Meet the Team

Carmen Bollinger

FAADOM, Chief Operating Officer

Carmen has been an integral part of Bander Dental Group since 2001, helping guide the practice through more than two decades of growth, change, and innovation. She joined the practice with a background in business, hotel, and sales management and quickly discovered a passion for dentistry, leadership, and building an exceptional organization.

During her 25 years with Bander Dental Group, Carmen has helped lead its evolution from a small three-operatory practice into the thriving organization it is today, with four doctors, 15 operatories, and a team of more than 30 dental professionals.

As Chief Operating Officer, Carmen partners with Dr. Travis Mattson to lead the strategic and operational direction of Bander Dental Group. Her focus extends across nearly every aspect of the organization—from business strategy and financial performance to systems, team development, culture, and the patient experience. She is especially energized by growth, innovation, and finding better ways to help both the practice and its people thrive.

One of Carmen’s greatest passions is bringing people together around a shared vision. She believes that a great organization is built not only through excellent systems and high standards, but through strong relationships, collaboration, and a culture where people genuinely enjoy working together. She is particularly proud of the team and culture that have grown alongside Bander Dental Group.

Carmen is a Fellow of the American Association of Dental Office Management (FAADOM) and remains passionate about learning, leadership, and the connection between oral health and overall health and wellness.

Outside the office, Carmen and her husband, Brad, are enjoying the empty-nester chapter of life. Their family includes daughter Alexis, stepsons David and Joel, and their two cats, Cannoli and Tiramisu. Carmen loves entertaining, cooking, traveling, spending time with family and close friends—and finding plenty of reasons to laugh along the way.

Sara

CDA, Assistant Practice Manager

I joined the Bander Dental Group team as a dental assistant in July 2009. I graduated from the Grand Rapids Educational Center in 1998 with a degree in Dental Assisting and have worked in the dental field ever since. I continued my education and became a Certified Dental Assistant.

After more than 20 years as a chairside dental assistant, I transitioned into the business office, where I now serve as Treatment Coordinator and Business Office Manager. In this role, I meet with patients to review their dental treatment, answer questions, help them understand their options, and support them in moving forward with the care they need to improve their health.

One of the things I enjoy most about my role is building relationships with patients and helping them understand the importance of their oral health. I believe better overall health can start with a healthy mouth, and I want to help each patient feel informed, comfortable, and confident as they take that first step toward better health. It is rewarding to help patients understand their treatment and feel empowered to make decisions that can positively impact their health and quality of life.

My husband and I have been married since 2003, and we have a son, Weston. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, as well as my cat, Hardy. I also enjoy drawing and painting, a bad golf game with my son, spending time outdoors in the woods or near the water, and reading.

My husband and I have been married since 2003 and have a son. I enjoy spending time with family, hunting, going to the beach and reading.

Lisa

Billing and Insurance Specialist

I graduated from Ferris State University with my Bachelor’s degree in healthcare systems administration in 2012. I joined Bander Dental Group in August 2020 with over 6 years of experience in medical billing. I have always been interested in the dental field and look forward to helping patients with their dental benefits and insurance questions.

I live in Hudsonville with my husband and two children, Emma and Grayson. In my free time I enjoy camping, kayaking, bike riding, and spending time with my family and friends.

Abraham

Scheduling Coordinator

I joined the extraordinary Bander Dental Group team in 2020 with 2 years of dental experience. I am continually amazed and thankful to have found such a wonderful and caring team to work with. I truly believe everyone here is not only phenomenal in what they do but also that they genuinely care about making patients feel comfortable and welcomed.

I grew up in the Grand Rapids area then moved to Florida in 2012, and came back in the spring of 2019. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family who lives here in the West Michigan area and trying all the dining West Michigan has to offer.

Bailey

Scheduling Coordinator

I was born and raised in Texas, and moved to Michigan in late 2020. I’ve been in the medical / dental field for 4 years. Fitness and health is my true passion and I enjoy working out almost everyday. The health aspect of dentistry excites me in addition to the cosmetic side. I love being able to help others achieve their goals. I now have the joy of calling Bander Dental Group my home. I’ve never been a part of a team who is as welcoming, inclusive, informative, and so much fun!

My boyfriend, Ben, and I like to spend our time on the lake or at the petting zoo with family. We also have two dogs, Sif and Willow.

