Kasia Dionne, DMD, Owner / General Dentist
Dr. Kasia Dionne, a native of Poland, embarked on her dental journey in 2002 as an assistant at Sprucewood Dental. Her love for the profession grew, leading her to pursue higher education. In 2009, she graduated from the University of Vermont with a Bachelor of Arts in biology and a minor in chemistry. Dr. Dionne continued her studies at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and graduated in 2013.
Since graduation, Dr. Dionne has dedicated herself to providing general dentistry services to patients of all ages and dental needs. Her passion for public health led her to participate in providing dental care to underserved children and adolescents in rural areas of Vermont. Dr. Dionne’s commitment to her profession is evident through her involvement in professional organizations. She is an active member of the American Dental Association, Vermont State Dental Society, Academy of General Dentistry and American Academy of Facial Esthetics. Additionally, she served on the Vermont State Dental Society Board of Directors from 2017 to 2024.
Dr. Dionne’s academic achievements extend beyond her dental degree. She is a faculty member of the dental residency program at the University of Vermont Medical Center, contributing to the education of future dentists. Dr. Dionne’s personal life is enriched by her loving family. She and her husband, Ed, reside in Williston, Vermont, and together they raise their three daughters, Emma, Chloe, and Lilly, while also caring for their beloved dogs, Bean and Rocky.
In her free time, Dr. Dionne pursues her passions, including traveling, gardening, swimming, reading, and spending time outdoors. One of her unique interests is learning new languages, demonstrating her intellectual curiosity. Dr. Dionne’s dedication to her profession, her involvement in professional organizations, and her commitment to her family and personal pursuits make her an exemplary dental professional and a valued member of the Vermont community.
Crista Fantone, DMD, General Dentist
Dr. Crista Fantone, a graduate of SUNY Geneseo and Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, has dedicated herself to delivering dental care to all Vermonters. Especially those with limited access to dental services. Since completing her general practice residency program at The University of Vermont Medical Center in 2018, Dr. Fantone has been actively pursuing her passion for improving dental health in the state of Vermont.
Dr. Fantone provides services aboard a mobile dental van, treating children in need. Additionally, she is credentialed at Central Vermont Medical Center to treat patients with special needs under sedation. Dr. Fantone’s commitment to the community extends beyond her clinical work, as she serves as a mentor and faculty member with the dental residency program at UVMMC. She is actively involved in professional organizations such as the American Dental Association, Vermont Dental Society and American Academy of Facial Esthetics contributing to the advancement of dentistry.
A native of Rochester, New York, Dr. Fantone relocated to South Burlington in 2017. Sharing her life with her beloved cats, Benjen and Evie, she enjoys live music, cooking, traveling, reading, hiking, and exploring the natural beauty of Vermont. Dr. Fantone’s passion for her profession and her dedication to providing high-quality dental care reflect her commitment to improving the overall health and well-being of her patients and the community she serves.
Makesha Heath, TDA, Office Manager / Traditional Dental Assistant
In 1999, Makesha completed her education at The Essex Technical Center as a Dental Assistant, where she was recognized with the prestigious “Outstanding Dental Assistant” award that same year. She has been a valued member of the Sprucewood Dental Team for over a decade.
Makesha often greets patients with a warm smile, making her the first welcoming face they encounter in the office. She skillfully wears multiple hats and approaches each task with enthusiasm and dedication. Her compassionate, thorough, and dedicated nature is evident in her work. Additionally, she serves as the office’s insurance and billing specialist.
Outside of work, Makesha resides in Essex Junction with her partner, Nate, and their two lovely daughters, Monica and Daphne. In her free time, she enjoys immersing herself in the outdoors, tending to her vegetable garden, picking berries, camping, taking leisurely walks, cycling, and spending cherished moments with her family.
Linda Retchin, RDH / Registered Dental Hygienist
With over three decades of experience, Linda is a skilled Registered Dental Hygienist. Her journey began at Howard University’s College of Dentistry in Washington, D.C., where she has continually expanded her knowledge of top-notch dental care and practices. Linda’s passion for oral health is evident in her work. Not only is she an expert in the dental office environment, but she is also an active member of the dental community, earning her respect in the field.
