Hannah Doan, DDS
I grew up on my mom’s dental chair playing with denture teeth and wax. Dentistry came to my life in the most natural way possible as my mom was a dentist in our home country – Vietnam. I was very fortunate to work part-time in the evening as her assistant during my 4 years in dental school in Vietnam. My family moved to the U.S before I graduated with a degree in 2011. On the day I walked the stage to receive the diploma, I promised myself that I would graduate from a U.S dental school so my family could be there. My dream came true in December 2018 when I graduated (again) from the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine.
My mom definitely has a big influence in the way I am practicing dentistry. I learned from her how to listen to patients’ concerns and tailor the treatment plan to match their own priorities. Every person has a different lifestyle, different core values, and different priority so there should not be a cookie-cutter treatment plan for everyone.
When I am not doing dentistry, I spend time with my family, especially my fur baby – Cookie. I also have a blog at DDSJourney.com to share free information with other international dentists who wish to achieve the U.S license. I was very fortunate to receive so much help and support from friends and family so the blog is my way of “Paying it forward.” My other hobbies include DIY, walking along a beach, and reading books.
Josephine Lee, DDS
As a Federal Way dentist, Dr. Josephine Lee enjoys caring for the families in her area and has been in private practice as a family, restorative, and cosmetic dentist since 1997. She continues to educate herself and hone her skills by regularly attending lectures and seminars.
Dr. Lee is known for her gentle and kind manner. Her deep feelings of commitment and compassion for her patients are evident in the way she treats them like members of her own family.
She tries to model herself on her heroes: Mother Theresa and her mother. Mother Theresa because of her sacrificial service to others and her mom for her sacrificial love for her family.
"For me, the most rewarding aspect of dentistry is helping my patients achieve their smile goals and building up their self-esteem."
Our Team
Diana
Hygienist
Hola! I’m originally from Lima-Peru. I grew up in a town called Vitarte, about 45 minutes outside the city. I was raised along with my older sister and two younger brothers by my loving parents. I did all my studies in Peru so I am fluent in Spanish. When I was young I remember I never wanted to be in any field related to healthcare however, everything changed when I moved to the USA.
In 2005 I was working as a nanny for a dentist in Bellevue. He offered me a job in his office, trained me as his dental assistant and that’s when I fell in love with the dental career. I worked as a dental assistant for 9 years and later on I took the decision to become a dental hygienist. I graduated from Seattle Central College with a Bachelors's degree in June 2018 and I was hired 3 months later here at Avalon. I feel very blessed to be a part of an amazing dental office with a dedicated team and wonderful patients. I strive to provide the best care and dental experience to each of our patients. Outside of work, I love spending time with my beautiful baby girl Lucia, my husband Mike, and my 4-legged son Gringo. We enjoy going for walks, bike riding and eating delicious Peruvian food.
Marie
Hygienist
I found my fondness for dentistry when I volunteered in a local office while in college which led me to Dental Assisting School. I assisted for 9 months before I was accepted into Pierce College’s Dental Hygiene School where I graduated in 1999, and since then have been part of two incredible dental practices in those 22 plus years, while over 12 of those have been right here at Avalon Family Dentistry. Therefore, I have had the privilege of having long-standing relationships with our wonderful patients that I have come to care so much about. The best part of being a dental hygienist for me is seeing the transformation in patients' self-care in achieving the best oral health possible for themselves. I strive to provide a warm gentle experience while paying attention to detail.
Besides my amazing dental family, I am blessed with two children, Mikey and Marina, and two loves of my life, my husband who is my high school sweetheart, both of us graduating from the iconic Stadium High School in Tacoma, and our furry golden doodle companion Ginger. Outside of work, I find my greatest peace spending time with my family, being physically active, playing in the Pacific Northwest outdoors, serving others, and through my faith.
Tanya
Office Manager
I grew up in Federal Way, going to high school at Thomas Jefferson, and then dental assisting school in Tacoma. I’ve been lucky enough to spend my 8 years in dentistry at Avalon Family Dentistry. I love the relationship I’ve built with patients and the different responsibilities I’ve got throughout the day.
My husband and I have been married for just over 2 years and we have two “kids”. We have a three-legged cat named Sir Reginald Tripaw, or Reggie for short, and a husky/lab dog named Lucy. We love spending time with our families and doing anything animal-related. If it involves animals, chances are we’ve done it. We even spent part of our honeymoon at a bed and breakfast at a zoo.
Cathy
Dental Assistant
I was raised in Federal Way. I have two grown sons that kept me very busy with all their activities. I have been a Dental Assistant for over 24 years. By far, the best part of my job is the patients. I love the friendships that have developed over the years. I enjoy being able to perform a variety of procedures all while making my patients’ visits pleasant and enjoyable. In my spare time, my husband and I enjoy boating, fishing, camping, and golfing.
Nicole
Dental Assistant
I grew up in Maple Valley and have been an assistant since 2012. My husband and I have been married for 7 years. We have two rescue Pitbulls, Capone, and Nellie - they’re our babies. In our spare time, we enjoy camping and the outdoors. I also enjoy crafting, gardening, and DIY projects.
Amber
Dental Assistant
Hi, I’m Amber! ¡Hola, me llamo Amber! Born in California and raised in Tacoma, WA, I am thrilled to begin my journey as a dental assistant here at Avalon. This is not just a job for me; it’s the start of my career and a new chapter in my life. Inspired by Dr. Hannah and Dr. Lee, I am committed to advancing in the field of dentistry. I’m very excited to meet you and your family and help you achieve your dream smile!