Meet Dr. Maria Garubba – Your Trusted Dentist at Next Chapter Smiles in Lehigh Valley

Ang earned her dental assisting certificate in 2011 and met Dr. Garubba in 2019. They quickly developed a partnership that has been sometimes called "The Maria and Ang Show." Patients love how they play off of each other in order to keep you comfortable, distracted, and amused throughout your appointment. You can count on Ang to keep your mind off of your anxieties by inviting you to share in our personal dramas as we plan birthday parties, vacations, and weekend adventures. Before you know it, your appointment is over. When Ang isn't closing all of the cabinets that Dr Garubba leaves open, she is devoting her kindness to her husband, family, friends, and her church community. She always seems to be in charge of throwing the next celebration and she never disappoints.

Becky has been working in the dental field for over 30 years and her expertise is evident in her ability to guide our patients through treatment in a way that maximizes their dental benefits and achieves their dental goals. She likes to think of dental insurance as a mystery (isn't that how we all feel?) and she is your detective, ready to solve. We prefer to think of her as a superhero. You can rely on Becky to clarify the confusion that so often accompanies coming to the dentist. Outside of her dental life, Becky spends her time with her husband and two sons, participating in bowling leagues, attending football games, and exploring lighthouses along the East Coast.

Carla graduated from dental hygiene school in 2007. She also has her local anesthesia license, which means that she can administer the injections that provide numbing comfort during treatment. She met Dr Garubba while substituting for another hygienist and it was clear that she was one of the best. Carla's relaxed and gentle demeanor puts all of her patients at ease. She is incredibly efficient while still being thorough and providing quality care. She often assists the doctor as well, which makes her extremely knowledgeable of all types of dental procedures. She has a wonderful way of explaining them to you without creating confusion. Outside of the office, Carla is mom to Renna and Rowan, and puts her remaining energies into fitness, DIY home projects, and spiritual wellness. 444

Megan began dentistry as a dental assistant, then earned her dental hygiene degree in 2013. She then continued her education to become an expanded function dental assistant. This means that she is certified to administer local anesthesia and also place dental fillings in addition to her skills as a dental hygienist. Megan is happiest when she can help her patients to get their treatment completed in the most efficient way possible. This means less visits and less needles. Don't be surprised if she asks you if you want to stay for more dentistry! (Only if you need it, of course). Megan keeps us laughing with her quick wit and fabulous storytelling. When she is not entertaining us, she is entertaining her kids, Leo and Leddie, and perfecting her beauty routine to keep that perfect skin flawless.

Melinda is your ally if you are anxious about coming to the dentist. She is too! She often jokes that one way to get over the sound of the dental drill is to work at the front desk in a dental office. Melinda started her career in dentistry at Next Chapter Smiles with Dr. Garubba and has been learning the dental world at a rapid rate. She will put you at ease with her infectious laugh and is sure to make you feel like one of the family. Melinda is driven by accuracy and completion, so you can count on her to keep your account with us in order. When Melinda is home, she is busy with her son, Eli, who has pledged to buy her a house made of gold when he grows up.