For more than a decade, Linda has worked as a per diem Dental Hygienist in northern Vermont. Her dedication to oral health shines through her work, where she has continuously demonstrated her expertise and adaptability.
Beyond her clinical work, Linda’s extensive experience and dedication to her profession make her an admirable figure in the field of Dental Hygiene. In 2015, the VDHA recognized her accomplishments with the Outstanding Dental Hygienist Award. Linda continues to actively contribute to the local Dental community, serving as the ADEX District 10 Representative and as a National Dental Examiner with CDCA-WREB-CITA.
Outside of her profession, Linda is an active member of her Vermont community and enjoys participating in International Dragon Boat competitions, baking, golfing, playing Mah Jongg, traveling the world with friends, and spending time with her husband of 35 years, Jeff, and their five-year-old Australian Labradoodle, Copper.
Ariel Duquette, RDH / Registered Dental Hygienist
Ariel, a graduate of Vermont Technical College since 2009, holds over 15 years of noteworthy dental experience. As Director of Dental Services at a larger practice, she gained comprehensive knowledge in clinical, front desk, billing, and management aspects of dentistry.
Her passion for dentistry preceded her dental hygiene studies. Before her educational journey, Ariel worked as a dental assistant in an Endodontic office. She has a diverse patient base and holds experience working in a mobile dental clinic that served children in rural Vermont. Her unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality dental care is complemented by her dedication to building strong patient relationships.
Ariel’s compassionate and positive demeanor, along with her easy-going personality, make her a highly valued member of the team. Based in Barre, Vermont, Ariel leads a vibrant family life with her husband Lance and their two active boys, Max and Abe. Their boys’ participation in travel hockey and lacrosse keeps the family on its toes.
When she’s not traveling to Boston for hockey games, Ariel seeks solace by the ocean, collecting shells, with Marco Island, FL being her preferred destination.
We are thrilled to have Ariel join our expert Team at Sprucewood Dental. With her impressive background and her unwavering dedication to patient care, Ariel is poised to make a significant impact on our practice.
Lea Keyes, RDH / Registered Dental Hygienist
Lea, a Vermont Technical College graduate from the class of 2023, is a skilled and passionate dental hygienist. Her meticulous attention to detail and gentle touch ensure that her patients’ visits are comfortable and thorough. Lea is certified to administer local dental anesthesia, helping patients receive the necessary pain management during their procedures.
Prior to her career in dental hygiene, Lea worked as a hairstylist, where she developed a passion for helping people feel good about themselves. This passion continues to drive her in her role as a dental hygienist, as she strives to provide her patients with a positive and comfortable experience.
Lea resides in Colchester with her partner, Zac, and their two beloved dogs, Niko and Roo, as well as their spirited cat, Kaine. In her personal time, she enjoys relaxing in her hammock with a good book, tending to her garden, and cherishing moments with her loved ones.
Michaela Clark, RDH / Registered Dental Hygienist
Michaela, a certified dental hygienist, graduated from Vermont Technical College in 2020. With expertise in local anesthetic and laser treatment, she provides exceptional care at Sprucewood Dental. Michaela’s thorough and gentle approach ensures top-quality preventive care, helping patients achieve optimal oral health. She is dedicated to educating patients on maintaining healthy smiles and creating comfortable, positive experiences.
Outside of her professional life, Michaela finds tranquility and joy on her small farm. She prioritizes spending time with loved ones, finding balance and happiness in these relationships. Whether interacting with patients or enjoying personal time, Michaela brings a warm and positive attitude to all endeavors. As she says, “Let’s work together to maintain your radiant and healthy smile!”
Holly Anderson, RDH / Registered Dental Hygienist
Holly, a seasoned dental hygienist with over two decades of experience is dedicated to providing patients with exceptional oral healthcare. She believes that every patient deserves a positive and compassionate dental visit.
Holly’s journey in dentistry began after graduating from the University of Vermont. She honed her skills working alongside a renowned prosthodontist in New York City for over a decade. This experience greatly contributed to her expertise as a skilled hygienist.
In pursuit of a better work-life balance, Holly returned to her home state of Vermont to be closer to her family. She currently resides in Hinesburg with her husband, Rick, and their beloved cat, Marvin.
