Meet Our Sun City Team in Sun City, Arizona
The team at our Sun City dental office is the best of the best – a team of dedicated professionals who maintain a compassionate and knowledgeable demeanor to put you at ease. At our Sun City dental office, we maintain our education and use only the latest technology to provide advanced dentistry, including teeth cleanings, dental implants, porcelain veneers, and the best results. Get to know your team and read their bios below!
Doctors
Michael Dodd, DDS
Education
B.S. University of Colorado, School of Dentistry
Pomona College
Achievements | Awards
Additional professional training at Spears Education and Kois Training
Marius Puha, DMD
Education
B.S., Liberal Arts & Sciences, Biology Major, Chemistry Minor, University of Illinois at Chicago
DMD, Western University of Health Sciences
M.A., Biomedical Science, Midwestern University
Achievements | Awards
M.Ed, Instructional Leadership, University of Illinois at Chicago
Stephanie Collins, DDS
Education:
Indiana University School of Dentistry
Albert Schweitzer Fellowship in Public Health
Lutheran Medical Advanced Education in General Dentistry Fellowship
American Academy Implant Dentistry (AAID) Loma Linda University Implant MaxiCourse Fellowship
Academy General Practice Orthodontics Fellowship
Dental Hygienists
Christine – Hygienist
Meet Christine:
Originally from Southern California, Christine is married with two children—a beautiful daughter and an amazing son. She also has two dogs. An ocean lover, Christine misses the beach dearly now that she’s in Arizona, but she enjoys making a difference in her patients’ oral health.
Dental & Professional Expertise:
Christine holds an Associate’s Degree in Applied Science from Carrington College. She is anesthesia certified and laser certified, specializing in comprehensive dental hygiene and periodontal care. She loves seeing her patients’ reactions after a thorough debridement and helping them achieve healthier, cleaner teeth.
Fun Fact:
Christine’s favorite procedures are debridements because she finds joy in helping patients see and feel the difference in their oral health. She would love to travel to Fiji and Australia someday to explore their beautiful beaches and cultures.
Education & Certifications:
Associate’s Degree in Applied Science, Carrington College | Anesthesia Certified | Laser Certified
Briana – Hygienist
Meet Briana:
A proud native of Arizona, Briana loves spending her free time outdoors. She enjoys hiking in Sedona, going to the gym, and taking trips to Disneyland with her three kids. Her active lifestyle and love for personal growth keep her energized and motivated.
Dental & Professional Expertise:
Briana holds an Associate of Science Degree in Dental Hygiene from Carrington College. She is laser certified through the Academy of Laser Dentistry and is anesthesia certified. She specializes in dental cleanings and periodontal therapy, and she loves seeing instant results after debridements and hearing patients’ reactions.
Fun Fact:
Briana has a passion for personal development and is a freakishly fast runner, often challenging herself with new fitness goals.
Education & Certifications:
Associate of Science Degree in Dental Hygiene, Carrington College | Laser Certification, Academy of Laser Dentistry | Anesthesia Certified
If she could travel anywhere: A Disney Cruise to Alaska
Mikaela – Hygienist
Meet Mikaela:
Originally from the Dakotas, Mikaela loves staying active outdoors and spending quality time with her boys. When she’s not at work, she enjoys snuggling up on the couch with a good book and staying fit through exercise.
Dental & Professional Expertise:
Mikaela holds an Associate of Science Degree in Dental Hygiene from Carrington College. She is laser certified through the Academy of Laser Dentistry and is anesthesia certified. She loves performing debridements, finding the process incredibly satisfying and rewarding her patients with healthier gums and cleaner teeth.
Fun Fact:
Mikaela is a black belt in Tae Kwon Do, showcasing her discipline and dedication both inside and outside of her career.
Education & Certifications:
Associate of Science Degree in Dental Hygiene, Carrington College | Laser Certification, Academy of Laser Dentistry | Anesthesia Certified
If she could travel anywhere: Switzerland
Assistants
Sylwia – Dental Assistant
Meet Sylwia:
Born in Poland, Sylwia moved to the United States at age 2. She grew up in Illinois and recently relocated to Arizona two years ago. Sylwia loves spending her free time outdoors—hiking, camping, traveling, and offroading. She also enjoys cooking and baking. Her fur baby, a husky named Nala, is a big part of her life.
Dental & Professional Expertise:
Sylwia holds a Dental Assistant Certification, Phlebotomy Certification, and Radiation Certification. She is passionate about supporting our team and providing excellent patient care.
Fun Fact:
Sylwia is fluent in Polish and rides motorcycles, enjoying the thrill of adventure and exploration.
If she could travel anywhere: Europe
Jessica L – Dental Assistant
Meet Jessica:
Born and raised in Arizona, Jessica enjoys staying active with running, baking, and decorating. She’s also a passionate animal lover and has two dogs. Despite her Arizona roots, she’s never been to the Grand Canyon—yet!
Dental & Professional Expertise:
Jessica specializes in supporting full smile makeovers and dental implant surgeries, finding great fulfillment in helping transform her patients’ lives. She has been with Burns Dentistry since 2019.
Fun Fact:
Jessica loves baking and often makes treats for her family and the Burns team, sharing her passion for sweets and creating special moments.
Education & Certifications:
Phlebotomy Certification | Radiation Health & Safety Certification | Dental Assisting Certification | CPR Certification
If she could travel anywhere: Thailand, Paris, or Greece
Rayna – Dental Assistant
Meet Rayna:
Originally from Spokane, Washington, Rayna moved to Arizona in 2023. Before becoming a dental assistant, she worked at a thrift store and Papa Murphy’s pizza. She loves attending concerts, enjoying outdoor activities, and exploring arts and crafts. Rayna also enjoys hanging out with friends, traveling, thrift shopping, and sharing laughs.
