Meet the Team

Admin Team

CarlaS

Carla Samuels, Office and Operations Manager

I am the Operations and Office Manager for DFDC. I hold an Associate’s Degree of Arts from Northwest Mississippi Community College and continued my education at Union University where I graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Management. While attending school I earned memberships in Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society and Alpha Sigma Lambda Honor Society. Previously, I was employed at Smith & Nephew, Inc. in Memphis for eight years and, prior to that, worked at Hernando High School and in the Payroll Department of Desoto County Schools.

The world of dentistry is a whole new experience for me and I look forward to learning more and growing with the practice. The doctors and staff of Desoto Family Dental Care are remarkable and always have the best interest of our patients in mind. I feel privileged to be working in an environment that is making such a positive difference in people’s lives and look forward to meeting and getting to know everyone in the DFDC family. Having the opportunity to serve the community through my position here at Desoto Family Dental Care is one of the many reasons working here is such a pleasure.

I was born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, but Hernando has been my hometown since 1988. My son, Matt, and daughter, Bri, and both grew up right here in Hernando and attended Hernando schools. I feel blessed to have my children, mother, family members, and friends in Desoto County. Currently I share my home with two rescue dogs, Tucker and Mr. Pete. I am an active member and Elder at First Presbyterian Church in Hernando, where I taught children’s Sunday school for many years. My free time is spent visiting with friends, listening to music, reading, and I especially look forward to annual beach trips with family and friends. The small-town atmosphere of Hernando and the sense of community in Desoto County make this a very special place to live and work.


Alyssa Robbins

Alyssa Robbins, Insurance/Billing Coordinator

I serve as Insurance / Billing Coordinator for DFDC. I have been employed with the office since July 2010. I have over 20 years of experience in the dental field working with insurance. I gain satisfaction of a job well done when difficult claims are processed favorably for our patients. I like to see the smiles of our patients as they complete their dental work. I can clearly see that their own smiles make them feel on top of the world.
I am married to Randy and have two children, Daniel and Cristina. I enjoy antiquing and quilting. Additionally, I enjoy reading, a good movie, and spending time with family.


Angela Graves

Angela Graves, Patient Support Coordinator

I serve as Patient Support Coordinator. I was first employed at DFDC from 2001 to 2006 and rejoined the team in 2010. I have over 30 years’ experience in the dental field. I have been a dental assistant and for the last 15 years have been on the administrative team. As the Patient Support Coordinator, I like for everyone that comes through our door to feel they are a part of the DFDC family. I enjoy learning all about our patients and am willing to go the extra mile to make sure they have a pleasant experience while in the office.

I am married to Joey and have a son, Jody, a daughter, Abby, and three bonus children, Tiffany, Jackie, and Joseph. I, also, have five grandchildren. We have two dogs that are a huge part of our family. I enjoy time with my family and am an avid Ole Miss Rebel fan. I enjoy spending time at our pool, the beach, and any outside activity. My stress reliever is sewing.


Angela Graves

Krysti Anders, Patient Support Coordinator

I have been with DFDC since June of 2019, working at the front desk to ensure all of our patients have medical and demographic information up to date. I make sure every patient is checked into the system so the hygienist and assistants can get each one taken care of in a timely manner. Previously, I worked as a dental assistant for eight years and enjoy caring for the dental needs of each patient. It is my daily goal to make sure everyone who walks in the door is greeted with a smile and feels welcome.

I married my husband, Hunter, in 2012 and have been blessed with two amazing children; Paisleigh and Brayden. I enjoy having cookouts with family and friends, spending time outside working in the flower beds, traveling with family, and baking.


Kelli Cavazos

Kelli Cavazos, Hygiene Coordinator

I have been employed by DFDC since October 2013 and serve as the Hygiene Coordinator. It is my job to ensure that our patients are current with their hygiene appointments. I, also, manage the hygienist’s schedules to make certain they have the appropriate amount of time to best serve our patients. I married my husband, A.C., in 1994 and we have two children, Kalyn and Brien. My hobbies include being outdoors, watching various sporting events, church, and baking. I believe that everyone should be treated with the utmost respect they deserve at all times.