Outside of her professional life, Holly cherishes spending quality time with her family. She also enjoys the simple pleasures of gardening, kayaking, fishing, hiking, cooking, and traveling.
Holly’s passion for dentistry and her commitment to patient care make her an invaluable asset to our team. She is dedicated to helping patients achieve and maintain optimal oral health, while ensuring their comfort and satisfaction throughout their dental visits.
Rebecca Johnson, RDH / Registered Dental Hygienist
Melissa Cadorette, RDH – BSDH / Registered Dental Hygienist
Melissa, a seasoned dental hygienist with over 18 years of experience, was born and raised in Berlin, Vermont. She obtained her dental hygiene diploma from the University of Vermont in 2004, being part of the final graduating class of dental hygienists from the institution. Following her graduation, Melissa gained valuable experience working in various clinical dental hygiene settings across central Vermont.
Melissa is happily married to her husband, Jon, and they are proud parents to two teenagers, Riley and Lydia. Despite her demanding career and family responsibilities, Melissa demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination by pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in dental hygiene with a minor in community health during the challenging pandemic. Her ability to successfully juggle full-time work, academic studies, and raising two active teenagers serves as an inspiring example to her children, showcasing the boundless possibilities that hard work can unlock.
Having successfully completed her educational journey, Melissa has joined Sprucewood Dental on a per diem basis, bringing her wealth of knowledge and expertise to our team. She is passionate about empowering patients to achieve optimal oral health and emphasizes the crucial connection between oral health and overall well-being.
Outside of her professional commitments, Melissa dedicates much of her time to supporting her children’s sporting endeavors. Both Riley and Lydia are actively involved in year-round sports, and Melissa serves on two boards associated with their athletic activities, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to her family and community.
Stacy Placey, CDA, EFDA / Expanded Function Dental Assistant
Stacy has been a dedicated dental assistant since 2003. In 2008, she became a Certified Dental Assistant and in 2010, she achieved the high level training of Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA). Stacy’s passion for dentistry is evident in her unwavering commitment to providing exceptional care to every patient.
Stacy is a valued member of our team, known for her enthusiastic and compassionate approach. She believes in a collaborative effort among dental professionals to deliver the highest level of care possible. Her dedication extends beyond the dental chair, as she strives to create a comfortable and welcoming environment for all patients.
Outside of work, Stacy finds solace in the tranquility of the ocean. It is her happy place, where she rejuvenates and finds inspiration.
Fun fact: Stacy had the pleasure of working with Dr. Dionne and Dr. Fantone at her previous practice, fostering a strong bond that continues to this day.
Erin Chevalier, CDA, EFDA / Expanded Function Dental Assistant
Beginning her dental career in 2017 at an orthodontic office, Erin has been a dental assistant since then. She has been relishing her time at Sprucewood Dental, where she has learned and proficiently employed various dental procedures. Erin has made a significant impact in bringing bright smiles to many patients through the in-office whitening service. Her expertise in digital dental scanning and fabricating stunning ceramic crowns is noteworthy. Erin’s warm and welcoming nature helps patients feel at ease.
In 2024, Erin completed an extensive training to become an Expanded Function Dental Assistant. This qualification enables her to perform beautiful dental restorations, including tooth-colored fillings.
Outside of work, Erin enjoys spending quality time with her family and her beloved dog.
Stasi Ford, CDA / Certified Dental Assistant
Buffy Farrell, TDA / Traditional Dental Assistant
Buffy’s dental assisting journey began in 2009 when she worked in a mobile dental van, providing dental care to children in rural Vermont. Prior to that, she ran her own flower shop in Montpelier, VT.
As a dedicated dental assistant at Sprucewood Dental since the fall of 2021, Buffy strives to make every patient’s experience positive and comfortable. She enjoys assisting with various dental procedures and performing lab work with precision.
As the Lead Dental Assistant, Buffy’s exceptional organizational skills contribute to the smooth operation of the office. She adeptly handles a wide range of daily tasks, ensuring efficiency and quality care for all patients.
Outside of work, Buffy enjoys spending time with her husband, Chet, engaging in outdoor activities such as riding motorcycles and camping. They have three children and cherish the joys of being grandparents.