Dental & Professional Expertise:
She is passionate about supporting full-mouth restorations—seeing the positive impact on patients’ quality of life and confidence is what motivates her most.
Fun Fact:
Sometimes she snorts when she laughs, loves scary movies, and is allergic to gelatin—yes, gummy bears included!
Education & Certifications:
Certificate in Dental Assisting, Spokane Community College | X-ray Certification | CPR Certification | Sterilization training and experience
If she could travel anywhere: Saturn—she dreams of exploring beyond Earth’s boundaries someday.
Samantha – Dental Assistant
Meet Sam:
Originally from Blyth, California, Sam enjoys spending her free time shopping, hanging out with friends, and attending sporting events. She loves staying active and engaging in her community.
Dental & Professional Expertise:
She particularly enjoys supporting hybrid surgeries, seeing patients regain confidence through advanced technology like scanners, CT scans, same day crowns, and 3D printers. She takes pride in providing state-of-the-art care to every patient.
Fun Fact:
During her senior year of high school, Sam played volleyball and was proud to be #1 in San Diego for most digs and #20 in California.
Certifications & Achievements:
PRP Certified | X-Ray Certified
If she could travel anywhere: Greece
Grecia – Dental Assistant
Meet Grecia:
Born and raised in Arizona, Grecia loves spending time with her family and friends. She appreciates the importance of good dental health and looks forward to growing her skills in the dental field.
Dental & Professional Expertise:
Her favorite procedures are full-mouth cleanings. She loves seeing patients leave with a confident smile and better oral health, and she enjoys helping them feel comfortable and confident to achieve their desired results.
Fun Fact:
Grecia enjoys making coffee on weekends—her way of starting her day on a positive note.
If she could travel anywhere: Switzerland
Paige – Hygiene Assistant / Sterile Tech
Meet Paige:
Born and raised in Arizona, Paige enjoys working with people and brightening their day. She also loves swimming and exploring new places in her free time. Paige has a strong background in dental assisting, having started her career after completing her high school education and West-MEC classes. She has been working in the dental field since then and is dedicated to supporting our team and patients.
Dental & Professional Expertise:
She loves periodontal care because of the satisfying feeling when calculus is removed and patients experience relief and comfort. Seeing patients leave with healthier gums and renewed confidence brings her joy.
Fun Fact:
Paige’s fun fact is that she loves cooking and has a talent for playing piano and doing acrylic paintings. She enjoys exploring different cultures through food and travel.
Education & Certifications:
X-ray Certification | Coronal Polishing Certification
If she could travel anywhere: Italy or Japan
Support Team
Susan – Concierge
Meet Susan:
Originally from Sacramento, California, Susan grew up as an Air Force brat, traveling extensively, and even living in England during her childhood. When she’s not working, she loves baking and decorating cakes—especially for her kids and grandkids.
Dental & Professional Expertise:
She enjoys supporting patients through their dental journeys, with her favorite procedure being hybrids, as she loves seeing the transformation from start to finish and how it improves patients’ quality of life.
Fun Fact:
Susan loves to rollerblade and recently taught herself how to crochet, exploring new hobbies and crafts.
Education & Certifications:
CPR Certified | Digital Form Expert
If she could travel anywhere: Italy
Suzette – Doctor Administrator
Meet Suzette:
Originally from California, Suzette moved to Arizona in June 2022. She has been happily married for over 10 years and has two beautiful daughters and two amazing sons. When she’s not at work, she loves spending time with her family and planning special events.
Dental & Professional Expertise:
Suzette holds a Dental Assistant Certification. She is passionate about helping patients overcome their fears of the dental office. She loves guiding patients from initial phone calls—often filled with apprehension—to their first visit, where they experience the “Wow” moment. Seeing patients enjoy their visits and look forward to returning makes her truly fulfilled.
Fun Fact:
Suzette is the family event planner, coordinating holidays, birthdays, and special occasions with enthusiasm and attention to detail.
Education & Certifications:
Dental Assistant Certification
If she could travel anywhere: Hawaii and Spain
Amber – Hygiene Administrator
Meet Amber:
Amber is based in Sun City. She has been with Burns Dentistry since 2018 and has taken a step away from clinical work to focus on patient education. She absolutely loves connecting with patients and supporting their journey to better oral health.
Dental & Professional Expertise:
Amber has started her career at Burns Dentistry and is passionate about educating patients on maintaining healthy gums and teeth. She loves helping patients progress from active infection to a more sustainable, maintenance-friendly state.
Fun Fact:
Amper loves cooking and making videos. She’s a licensed esthetician and appreciates helping people feel beautiful both inside and out.
Education & Certifications:
CPR Certified | Licensed Aesthetician
If she could travel anywhere: Somewhere green, like a beach in paradise, enjoying good company and great food!
Lydia – Treatment Coordinator
Meet Lydia:
Based in Sun City, Lydia has been in the dental field for almost 10 years. She has been with Burns Dentistry since 2024. She is passionate about guiding patients through their treatment journeys and providing personalized care to help them achieve their best smile.
Dental & Professional Expertise:
Lydia has completed full arch bootcamps and continues her education to stay current with the latest techniques. She specializes in treatment coordination, ensuring patients feel confident, informed, and comfortable throughout their dental experience.
Favorite Procedure:
Her favorite procedure is Hybridge Implant Supported Teeth because it is life-changing. Lydia loves helping patients enhance their smiles and boost their confidence—seeing the positive impact on their lives is very rewarding.
Fun Fact:
Lydia enjoyed doing Fostercare for over ten years, caring for more than ten siblings. She treasures the experience and the impact it has made on her life.
If she could travel anywhere: Anywhere in Europe!