Liza

Scheduling Coordinator

I joined Bander Dental Group in 2026, bringing five years of experience in the dental field. My dental journey has given me the opportunity to experience several sides of dentistry—from working as a sterilization technician and in the dental lab fabricating and mounting models to eventually transitioning to the front desk. Dentistry definitely runs in the family, as both my mom and sister are also in the field!

Outside of the office, I love spending time with my wonderful husband, Matt, and our adorable rescue cat, Clementine. In my free time, you can usually find me golfing with Matt, knitting, or tinkering with my collection of fountain pens. And one fun fact you might not expect—I’m also a pilot!

Brigitte

Front Desk

I joined Bander Dental Group in November 2025, beginning as a Sterilization Technician before transitioning to the front desk. I earned my degree in Communications from the University of Michigan and have spent more than 16 years working in healthcare.

I began my career at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital, where I worked as a Nursing Technician on a general pediatric floor and later in Pediatric Sedation. It was there that I discovered how rewarding it is to be part of someone’s healthcare journey and to make a positive difference in their experience. As a true “people person,” I love connecting with patients, building relationships, and helping them feel welcomed and cared for from the moment they walk through our doors.

Outside of the office, my husband, Jack, and I have been married for 34 years and are proud parents of four children—Jack III, Stephanie, Blake, and Heidi. In November 2025, our family grew again when we welcomed our first grandchild, Jack IV!

I’m also a die-hard Michigan Wolverines and Detroit Lions fan, so during football season there’s a good chance you’ll find me parked in front of the TV cheering them on! I also love spending time with my family, shopping, traveling, and attending Lions games whenever I get the chance.

Kay

Treatment Coordinator

After growing up in a dental office, I officially joined the dental field in 2008. I was lucky enough to join the Bander Dental Group family in 2025 as a treatment coordinator. I enjoy helping our patients feel comfortable, understood, and supported every step of the way. I know coming to the dentist can be stressful for some, so l do my best to make things easier-whether that’s walking you through a treatment plan, answering your questions, or just sharing a smile. It means a lot to me to be someone patients can count on—not just for information, but for a little kindness too. Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my family and my dogs (I’m always happy to talk about my husky, Izzy, or my pug, Oliver). We love spending time camping, watching dirt track races, and attending concerts.

Amy

RDH, Lead Dental Hygienist

I am very honored to have joined Bander Dental Group, February of 2023 as a registered Dental Hygienist. Here, I get to work with a very talented team. I bring with me 19 years of Dental Hygiene experience. I graduated from Ferris State University in 2004 with an Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene. I am also a certified health coach through the Institute of Integrative Nutrition-New York. My passion is educating patients on the oral systemic connection and teaching them to not only improve their oral health but also their overall health. Throughout my career, I have been blessed to have attended many continuing education courses that have improved my knowledge in many areas of dentistry. I love learning and expanding my knowledge in health and wellness.

At home, I enjoy spending time with my family. My husband Randy and I have 2 children, Brynleigh age 7 and Bradford age 5. We have a very active Australian Shepard-Louis. I enjoy walking, running, being on the water and the outdoors.

Kendra

RDH, Dental Hygienist

I’ve been part of the Bander Dental Group family for over five years. I began my career here as a dental assistant, and my passion for patient care and oral health inspired me to further my education and become a dental hygienist. I earned my Associate’s Degree in Applied Science in Dental Hygiene from Grand Rapids Community College in 2024. Today, I bring that same dedication and growing expertise to every patient I see.

I find joy in working closely with my patients to help them understand the importance of oral health and its connection to overall body health. It’s my goal to ensure every patient feels welcomed, comfortable, and confident in the care they receive at our practice. When I’m not in the office, I enjoy hunting, fishing, bowling, and traveling. I’m engaged to my best friend and am a proud stepmom to two beautiful daughters, Hannah and Braelynn. I’m also a devoted dog mom to my two rambunctious fur baby sons, Finn and Marlin.

Tori

RDH, Dental Hygienist

Tori has been a dental hygienist for 6 years and is a proud GRCC graduate. She joined Bander Dental Group in 2025 and is passionate about creating a comfortable, welcoming experience for every patient while helping them feel confident in their smile.

