina. She values innovation, health, and happiness above all, and always strives to treat every patient with personalized care and kindness.

Dr. L’Huillier is always here for you!

About Dr. Vidalon

Dr. Christian Vidalon, a South Florida native, earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Nova Southeastern University before continuing to the University of Florida for dental school. His commitment to academic excellence and leadership during dental school earned him induction into the prestigious Omicron Kappa Upsilon national dental honor society.

After graduating, Dr. Vidalon practiced general dentistry in Central Florida for three years. It was during this time that he discovered his true passion for orthodontics, leading him to pursue specialized training. He completed his orthodontic residency at BronxCare Hospital in the Bronx, NY, where he honed his skills in creating beautiful, confident smiles for patients of all ages.

When his residency training was complete, Dr. Vidalon relocated to Charlotte with his wife to be closer to family. Outside of the office, he enjoys a variety of hobbies that reflect his creativity and hands-on nature. Whether he’s making music with synthesizers, dancing to techno music, baking sourdough bread, or tending to his beekeeping, Dr. Vidalon brings a unique blend of precision, artistry, and dedication to everything he does.

Dr. Vidalon is committed to providing personalized orthodontic care, ensuring that each patient feels comfortable and confident throughout their treatment journey. He looks forward to setting strong roots in the community while providing high quality dental care.

About Dr. Forrest

After completing her Bachelor of Science in biology from the University of Florida, Dr. Mallary Forrest, DDS, MSc earned her dental degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore in 2011. While in dental school, Dr. Forrest was invited into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon Dental Honor Society and graduated in the top of her class. Upon completion of her dental degree, Dr. Forrest served the Charlotte area as a general dentist for over 6 years. While she enjoyed her time practicing general dentistry and gained invaluable experience, Dr. Forrest decided to hone her skills and specialize in the field of orthodontics. Orthodontics was the natural choice for her as it encompasses all the aspects of dentistry she values the most, culminating lasting relationships with her patients while helping them realize their dream of a beautiful smile. During her training at UNLV, Dr. Forrest earned an Orthodontic certificate and a Master of Science in oral biology while conducting extensive research in oral cancer.

Dr. Forrest’s broad range of experience in the dental field allows her to provide top of the line orthodontics tailored to fit your specific needs and desires. She is dedicated to taking the time to determine the best treatment modality and providing optimum results to create beautiful smiles that not only increases her patient’s confidence, but also sets them up for a lifetime of oral health and function.

Dr. Forrest is married to her high school sweetheart, Matt, a physical education teacher. Together, they have two daughters. In her spare time, she enjoys being a mom, cooking, playing sports, and enjoying outdoor activities with her family.

About Dr. Kotis

Dr. Amanda Kotis is a highly skilled and compassionate dentist who understands the challenges of fear, shame, and financial struggles that often stand in the way of patients seeking dental care. She works to establish a clear and trusted plan for comprehensive treatments, inspiring patients to take the necessary steps toward achieving optimal oral health. Her mission is to empower individuals to embrace their circumstances and realize their potential for a beautiful, healthy smile.

Originally from North Carolina, Dr. Kotis earned her undergraduate degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she double-majored in Psychology and African Studies. She went on to complete her Master’s Degree in Industrial/Organizational Psychology at UNC Charlotte before pursuing dental school at the University of Kentucky. After earning her DMD, she furthered her education with a one-year General Practice Residency at Carolinas Medical Center (now Atrium Health), where she gained valuable experience in hospital dentistry, cancer patient treatment planning, and emergency clinic care. This extensive training deepened her passion for helping patients navigate challenging circumstances, and her approach reflects the humility and respect she feels for those in her care.

Dr. Kotis spent 10 years successfully running her own dental practice in Statesville, NC, and also had the privilege of completing an Implant Dentistry Fellowship with the International Dental Implant Association. She further expanded her qualifications by becoming a certified dental sleep medicine dentist, an IPEC-certified coach, and a Christian Mental Health Coach. She also became certified to offer minimal sedation dentistry in her office, a service she provided until she sold her practice.

After overcoming breast cancer treatment, Dr. Kotis returned to work at Friendly Dental on a part-time basis, allowing her to spend more time with her children, Tucker and Layla. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, hiking, traveling, fly fishing, volunteering, cooking, and spending time with her family.

