Meet Our Team
Hygiene Team
Our gentle, precise, highly skilled and educated hygiene team will put your mind at ease at PVDA. Together, they promote oral health, overall wellness and comfort to every patient. Our patients know they are always receiving superior care.
Melissa Obrotka
Melissa A. Obrotka, BA, RDH, holds over 25 years of experience in the dental field and concentrated clinical experience with the dental implant patient population. Melissa’s core objectives for patient care are focused on a “wholestic” approach to dental prevention, disease remission, and therapies that encompass total body health and wellness. Her approach to patient care is focused on biofilm disruption strategies for periodontal and peri-implant health and longevity while providing healthcare advocacy to patients. Obrotka is a dental hygiene motivator, educator, podcast host, change agent, influencer, and industry thought leader. Obrotka is a clinical adjunct professor at her alma mater, Bergen Community College in Paramus, New Jersey, where she elevates clinical education by instructing students on oral microbiome and bacterial disruption methodologies. Obrotka was nationally recognized in 2016 as a Master Clinician for her outstanding clinical expertise. In 2017, Obrotka was named one of the “Six Dental Hygienists You Want to Know’’ by Dimensions of Dental Hygiene.
Allison Noorani
Dana Fontana
Meet Dana, our Dental Hygienist! Her attention to detail and enthusiasm to maintain high standards in the profession are truly appreciated by the patients she sees. Dana, has been with our office since 2017. When not at the office she enjoys spending time with her family and her boxer pup, running and practicing yoga.
Assistant Team
Our assistants will ensure you have a fantastic dental visit, easing your mind and all your concerns. They are highly trained and educated in providing each patient with the care and comfort they need during your appointment.
Linda Lacherza
Meet Linda, our loyal and compassionate dental assistant. Linda, has been with Pequannock Valley Dental Associates for over 11 years. She brings a wealth of knowledge in dental assisting and has an uncanny ability to make patients feel at comfort throughout the duration of their appointment. Linda is an avid football fan and a dedicated superfan to the Minnesota Vikings! When not at the office Linda enjoys spending quality time with her husband who she has been married to for 39 years. She also has two beautiful daughters who are very accomplished and make her proud. Linda attended Bogota High School and received her assisting degree from Lyons Institute for Dental Assisting. She continues to elevate her education and personal growth by attending seminars out in Scottsdale Arizona at the Spear Center. Here’s what people are saying about Linda. “She is ready and prepared in assisting Dr. Marino.” Her cheerful and friendly manner makes me feel so relieved.”
Cara
Meet Cara! Cara has a magical way about her and knows exactly what to do to provide much comfort to the patients so they are at great ease. She will be sure to put a smile on your face. You can find Cara sitting courtside cheering on her favorite college basketball team, The Blue Devils! Cara enjoys spending quality time traveling with her husband Joe and soon to be little boy in July of 2019. Cara grew up in Pompton Plains and attended Berdan Institute for her assisting degree,CDA and is currently working towards her expanded functions certification. Here’s what people are saying about Cara: “She’s a doll.” “I would have been much more nervous if Cara did not hold my hand.” “LOVE the Dental Assistant Cara.”