Outside of the office, Tori enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter, caring for her three cats, cooking, staying active, and enjoying her love for animals. She and her husband also own their own business, so she’s always keeping busy and embracing new adventures!

Tori believes that exceptional dental care is about more than a healthy smile—it’s about making every patient feel genuinely cared for.

Ismelda

RDH, Dental Hygienist

I have been a Registered Dental Hygienist for more than six years and graduated from the Dental Hygiene program at Grand Rapids Community College in 2020. I’m passionate about educating patients and helping them understand the important role oral health plays in their overall well-being. I especially enjoy working alongside patients to help them achieve and maintain a healthy smile.

I was born and raised in Grand Rapids and am proud to be the daughter of immigrants. I am bilingual and fluent in Spanish, which allows me to help Spanish-speaking patients feel more comfortable and confident in understanding their dental care.

Outside of the office, my favorite role is being a mom. I love spending time with my daughter, taking walks, reading a good book—especially on a rainy day—and watching comedy movies.

Jessica

RDH, Dental Hygienist, Myofunctional Therapist

I am so excited to introduce myself as one of Bander Dental Group’s Dental Hygienists and as the new Myofunctional Therapist in the office. I have been with Bander Dental Group since September of 2025, and I have been dedicated to healthcare since 2008.

Right out of high school, I began my career as a CENA working in long-term care before transitioning in 2011 to a Nurse Technician position at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital. I started in inpatient pediatric hematology and oncology and later transitioned to outpatient pediatric sedation services.

I graduated from Ferris State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Dental Hygiene, as well as finished an accredited program through the Academy of Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy. I will be practicing as both a Dental Hygienist and Myofunctional Therapist to help our patients and community breathe and function better.

Outside of the office, I am married to my high school sweetheart, Brandon, and we have three children—Cambree, Braxten, and Oakley—and our bernedoodle, Russell. When I’m not chasing after kids, I enjoy reading, watching fantasy films like The Hobbit and Harry Potter, and squeezing in time with my amazing groups of friends.

Melissa

RDH, Dental Hygienist

I joined Bander Dental Group in September 2025, and I am proud to be in my 36th year as a practicing dental hygienist. Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to work alongside some of the most talented, compassionate, and dedicated dentists and dental professionals in our area. These experiences have shaped the way I approach patient care and have reinforced my passion for helping patients achieve and maintain optimal oral and overall health.

I graduated from Grand Rapids Junior College in 1991 and have continued to expand my education throughout my career. In 2020, I became a Certified Health Coach through the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, followed by certification in Peri- and Post-Menopausal Health Coaching in 2024. My additional education has given me a deeper understanding of the connection between oral health and the health of the entire body.

Over the years, I have completed numerous continuing education courses focused on the oral-systemic connection, allowing me to continually expand my knowledge and enhance the quality of care I provide. I believe that learning never stops, and I am committed to staying current with emerging research, techniques, and approaches so I can provide my patients with the highest level of care possible.

For me, dental hygiene is about much more than clean teeth. It is about building relationships, listening to my patients, educating without judgment, and helping each person understand how their oral health can play an important role in their overall well-being.

Outside of the office, I love spending time with my husband, Neil, and my adult children, Alex and Nate. We are happiest outdoors and enjoy traveling, kayaking, bicycling, camping, backpacking, snowmobiling, and spending time at the lake. Being in nature, exploring new places, and spending time with the people I love are some of my favorite ways to recharge.

I feel incredibly grateful to have spent 36 years in a profession I truly love, and I look forward to continuing to learn, grow, and make a difference in the lives of my patients.

Delorian

RDH, Dental Hygienist

I’m excited to be part of the Bander Dental Group team as a Registered Dental Hygienist! I love connecting with people and creating a comfortable, positive experience for every patient. One of my favorite parts of dental hygiene is helping patients better understand their oral health while making sure they feel welcomed, heard, and confident in their care.

Outside of dentistry, I have a creative side and a passion for art and photography—especially portrait photography and capturing the unique personality of the people around me. I also love traveling, going to concerts, spending time at the beach, and discovering new places and great food. Sushi is always at the top of my list!

Family is a huge part of my life. My wife and I are proud parents of six children, and I love spending time together and creating memories as a family. I also enjoy staying active and recently discovered a love for running. I completed my first 5K on Thanksgiving Day in 2025 and look forward to tackling more!