With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Kotis is highly skilled in dental implant placement, complex extractions, bone grafting, emergency treatments, and caring for patients facing medical challenges. Whether you need a broken tooth fixed, a root canal or extraction, or extensive full-mouth rehabilitation, including crowns, bridges, or implant-supported dentures, she has the expertise to help. Dr. Kotis has placed and restored numerous implants, is available for same-day extractions and crown/bridge treatments, and has completed full-mouth rehabilitations, including both crown cases and implant-supported dentures.

Pavana Karanth

Dr. Pavana Karanth is passionate about dentistry and has been practicing since 2004. She obtained her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. She is an active member of the American Dental Association, The North Carolina Dental Association and the Molis Coaching Academy. She has completed several advanced courses in implant dentistry, Invisalign, and cosmetic dentistry to allow her to remain current in cutting edge technology.
Dr. Karanth, also known as Dr. K, is well regarded by her patients for being a kind and considerate dentist. She is respectful of patients’ individual needs and concerns. Throughout her 20 plus year career, she has developed a reputation for being conscientious and providing patients with the highest quality of care. Her gentle and calm disposition ensures patients have an excellent experience when they visit the dental office.
Outside of work, Dr. Karanth loves spending time with her husband and two sons. She likes to stay active and you can find her taking exercise classes at the YMCA, running, and walking. She enjoys reading fiction, shopping, and checking out new restaurants that Charlotte constantly has to offer.

Becky Ciccione

Dr. Ciccione is a passionate dentist as well as a dedicated mother to three young children. She graduated from the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry in 2010, and over the past decade, she has honed her diagnostic and clinical skills to provide exceptional patient care. Dr. Ciccione is passionate about delivering quality care, listening attentively to her patients, offering tailored treatment options, and building long-lasting relationships. She thrives on the technical, hands-on aspects of dentistry and has a particular passion for surgical procedures. She can provide services ranging from extractions to cosmetic veneers/crowns and everything in between including headache/sleep apnea appliances, Invisalign and compassionate pediatric care.

Since moving to Charlotte in 2017, Dr. Ciccione has enjoyed balancing her professional life with her family life, alongside her husband Joe and their three children. Compassionate, energetic, and positive, she is family- oriented and often spends her free time exploring parks, nature preserves and children’s activities around Charlotte. Dr. Ciccione’s commitment to her patients and her community is evident in every aspect of her practice.

Michael Danze

Dr. Michael Danze is a general restorative, cosmetic dentist who began practicing dentistry in Charlotte and Matthews in 1991. He has over 33 years of experience and knowledge in his field of general dentistry. He received his undergraduate degree in microbiology from the University of Florida in 1984, and his DMD degree from the University of Florida College of Dentistry in 1990. Dr. Danze is a current member of the American Dental Association and the North Carolina Dental Society.

Dr. Danze grew up in New Jersey and South Florida. He and his wife Lori have been happily married for 37 years. They are proud parents of four children: two young men, Adam and Matthew, and two young women, Gillian and Sydney. Their son Adam, and his wife Kaitlin, recently began their dual Orthodontist/Pediatric dentistry practice in Charlotte. Their daughter Sydney is currently a first-year dental student attending the UNC Dental School in Chapel Hill, NC. Their daughter Gillian works in the Public Health field in Asheville, NC, and their son Matthew is currently a graduate intern student at Sherman College of Chiropractic in Spartanburg, SC. Dr. Danze has been active in the NC Missions of Mercy free dental clinics.

During his free time, Dr. Danze enjoys cheering on the Florida Gators basketball and football teams, and the Carolina Panthers. He also loves traveling with his wife, Lori, gardening, and spending time with his family, his two dogs and his cat.

Jasenna Johnson

Dr. Jasenna Johnson is a native North Carolinian. She completed her undergraduate studies at UNC-Chapel Hill and went on to earn her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tennessee.  After graduation, Dr. Johnson relocated to our nation’s capital where she completed her specialty training at Howard University’s College of Dentistry, Department of Orthodontics.  

In her spare time, Dr. Johnson and her family enjoy traveling and trying various cuisines.