I am very proud to say that I am a Buffalo native. I have lived in Western New York my entire life, growing up in North Tonawanda and Clarence. I love the Buffalo area, and I can't imagine living anywhere else.

I attended the University of Rochester, and graduated with honors in 1999 with a B.S. degree in Microbiology/Immunology. I returned to Buffalo to attend the SUNY at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine and graduated magna cum laude with a minor in Pediatric Dentistry in 2004. I continued my dental education at the University at Buffalo, attending the postgraduate program in orthodontics from 2004-2007. During that time I earned a Certificate of Proficiency in Orthodontics and a M.S. degree in Oral Biology.

I was thrilled to join the well-respected practice of Dr. Andrew MacDonald and Dr. Edwin Tyska in 2007. Since that time I have had the privilege of treating patients in our Clarence and Tonawanda offices. I take great pleasure in getting to know our patients on a personal level and treating each one in a caring, professional manner. I feel our team works hard to give each patient the attention they deserve in a comfortable, considerate and welcoming environment.

The doctors in our practice regularly participate in continuing education programs to stay current on treatment methods, materials, and technology. We feel this allows us to provide our patients with more treatment options and better results. I am a member of several professional associations, which provide the opportunity for continuing education, including:

• Eighth District Orthodontic Academy
• Northeastern Society of Orthodontics
• American Association of Orthodontics
• Eighth District Dental Society
• Erie County Dental Society
• New York State Dental Association
• American Dental Association

Outside of the office, I am married to my husband, Joel Harden, a high school physics and math teacher, and like to spend my free time sewing and travelling. We have a standard poodle, Meli, who loves hiking, playing fetch and going on any adventure she can. Joel and I enjoy golfing, swimming, and cheering for the Buffalo Sabres.