I believe some of the best parts of life come from connecting with people, experiencing new things, and creating meaningful memories. I’m grateful to have a career that allows me to bring that same spirit to my patients every day and help make their dental experience a positive one.

Nicole

RDH, Dental Hygienist

Bio Coming Soon

Abby

RDH, Dental Hygienist

I have been a Registered Dental Hygienist for more than eleven years and earned my Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene from The Ohio State University. I began my career working in both periodontal and pediatric dentistry in Columbus, Ohio, before moving to Colorado, where I spent seven years continuing to expand my skills while working alongside a variety of dental specialists. During that time, I also had the opportunity to serve as a consultant for the Colorado State Dental Board for four years.

I joined Bander Dental Group in August 2025 and am grateful to be part of a team that shares my commitment to providing thoughtful, ethical, and comprehensive care. I appreciate having access to the technology, resources, and knowledge that allow us to look beyond a patient’s teeth and consider the important connection between oral health and overall health. Most of all, I enjoy getting to know my patients and helping them feel comfortable, informed, and confident in their care.

Outside of the office, my partner and I are getting married in 2026! We moved to Michigan in 2025 with our lovable dog, Moose, and have enjoyed exploring everything our new home has to offer—from its beaches and beautiful outdoors to the local culture. Moose is especially happy anytime our adventures involve water or snow!

Amanda

CDA, Clinical Manager – Lead Assistant

I joined the caring Bander Dental Group team in the fall of 2005. I graduated from Olympia Career Institute of Grand Rapids with a degree in Dental Assisting. I am passionate about dentistry and work hard to ensure each patient receives the highest quality care in a comfortable environment. I enjoy working with patients; helping them get the dental care that they need.

I am married to my high school sweetheart, Jason. We have 2 beautiful boys, Charlie and Brady, and a family dog, Opie. In my spare time, I enjoy working outside in the yard and spending the weekends up at our small cottage on Big Star Lake!

Victoria

Dental Assistant

I was beyond blessed to join the Bander Dental Group team in the summer of 2020. I graduated from Grand Rapids Community College in 2014 with an associate’s degree in science. I then decided to further my schooling in the dental field and graduated from Ross Medical in 2015 with a degree in dental assisting.

The best part of dentistry is enhancing the health of patients while creating smiles that boost confidence and self-esteem. I like knowing that patients who have fear of coming to the dentist have the confidence and trust in us to put them at ease.

In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family. I am married to my wonderful husband with two amazing daughters.

Jordann

Dental Assistant

I joined the Bander Dental Group team in the spring of 2020. I’m so thankful to be a part of such a caring dental team. I have been in the dental field since 2018 and I love it. I enjoy getting to know the patients and helping them get the dental care they deserve!

I am married to my husband, Josh. We have one dog, named Willow. In my spare time I enjoy lots of camping trips, being outdoors, and spending time with family and friends.

Amanda

Dental Assistant

I joined the remarkable Bander Dental Group team in winter of 2022, with almost 3 years of experience as a Dental Assistant. I graduated from the Dental Assisting program at ROSS Medical Education Center in March of 2020, and I truly have a passion for what I do in the dental field, I am constantly striving to learn more.

The most rewarding part of dentistry is being able to connect with my patients while simultaneously teaching them the importance of their oral health. I am so blessed to be part of a team who not only makes quality of care their number one priority, but ensures that each patient is comfortable, and feels welcome, wanting to come back again!

Born and raised in Grand Rapids, I moved to Florida in 2014, and returned in 2017 after graduating high school. Both of my parents are Dominican immigrants and as a Dominican-American, I am proud to be fluent in both Spanish and English. I am married to my amazing husband, Maceo. In our free time, we enjoy spending time with our dog Logan, visiting the animals at the Zoo, and we’re HUGE foodies!

Emilee

Dental Assistant

I have been a dental assistant for 6+ years, and I am so incredibly thankful to be a part of the Bander Dental Group team! After receiving my Bachelor’s of Science in 2018 from Ferris State University (GO DAWGS), I fell in love with dentistry.

Being in the dental field, I get the opportunity to help create beautiful smiles and understand
the importance of oral health. I truly have a passion for helping others and am always striving to learn more as there are advancements in dentistry.

