Wendy loves dentistry and takes pleasure in seeing patients’ lives transformed by the smiles Dr. Rice creates for them, including dental implants that provide a permanent solution for missing teeth. She is an expert in helping patients understand their treatment plan as well as guiding them through the process to completion both comfortably and efficiently, all while ensuring the highest standard of dental care in Irvine. Wendy has worked with Dr. Scott Rice for close to 20 years as his office manager and patient advocate. If there is anything funny, silly, or exciting going on in the office, you can bet Wendy is behind it! Outside of the office, Wendy loves being actively involved in church service, acting, playing the piano, spending time with her family, hiking, boating, and traveling to foreign lands.
Becky has spent her entire career in the dental profession, both in the back and front office, with the last 13 years as the Scheduling Coordinator for Rice Dentistry. She enjoys dealing with people and assisting them with their concerns. Her focus is to make cosmetic dentistry a welcome aspect of the patient’s healthcare, from the moment you enter the door until you leave with your dental needs fulfilled. Becky works to ensure that every patient is as comfortable as possible, offering options like sedation dentistry to make treatments stress-free. The knowledge that there is no finer dental office in the area makes this much more satisfying. Becky is proud of the service we provide, and patient feedback is a reflection of our efforts. Outside of the office, Becky enjoys reading, exercising, and spending time with her family and friends.
Mary is the first face you see upon entering our office. She enjoys getting to know our patients and helping them feel comfortable with their dental appointments, often working with patients seeking Invisalign to straighten their teeth discreetly and comfortably. Her dental career began as a young teen working in her father’s dental office. Both of her parents made dentistry a career, so she naturally followed in their footsteps. Mary takes great pride in ensuring each patient feels at ease while receiving the highest standard of care. In her spare time, she loves outdoor activities and spending time with her 4 children, family, and friends.
Tracy has been a hygienist for over 30 years and has been part of the Rice Team for over 20! She started her career in dentistry at the age of 16, working in her mother’s dental office, who was an assistant. Tracy finds great joy in caring for her patients and helping them see the value of preventative dentistry, emphasizing the importance of healthy teeth and gums and how they are linked to overall body health. She enjoys movies, music, and travel with her husband Craig, of 33 years. Tracy has 2 daughters—her oldest, an actress in Seattle, and her youngest, a musician and music education teacher.
Miki graduated from USC Dental Hygiene in 1982. Coming from a dental background, with her father and brothers being dentists, she loves keeping current with the newest developments in dentistry. She is passionate about helping patients maintain their oral health through routine dental cleanings & exams, ensuring they receive the best care possible. Miki enjoys travel and is extremely adventurous. She stays in shape by running a household of 5 children, which also keeps her prepared for the marathons she runs.
Manuela (Nellie) was born in Mexico and raised in Tecate, Baja California. She attended Bocanegra College for four years and in 1987, immigrated to the United States seeking better opportunities in life for her and her son. In 1989, she was introduced to the world of dentistry and has been passionate about it ever since. She attended UCLA where she acquired her RDAEF and has now been in the field for over 24 years. Nellie loves to Salsa dance and is a very talented cook, creating Mexican dishes from her childhood roots. She also cherishes spending time with her son and granddaughter.
Melissa was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, receiving her Dental Hygiene Degree in 2002. Her husband’s job transfer led the family to Orange County in March of 2015. After completing her California Dental Hygiene requirements, she has been working with Rice Dentistry since July 2015. Melissa enjoys using her Southern hospitality to build relationships with each patient and improving their quality of life through good oral hygiene, including comprehensive dental care exams to ensure optimal health. When not practicing dental hygiene, Melissa enjoys spending time watching her 3 kids play sports, traveling to tropical places, and spending time at the local beaches.
Ann, a Southern California native, graduated top of her class from the OC Dental Academy. She has a thirst for continuing education and is the queen of multi-tasking. She is able to accomplish detail oriented tasks with accuracy, while directing the clinical team in a high paced environment. Her witty and positive attitude radiates throughout the office.
Ann cherishes time spent in the great outdoors with her family, watching her son surf and moments with her daughter. Enjoying a simple sunset or sunrise, mountain biking, hiking, running, swimming, and playing the piano, Ann strives for a healthy lifestyle. When time allows, Ann can be found exploring the beautiful landscapes of Portland, Oregon with her brother and sister.
Desaree’s description coming soon…