Jena McClure

Jena McClure, Insurance Coordinator

I was born and raised in a small town in Alabama. I married my husband, Brit, in 1995 and we moved to Hernando in 2000 with our twin boys. In the summer we enjoy working in our garden, fishing, reading and then hunting in the winter.
 
I began working in the Dental field in 2000. Throughout the years I have worked as a dental assistant, receptionist, and insurance verifier gaining knowledge of many areas of the practice. For the past few years, my primary role has been working with patients by helping them obtain the best benefits from their insurance company. My job is enjoyable because of the friendships that I have formed over the years. I take pleasure in getting to know the patients personally. It has been my pleasure to work with all of my teammates, who I consider my second family.


Natalie

Natalie Roux, Patient Support Coordinator

I have been with DFDC since August of 2020, working at the front desk to ensure our patients feel invited and welcome. My goal is to make sure each patient is greeted and taken care of in a timely manner. Personal attention to everyone that walks through the front door is my top priority.

I have been a patient at DFDC since 2011 and always knew I wanted to work at this amazing office. I graduated high school and attended the Delta Tech Dental Assistant program. My fiancé, Sean, and I have two sweet fur babies, Holli and Knox, and our three-legged cat, Paisley. In my spare time, I enjoy hanging out with my family and friends, shopping, and sitting on the front porch swing.


Natalie

Hannah Clements – Insurance/Patient Support Coordinator

I have been employed with DFDC since June of 2021. I work with the administrative team to ensure patient’s insurance claims are filed, payments are processed, appointments are made, and the needs of our patients are met. I enjoy learning about our patients and ensuring their dental health is taken care of correctly.

My husband and I have been married since 2018 and blessed with two handsome little boys. We, also, have three dogs that keep us on our toes. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, watching sports, and being outside hunting, fishing, or just relaxing.


Dental Assistants

Amy Wilson, Dental Assistant

I originally worked at Desoto Family Dental Care from 2006 to 2010 and rejoined the team in May of 2017, serving as Dr. Parolli’s assistant. I started in the dental field in 2003. Making a difference in our patient’s smile is an enjoyable and rewarding part of my job.

Originally, I am from Clarksdale, MS and graduated from Lee Academy. Beyond work, I have been married to Josh Wilson since 2009 and we have one wonderful son, Nolan. I love to spend time with my family, especially enjoying outdoor activities, and shopping.


Cindy

Cynthia Hill, Dental Assistant

I serve as a Dental Assistant at DFDC. I have worked in the dental field for fifteen years. I am blessed to be working with this amazing group of doctors and staff. During my time at DFDC I have enjoyed meeting, working, and interacting with new co-workers and patients. It is very rewarding to see people leave the office with their smiles restored. Outside of work, I have been happily married to my husband Daniel since 1986. We have four beautiful children, Justin, Sara, Gracie, and Caleb. My family includes three precious granddaughters, Adyson, Anna-Grace, Caroline, and two grandsons, Benton and Hudson, They keep us very busy! I enjoy camping, boating, and spending time with my family.


Shannon

Shannon Taylor, Dental Assistant

I serve as a Dental Assistant for Dr. Seymour. I have been working in the dental field since 2002, having been employed at Desoto Family Care since 2005. I love making a difference in our patients’ lives by helping them improve their smiles. I am blessed to work with a great team that comes together to help not only our patients, but our community as well. I am a 2000 graduate of Bartlett High School and 2001 graduate of Tennessee Technology of Memphis studying Dental Lab Technician/Dental Assistant.

Beyond work, I’m married to Ryan and have two active children, Chris and Avery. I enjoy watching my kids play competitive baseball/softball, shopping, and being a mom!!


Lanie Walker

Lanie Berryhill, Dental Assistant

I joined the Desoto Family Dental Care team in 2014 as Dr. Bryant Trotter’s Dental Assistant. I had four years of previous experience as a dental assistant. I received my certification from Northeast Mississippi Community College. I am very interested in our patients’ well-being and always strive to make each visit a positive experience.  I am honored to work with this awesome group of doctors and wonderful staff.

I have been with my husband Thomas since 2004.  We enjoy spending time with our three dogs, going to concerts, Memphis Grizzlies games, outdoor activities like playing disc golf, and Mississippi State sports.


