Meet the Team Portland, OR

Melissa

Office Manager

Melissa joined Gifford Family Dentistry in 2014 and brings more than 20 years of experience in dentistry, including both clinical assisting and a variety of front office roles. She thrives in a small practice setting where she can build meaningful relationships and provide a more personalized experience for every patient. Melissa is passionate about guiding and advocating for patients, helping them make informed decisions about their dental care while minimizing out-of-pocket costs whenever possible. Outside of the office, she enjoys playing cards with friends and family, cheering on the Oregon Ducks, and spending time vacationing in sunny Arizona.

Nicole

EFDA Lead Dental Assistant

Nicole brings more than 20 years of experience in the dental field, with a diverse background spanning multiple areas of practice. She managed a dental sedation course for the Oregon Academy of General Dentistry for over a decade and has extensive experience supporting patients who experience anxiety or fear related to dental care. Nicole has also worked with special needs children for many years and is especially skilled at helping everyone feel comfortable and welcome. Outside of work, Nicole enjoys spending time outdoors, including hiking, kayaking, snowshoeing, and camping. She also treasures quality time with her family, especially her grandson.

Siarra

EFDA Dental Assistant

Siarra has over five years of experience in dentistry as an EFDA and was drawn to the field by her passion for helping others feel confident in their smile. Though born and raised in Central California, she lived in Tampa, Florida for the past eight years before moving to Portland in January 2025. Siarra is currently pursuing a career in dental hygiene as she continues to grow professionally within the dental field. In her free time, Siarra loves watching K-dramas, studying the Bible, and being outdoors in the sun. Above all, faith plays an important role in her life. She enjoys going to her church daily and sharing the gospel wherever she goes.

Caroleen

Certified Dental Assistant

Caroleen comes to us from Southern California and moved to Portland in 2022. She has been in the dental field for 5 years and has been a team member at our office for four years. Caroleen has always had a passion for teeth and this led her to pursue a career in dentistry. She loves playing a part in helping her patients feel more comfortable in our chair and less hesitant to come for their visits. In her free time, she likes to explore all that Portland has to offer along with her family. Caroleen also enjoys trying new restaurants and going to the zoo with her daughter and friends!

Amanda

Registered Dental Hygienist

Amanda has been a dental hygienist with our practice for over 13 years, and caring for patients in her own neighborhood is one of the things she loves most about her job. A longtime member of the community, Amanda takes pride in building lasting relationships and helping patients feel genuinely comfortable in the dental chair. When she’s not at the office, Amanda is usually adventuring with her husband and their two dogs, planning the next getaway in their camping trailer, or dreaming up her next travel destination. She’s also a devoted Chicago Cubs fan and never misses a chance to catch a game at Wrigley Field.

Amanda has wanted to be a dental hygienist since 8th grade, and she brings that lifelong passion into every appointment. She especially enjoys working with dental-phobic patients, helping them overcome anxiety and build confidence through a calm, compassionate, and even fun experience. Her goal is always to provide top-tier care while making every visit as comfortable and positive as possible.

Iris

Registered Dental Hygienist

Iris has been part of the dental field since 2012, starting her career as a dental assistant before advancing into dental hygiene. Her genuine passion for helping patients achieve their oral health goals continues to inspire her work each day. Raised between Colorado and Montana, Iris has a deep love for the outdoors and can be often found backpacking, climbing, or boating. When she’s not outside, she enjoys quieter moments indoors, usually with a good book or a challenging puzzle.

Emmy

Treatment Care Coordinator

Emmy is our Treatment Care Coordinator with five years of experience supporting patients through their dental care journey. Emmy has been an important member of our team since 2023, and her warm, welcoming, and positive attitude fits in perfectly with our practice. She plays a crucial role in ensuring our patients receive the care they need, explaining treatment options, and helping make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Outside of the office, Emmy enjoys hiking, reading, and spending quality time with her husband and their beloved border collie, Birdie. She embraces life joyfully, both professionally and personally!

Taylor

Patient Care Coordinator

Taylor is a Front Desk Treatment Coordinator with five years of experience in the dental field. She began her dental career in 2022 as a Sterile Tech and quickly discovered her passion for working directly with patients in the front office. After spending a year in oral surgery, she realized that building lasting relationships with patients in general dentistry was where her heart truly belonged.

In 2024, Taylor joined Dr. Schwab’s practice, where she has since found her dental home. She is dedicated to ensuring patients feel comfortable, informed, and cared for from the moment they walk through the door. Outside of work, Taylor enjoys spending time with her toddler, cooking delicious meals, watching movies, doing puzzles, exploring new restaurants, and going on fun summer adventures with her family.