Dr. Kristen Guptill, DDS
Dr. Guptill, affectionately known as “Dr. G,” believes in the delicate balance of clinical experience and didactic knowledge, using both to drive truly holistic patient care. She is deeply committed to listening to her patients, supporting and educating them as they work toward achieving optimal oral health. Dr. G strongly emphasizes the doctor–patient relationship and fosters an environment centered on patient involvement and collaboration.
With a passion for prevention and comprehensive care, she is especially interested in the connection between the mouth and the body, recognizing that the mouth is the gateway to overall health.
A proud Jamaican native, Dr. G graduated from the University of Mary in North Dakota. She always knew she wanted to become a dentist and went on to earn her dental degree from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry. She then completed a General Practice Residency at Jacobi Medical Center in New York.
Dr. G dedicated five years to Public Health in Grand Forks, North Dakota, before moving to California and eventually relocating to Traverse City, where she continues to serve her community with compassion and excellence.
During her time at the University of Mary, Dr. G also pursued track and field, where she met her husband, Troy, a fellow collegiate athlete. They have been happily married for 10 years and enjoy life at full speed, chasing after their four rambunctious toddlers and their Australian Shepherd, Kota.
Dr. Noor Al Mansi, DDS
Dr. Noor Al Mansi earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2018. She went on to complete a hospital-based residency program at the University of Michigan in 2019, where she received advanced training in comprehensive and hospital dentistry. Her residency experience strengthened her expertise in complex treatment planning, emergency care, and multidisciplinary dental procedures. Dr. Al Mansi served as adjutant clinical instructor affiliated with the University of Michigan.
Dr. Al Mansi’s passion for dentistry began at a young age, inspired by her grandmother, a retired dentist. Watching her grandmother provide compassionate care and create confident smiles sparked Dr. Al Mansi’s desire to help others achieve their dental goals. Today, she remains committed to delivering the same warmth, comfort, and personalized care to every patient she serves.
Jheri Smolin, BS, RDH
Jheri is a registered dental hygienist (RDH) with more than 20 years of experience in the dental field, beginning her career as a dental assistant before advancing into clinical hygiene. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Education and Training from Oakland University in 1993 and later received her RDH credential from Baker College in 2014.
She has authored professional training in infection control, underscoring her dedication to clinical safety standards and education.
Since 2021, Jheri has worked at Garfield Dental, bringing a compassionate, education-centered approach that supports patients in feeling informed and confident in their care.
In 2024, Jheri was honored as the American Dental Hygiene Association’s Dental Hygienist of the Year, recognizing her dedication to the profession and to patient well-being. She also serves as Treasurer for the Northland Dental Hygienists’ Association, contributing to leadership, professional development, and the advancement of the dental hygiene profession.
Outside the clinic, Jheri enjoys yoga, biking, kayaking, traveling, and exploring the outdoors, all of which reflect her commitment to staying active and maintaining a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
Julie Sarya, BSc, RDH
Julie was born and raised in Canada where she received a Bachelor of Science degree at the University of Guelph in 1993. She then attended the University of Michigan where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene. She has been a dental hygienist at the Garfield Dental Group since 2003.
She has two adult children and enjoys working outtraveling with her husband Dan, as well as volunteering at the Great Lakes Humane Society.
Allison Litwinski, RDH
Allison is a highly skilled Registered Dental Hygienist with two decades of experience in patient care. A proud graduate of Ferris State University, she brings both clinical expertise and a genuine passion for educating patients about their oral health.
Outside the office, Allison commutes from her family farm in Kalkaska, where she enjoys the balance of rural life, raising her children, and tending to her animals.
Her calm, friendly approach helps patients feel at ease, and she is frequently complimented for her gentle touch and thorough care.
Allison’s dedication, professionalism, and warm personality make her an invaluable part of our dental hygiene team.
Paige, Dental Assistant
Dawn, Dental Assistant
Jenna, Administration