Paige

Paige Street, Dental Assistant

I have been a dental assistant since 2004 and have been with the Desoto Family Dental Care team since June of 2014. I am a 2001 graduate of Olive Branch High School and a 2005 honors graduate of the Concorde College Dental Assisting program. I am so thankful to work with the amazing team here at DFDC, under Dr. Seymour’s guidance.

I’m mom to three wonderful children, Michael, Emma Claire, and Eliza Blake. They keep me super active with year-round sports! When I’m not cheering them on, I enjoy cooking and all types of sports, especially Ole Miss football!


Hillary Henderson, Dental Assistant

I have been a Dental Assistant since 2008 and joined the Desoto Family Dental Care Team in 2020. My mom was a dental hygienist, so dentistry is in my blood. I cannot imagine enjoying anything more than I do assisting. I love to listen to, talk with, and care for my patients. Since moving to Hernando I have been searching for my “forever dental family” and have found it here. The staff and patients have been most welcoming, and I am grateful to be part of DFDC.

I was born and raised in Memphis, Tn. My husband, Chance, and I married in 2007 and lived in my husband’s hometown of Carthage, MS. until his job brought us back to North Mississippi in 2019. We have two amazing children, Kailee and Bryson, who keep us busy with cheerleading and baseball. We have found a wonderful church home at Victory Baptist Church in Hernando. In my free time I enjoy taking care of our farm animals, fishing, entertaining friends, and hanging out with my family. I am so blessed to be able to see them so often again.


Kasey Ainsworth

Kasey Ainsworth, Dental Assistant

I began working for Desoto Family Dental Care in November of 2019 after graduating with honors from the dental assisting program at Delta Technical College. I have learned so much working with all three doctors and continue to learn more every day. I enjoy the relationships created with our patients and seeing them regain their confidence after restoring their smiles. I am so grateful to work with such an amazing team at DFDC.

I have been married to my husband, Eric, since 2014 and have three wonderful sons, Braxton, Lane, and Hudson. They keep us busy with baseball, football, soccer, and basketball games. In my spare time, I love spending time with my family, traveling, and shopping.


Hygienists

Carla Johnson

Carla Johnson, Registered Dental Hygienist

I am a registered dental hygienist and began working at Desoto Family Dental Care in 1994. My dental philosophy is, “maintaining good oral care is the first step to living a healthy life.” I strive to help my patients have a beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime. I received a Bachelor’s Degree in Science from University of Southern Mississippi and Pearl River Community College.

I reside in Hernando and I am married to Kevin and we have two children, Taylor and Isabella. I enjoy attending my children’s extracurricular activities within our school and community.


Adriane Strickland

Adriane Strickland, Registered Dental Hygienist

I have been a dental hygienist at Desoto Family Dental Care since 2021. I graduated with an Associate of Applied Science Degree from Northeast Mississippi Community College in 2016. My goal as a dental hygienist is to provide my patients with the knowledge to practice good oral hygiene and give them the best care possible. It is so rewarding to build long lasting relationships with my patients each visit. I am honored to be able to serve my community.

My husband and I have been married since 2016. We have two amazing children, Blakely and Myles. I enjoy shopping, traveling, and spending time with my friends and family.


Kayla Ricks

Kayla Ricks, Registered Dental Hygienist

I am a registered dental hygienist in the practice. I have been employed at Desoto Family Dental Care since April of 2013. The most fulfilling part of my job is providing quality patient care while striving to make each dental visit a pleasant experience. I enjoy working at DFDC because we work together as a team to provide the best care possible for our patients. I received my Bachelors of Science in dental hygiene from the University of Mississippi Medical Center in 2012.

My husband and I have two beautiful kids who are our world. In my free time, I enjoy shopping, spending time with my family, and cooking.


Jana Thompson

Jana Thompson, Registered Dental Hygienist

I have been practicing hygiene at Desoto Family Dental Care since 2003. I graduated with an Associate of Arts from Northwest Mississippi Community College in 1999 and from the University of Tennessee in 2001 with a Bachelor of Science.

