Glendale
623-825-9445Our caring and knowledgeable dentists in Glendale, Arizona, and Phoenix, Arizona, look forward to fulfilling your dental needs now and for many years to come. We believe in establishing a long-lasting, mutually beneficial relationship with patients and are committed to providing high-quality comprehensive dentistry in an environment that is both mellow and upbeat. We work together to give patients the most comfortable and convenient dental experience possible and are also able to assist you in both English and Spanish. New Image Dentistry & Orthodontics invites you to get to know Dr. Darshan Patel, Dr. Maria Gonzalez-Cook and Dr. Dominic Tam better by reading their bios below!
Darshan Patel, DMD
Dr. Patel believes that practicing orthodontics is not only about straightening teeth, but also about the people that walk into the office each day. He is passionate about forming relationships with every one of his patients and earning their trust through communication, compassion and empathy. As a board-certified orthodontist, Dr. Patel believes in providing a high-quality, tailored experience that makes treatments easier and more comfortable.
Originally from Los Angeles, California, Dr. Patel moved to Mesa, Arizona, in 2015 to complete his dental training at the Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health (ASDOH). At graduation, he was inducted into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon (OKU) Dental Honor Society.
Following graduation, he continued his orthodontic specialty training at the ASDOH Postgraduate Orthodontic Program (ASDOH-POP), serving as chief resident during his final year of residency. Dr. Patel graduated with a Master of Science in Orthodontics and received his Certificate in Orthodontics. He went on to become a board-certified orthodontist from the American Board of Orthodontics following graduation.
Maria Gonzalez-Cook, DDS
Dr. Maria Gonzalez-Cook’s approach to dentistry has always been centered around the constant appreciation and honest care for her patients by providing them with the exceptional attention and care they deserve. She is very comfortable in practicing all facets of general and cosmetic dentistry and is rewarded by the beautiful smiles from her happy patients.
She graduated in 1990 from the school of dentistry at Universidad Central in Venezuela and was first licensed in the state of California in 1993. She later received her license to practice dentistry in Spain and the European Union from the University of Oviedo, Spain, in 2011. She is has practiced dentistry in California, Spain and Arizona. She is an active member of the American Dental Association®, Arizona Dental Association and Academy of General Dentistry.
She enjoys volunteering and supports humanitarian causes. She has volunteered her time and dentistry skills supporting missions to Vietnam. Dr. Cook has also given her time and culinary skills for supporting fundraising events for breast cancer awareness. She became a member of the Flying Samaritans Arizona after relocating to Arizona, and she actively donates her dentistry skills to this all-volunteer, nonsectarian, health-oriented organization serving and working with medical, optometry and dental personnel. They fly to remote areas of Baja California, Mexico, to help supplement medical care for the local populations.
Maria is the proud mother of two adult children. When she has free time, she enjoys entertaining and cooking for friends and family utilizing her skills as a gourmet cook. She enjoys traveling to visit family and friends in the USA and Europe.
Dominic Tam, DMD
I was born in Taiwan. I moved to the U.S. in 1988 and attended high school at the San Francisco Bay Area. I graduated from UC Berkeley and attended SFSU for graduate study then worked at UCSF doing research from 1999 to 2002. I attended Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine and graduated in 2006 with honors. I then worked at University of Medicine and Dentistry at New Jersey as an oral surgery intern from 2006 to 2007. I moved from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Phoenix, Arizona. I focus on general dentistry, implants, orthodontics, and full-mouth reconstruction/All-on-4® hybrid prosthesis. For fun, I like swimming, running, badminton, cycling and hiking, and I also love spending time with my family and two dogs, explore the wilderness and learn how to lose weight.
Ami, Office Manager
Ami is an experienced and dedicated Office Manager at our practice, having joined us in July 2022 with over 15 years of expertise in the dental field. She completed her education at the prestigious Dental Assistant Training Academy in Utah. Ami’s passion lies in assisting our patients as they embark on their journey towards achieving their dental health goals. She truly believes in providing the highest quality of care for our patients, ensuring their satisfaction and well-being. Outside of work, Ami enjoys spending quality time engaging in various activities with her three children, including reading, dancing, hiking, and indulging in outdoor adventures.