Born and raised in West Michigan, I enjoy spending time with my amazing friends and family. I am a huge workout fanatic and love being with my doggies! On the weekends, you can catch me drinking espresso martinis and watching football!

Marissa

Dental Assistant

I received my degree in Applied Science in 2014, and after a lot of life changes, found my way into the dental field. I have been assisting for about 4 years and I love it!

I enjoy being able to help educate, support, and get to know all of our patients. At Bander Dental Group, I strive to treat each patient with compassion, respect, and empathy to help them get the care they need and deserve.

At home, I have a wonderful husband and 2 beautiful sons. In our free time we go to the movie theater, visit with family, go to the beach, spend time fishing, and get outdoors as much as we can. My favorite hobbies include walking/cuddling my dogs, reading, hammock naps, football, and hanging out with friends! Go Blue!

Amber

Registered Dental Assistant

I have been a Registered Dental Assistant for 23 years and truly love what I do! One of my favorite parts of dentistry is building relationships with my patients and helping educate and inspire them to achieve their best dental and overall oral health.

Outside of the office, I’m a proud mom to two daughters and two very loved Aussiedoodles who keep life fun and busy! I enjoy spending as much time outdoors as possible—camping, hiking, kayaking, and working in my garden are some of my favorite ways to unwind.

I’m passionate about dentistry, but even more so about making a positive difference in the lives of the patients I have the privilege to care for.

Damika

Registered Dental Assistant

I joined Bander Dental Group in the spring of 2026 and have been working in dentistry since 2012. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work in several different areas of dentistry, which has given me a well-rounded understanding of patient care and the dental field.

In 2020, I returned to Grand Rapids Community College, where I earned my Associate of Applied Science degree and became a Registered Dental Assistant. What I enjoy most about dentistry is connecting with patients, helping them feel comfortable, and making their experience at the dental office a positive one.

Outside of work, I enjoy gravel cycling, spending time outdoors, and being with my daughter, fiancé, and our blended family. I also enjoy spending time with our golden retriever, Bodhi.

Nikki

Dental Assistant

I joined Bander Dental Group in the summer of 2025, and I have loved every moment of it! From becoming friends with my amazing coworkers to forming relationships with our patients, I truly enjoy being part of the team.

I have been working in dentistry for six years, starting at the front desk and finding my way to the clinic, where I truly feel I am meant to be! I love being able to explain patients’ care to them while keeping them at ease throughout the process.

When I am not working, you can find me spending time with friends and family, watching movies, or painting!

Emelina

Dental Assistant

I began my dental career in 2021, working in patient scheduling before quickly realizing I wanted to be more directly involved in patient care. About a year later, I made the move to the clinical side of dentistry and haven’t looked back!

After moving from Orlando, Florida, to Grand Rapids with my husband, Aaron, in early 2026, I was fortunate to find Bander Dental Group. Being part of BDG has given me an entirely new appreciation for dentistry and the important connection between oral health and overall health. I love learning from our doctors and team and continuing to grow my knowledge and skills. I’m even considering returning to school to pursue a longtime goal of becoming a dental hygienist.

Outside of the office, you’ll usually find me spending time with Aaron and our fur baby, Bella. We love being outdoors—paddleboarding, hiking, and most recently, camping. When we’re not exploring outside, we enjoy serving at our local church. I’ve also recently taken up playing the piano and am quickly falling in love with it!

Christina

Sterilization Tech

I joined Bander Dental Group in July 2026. I am grateful to work for a practice that values the office team and patients alike! The commitment to excellence is obvious, and I’m happy to use my expertise to contribute to the overall well-being of our patients.

I’ve had a very rewarding career life. After high school I traveled the world for 8 years as a Flight Attendant, then went back to school, graduated with an Associate Degree and worked in Public Affairs for Comerica Inc. After that, I bought a small local newspaper and served as editor for 28 years. After selling the paper in 2025 and not being ready to retire, I took a course at Dorsey Business College to become a Certified Sterilization Technician.

Personally, I am the proud mother of two beautiful daughters with one ER nurse and my youngest, a recent graduate of Grand Valley University working in the IT industry.

Being new to Grand Rapids, I have been exploring all the beach towns along Lake Michigan and loving it! I have also been attending Ada Bible Church and am looking forward to making new friends and exploring everything Grand Rapids has to offer!