I am married to Dustin and enjoy reading, shopping and staying fit by participating in Cross fit. I also enjoy spending time with friends, family and our canine kids, lovingly referred to as “our crazies.”
One of the most rewarding parts of my career is being provided the opportunity to form long lasting friendships with my coworkers and my patients. It’s an honor to work with people long enough to see life progress and to be able to catch up on all the exciting things that occur throughout the years. Being able to treat a patient from childhood into college, marriage, etc. and to see them grow is a true privilege.


Shannan Jackson

Shannan Jackson, Registered Dental Hygienist

I have been a part of DFDC since 2001. My first four years, I worked as a Dental Assistant. I went back to Hygiene school and graduated from the University of Mississippi Medical Center with a Hygiene Degree and a Bachelor’s Degree in Science. I was fortunate to be hired back and I am a member of our Hygiene Team. I oversee the OSHA certification in our office. I am the proud mother of a 5 year old daughter, Aubrianna. I enjoy watching my daughter play softball, and tumbling. I also enjoy going to the gym, and shopping. I believe, “that a healthy lifestyle starts with a healthy, beautiful smile.”


Thao Truong

Thao Truong, Registered Dental Hygienist

I have been a dental hygienist since 2011 and enjoy providing care for my patients of all ages. I love working with people and enjoy giving my patients knowledge and ideas on how to improve their dental health. My dental hygiene education was completed at Middle Georgia Tech in May of 2011. I joined Desoto Family Dental Care in January 2021 and am truly thankful for having found an amazing, great team to work with every day.

My family and I originally resided in Georgia for 21 years; we relocated to Hernando in 2019. In my spare time, I love to join my husband and our two sons on many camping, fishing,
and boating trips. I also enjoy cooking, exercising, and spending quality time with my family and friends.


Shelby Nelson

Shelby Nelson, Registered Dental Hygienist

I am a registered Dental Hygienist at DFDC. My career in dentistry started in 2013 when I graduated from the University of Tennessee with a Bachelor of Science degree. I believe a healthy mouth is the foundation of living a healthy lifestyle, and I enjoy helping my patients achieve that goal! One of my favorite things about my job is the relationship I can build with my patients over time.

My husband Dylan and I are the proud parents of two children, Carter and Riley Rose. In my spare time I enjoy reading, spending time with my family, and cheering on the Ole Miss Rebels!


Tracy Hill

Tracy Hill, Registered Dental Hygienist

I have been a registered dental hygienist at Desoto Family Dental since 2009. I received my Bachelor of Science in 2000 from University of Mississippi. I began my career in the dental field in Texas, later working in Georgia and now at Desoto Family Dental Care. I enjoy working with people and sharing my knowledge and ideas on how to improve their dental health.

My husband, John, and I are the proud parents of two wonderful sons, Jacob and Christian. We appreciate family vacations and quality time spent together. I enjoy interior design and, also, design and decorate Christmas trees for clients.


Lab Techs

Wanda Free

Wanda Free, Lab Technician

My occupation is being a dental technician.  Dentistry has been part of my life since 1978.  I have been employed at DFDC since October of 1996. I earned my certification in February of 2002.  Seeing the before and after smiles of our patients is very fulfilling.

My husband Danny and I have two sons and two grandsons.  My leisure time is filled with family and friends.


Coy

Coy Sellers, Lab Technician

I am a second-generation Dental Lab Technician. I worked with my father in his lab from 1978 until 2001. In 2002 I opened my own lab and operated it until 2020. At that time, I was given the opportunity to work with this great team.

God has truly blessed me. I have been married to my wife, Vicki, since 1985. We have a son, Coy, and a daughter, Cari, and two awesome grandchildren. I enjoy vacations and hanging out with my family and working and racing old cars.


Amanda Gaines

Amanda Gaines, Lab Technician

I serve the Desoto Family Dental Care team as a dental lab technician. I joined the team in 2022 shortly after graduating from Delta Technical College. The most fulfilling part of my job is seeing the positive impact dental restorations can make on the lives of our patients. It is a privilege to be able to help our patients improve their smile!

My fiancé, Andrew, and I reside in Hernando with our fur baby Maple. Beyond work, I enjoy reading, gardening, cooking, and spending time with friends and family.