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

Meet our Dental Hygienist Allison! Allison has been with Pequannock Valley Dental Associates since 2007. She has developed a strong and lasting relationship with so many of our patients. Her professionalism and passion for patient care exemplifies what Pequannock Valley Dental Associates is all about. Allison grew up in Pompton Plains and currently resides in Pequannock Township with her son.  She attended Pequannock Township High School and is an active member of Saint Mary’s Parish in Pompton Lakes.  Allison is a lifetime committed superfan of “BIG BLUE”, the NY Giants! She enjoys spending time in the outdoors from gardening to kayaking, horseback riding, archery and is a huge animal lover!
 
Allison has been practicing Dental Hygiene for over 32 years and has been with Pequannock Valley Dental Associates for 11 years. She graduated from Bergen Community College with her Associates of Applied Science Degree and was the recipient of the “Best Overall Dental Hygienist” in her graduating class.  She then went to Montclair State University to pursue a Bachelor's Degree in Allied Health. To further her education, she completed the Hygiene Mastership Program in Periodontal Therapy at the JP Institute for Periodontal Therapy in California. Allison continues to take courses on a yearly basis to be able to provide her patients with the highest quality of care. She has a deep passion for being an advocate for her patients and educating them on how they can improve their oral health which will also help improve their overall systemic health. Allison’s compassionate, caring and professional demeanor will assure you that you are in the right place and will strive to make your visit a very positive experience. Here’s what patients are saying about Allison, “Allie is always through and explains what is to be expected.”
 

 

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.

She has been working in the dental field for over 25 years in specialties such as Oral Surgery and Pediatrics in addition to General dentistry. Dana graduated from Bergen Community College with an Associate’s Degree in Applied Science, Dental Hygiene. She is also trained in CPR certification and OSHA regulations, and licensed to administer local anesthesia and Nitrous Oxide. Dana is always improving her knowledge of the latest products and procedures to benefit the health of our patients. Her gentle well qualified manner makes her a valuable asset to our team.  Here’s what patients are saying about Dana, “She is the best I've ever had anywhere: gentle, firm and thorough.” 
 
 
 
Reagan
 
Meet Reagan our Dental Hygienist! Reagan joined our team in September of 2018. Her upbeat, positive and courteous rapport makes her a welcomed addition to our team.  Reagan is from Midland Park and enjoys spending time with her parents, siblings their spouses and her three nephews. When not at the office she enjoys playing the violin, painting and discovering new music.  
 
Reagan attended Bergen Community College for her Dental Hygiene Degree and belonged to Sigma Phi Alpha, Dental Hygiene Honor Society. It was in hygiene school that she received her “Certificate of Dental Leadership.” Reagan is an active member in the American Dental Hygiene Association and continues to further her education by taking courses including implant home care.  She would like to continue her education by completing a Bachelor's Degree in Health Sciences in the near future. Her calm, easy going, friendly manner has been welcomed by our patients. 
 
 

 

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.

 

PV Dental Associates  

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.”

 

PV Dental Associates  

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.”