Meet the Dental Team at Newark Dental Associates
Meet Our Staff
OFFICE
Donna Wheeler-Hunt, CDA, EFDA, OM
Office Manager
Hello! My name is Donna WheelerHunt. I am raising our last teenager of the bunch. His current schedule is my current hobby and oh so enjoying these moments. This has been my 34th year in dentistry. I will say 2020 has been the year with the most changes. My experience as a certified dental assistant led me to OSU expanded function (tooth filler) school in 2003. Along the way, I gained administrative experience that has led me to my best and current position as the office manager. This has truly given me daily does of organizing critical thinking educating and most importantly gaining new relationships with patients, staff, and business leaders in our community. This combo of my family (16 in all) and Newark Dental leaves me living my best life. I am here to ensure your dental appointment is safe comfortable and stress-free.
Trista Dembski
Administration
I’m Trista, I’ve been with the Newark Dental Family since May 2019. This is my 8th year of being in the amazing dental field. I started out as an assistant and have transitioned over the years into Insurance and Administration. When I’m not at work I am spending all my time with my huge family. I am married and have 4 fur babies : 3 cats and 1 dog. My husband and I are always trying to travel anywhere we can and hike any mountain we can find. 2020 has been a crazy year but it has given us our first little baby. In July we welcomed a precious little girl named Gwendolyne into our life.
Tara Rhoads
CDA, EFDA
Hello! I am Tara. I am an EFDA, Nation Certified Dental Assistant, and National Certified Phlebotomist. I also teach an EFDA class at a local college. I have been in dentistry for 20 years and am passionate about caring for your dental needs.
I was raised on a farm in Licking County, where I still reside with my son, significant other, and two rescue dogs. My hobbies include riding quads, hiking, spending time with my family, and working on the farm.
Ashton Cole
CODA, EDFA
I'm Ashton, I joined the Newark Dental team in May of 2018. I've been a Dental Assistant since 2012, and an Expanded Functions Dental Assistant since 2016. I married my high school sweetheart, Trevor, in 2016, and we have two dogs. When I'm not seeing patients I love spending time with my Husband and family.
Lauren Pennington
Dental Assistant/Front Desk Check-in
Hi, my name is Lauren! I graduated from C-TEC’s dental assisting program in 2020. Shortly after, I found Newark Dental in June of '21. I originally got into dentistry because of my experience with having braces, it made me want to help others love their smile too! I enjoy going to work every day and I am constantly learning and growing. Some things about me are my husband and I have an 8-month-old baby girl, her name is Charlie + I love to bake! I am grateful to have found such an amazing dental office with the most amazing coworkers!
HYGENISTS
Pat Helser
Dental Hygienist
Hi, I’m Pat Helser a Dental Hygienist with Newark Dental Associates. When not in the office with my “work family” I love camping with my family and friends enjoying nature and new adventures. It’s a beautiful world we live in !!! Take time to soak it all in!!
Michelle Cunningham
Dental Hygienist
I am a graduate of the Ohio State University and have been a dental hygienist for 23 years. I am passionate about meeting people where they’re at in their oral health journey. I am gentle, compassionate, and non-judgmental, and truly want people to look forward to seeing me! My husband and I have been married for 18 years, and have four children, and two fur babies. My faith and family are my everything!
Kaitlyn Howell
Dental Hygienist
Outside of work, I have a lot of fun with friends and family doing some of my favorite things like traveling, concerts, shopping, and of course, rooting for the Ohio State Buckeyes. But my most precious and priceless time is spent with my daughter and how we show each other how awesome this life is.
ASSISTANTS
Lauren Pennington
Dental Assistant
Hello! My name is Lauren. I graduated from C-Tecs dental assisting program in 2020. I have been part of this amazing team since 2021. I love my job and I am constantly learning & growing. Outside of work, I am staying busy with my 2 little girls, Charlie and Emerson.
Please call our practice to schedule your consultation:(740) 273-6761.
Bringing contemporary, comprehensive, and compassionate care to the Newark OH Area: Newark OH, Heath OH, Granville OH, Pataskala OH, Mt. Vernon OH, Zanesville OH, Columbus OH, and all cities in Franklin, Fairfield, Licking, Knox, and Muskingum counties.