Karen, Receptionist
Meet Karen, our valuable receptionist at the practice, having joined our team in January 2023. With her warm and welcoming demeanor, she truly enjoys interacting and meeting people of all ages, making every patient feel comfortable and important. Karen contributes significantly to the success of our practice by efficiently keeping patients on track with their treatment by skillfully scheduling their appointments. Moreover, she handles new patient consultations with utmost care and professionalism. Outside of work, Karen indulges in her hobbies of collecting vinyl records and watching horror movies.
Melissa, Billing and Insurance Coordinator
Meet Melissa, our talented Billing and Insurance Coordinator at New Image Dentistry & Orthodontics. With a degree in Dental Assisting from the prestigious Bryman School in 2013, Melissa joined our practice in September 2019, bringing her extensive knowledge and dedication to the team. What Melissa loves most about being a part of our practice is the sense of family and the exceptional teamwork that drives us to deliver the best care possible. As a key contributor to the success of the practice, Melissa goes above and beyond to ensure that patients receive optimal treatment and efficient insurance financing. When she’s not working, Melissa enjoys spending quality time with her family, creating delectable edible arrangements, and indulging in various craft projects.
Lorena, Dental Hygiene Coordinator
Lorena is the Dental Hygiene Coordinator at our practice, bringing her expertise and passion for patient care since July 2022. With her dental hygiene education from Phoenix College in 2019, Lorena is well equipped to provide exceptional care to our patients. She loves being a part of our practice because it allows her to constantly grow and develop professionally. Lorena contributes to the success of our practice by always giving her best effort and ensuring excellent patient care. Outside of work, Lorena enjoys spending time with her furry companion and taking long walks in the park. Her hobbies include embracing her creativity through nails, hair, and makeup.
Teresa, Dental Hygienist
“My passion is helping patients achieve their oral health goals, whether that includes a better, brighter or healthier smile. I want to be part of that journey.”
Teresa is friendly, gentle and thorough in the care she gives, and she is fluent in Spanish and English. She was raised in Phoenix, AZ. She is certified in anesthesia and laser dentistry and is currently working on her bachelor’s degree. Her dream is to become a part-time dental hygiene instructor. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking and exploring the outdoors with her two kids.
Jessica, Lead Dental Assistant
Jessica is the Lead Dental Assistant at our practice, bringing her extensive knowledge and skills to ensure the comfort of every procedure. Having joined our team in October 2016, she attended the Dental Assisting program at Apollo College back in 2005. Jessica’s strong sense of compassion and empathy allows her to forge meaningful connections with patients, ensuring they feel at ease throughout their dental experience. Beyond her professional responsibilities, she is a dedicated mother of three daughters and enjoys indulging in hobbies such as baking, reading, and cherishing quality family time through movie nights and vacations.
Ellizabeth, Dental Assistant
Elizabeth is a passionate and dedicated Dental Assistant who joined our practice in August 2021. After graduating from Arizona College in 2015, she has been an invaluable asset to our team. Elizabeth’s favorite part of being a part of our practice is helping patients regain confidence in their smiles. She also plays a crucial role in the success of our practice by striving to alleviate discomfort and pain for our patients. Outside of work, Elizabeth enjoys cooking, hitting the gym, exploring new destinations, and cherishing quality time with her loved ones.
Cynthia, Ortho Assistant
Meet Cynthia, our talented Ortho Assistant who has been a valuable member of our practice since April 2023. Cynthia attended Altrain Assisting Academy and has since honed her expertise in providing exceptional care to our patients. What she loves most about being a part of our practice is the positive work environment that empowers her team to deliver the highest standard of care and attention to each individual. Cynthia contributes to the success of our practice through her unwavering positive attitude and her eagerness to learn and grow alongside her peers. Outside of work, Cynthia indulges in her love for cooking and baking, browsing online shops, listening to intriguing true crime podcasts, and embracing her fascination with Star Wars.
Viridiana, Ortho Assistant
Viridiana is an accomplished dental assistant who joined our practice in June 2022 after completing her education at Altrain Dental Assisting Academy. With her passion for learning and dedication to excellence, she consistently enhances her skills and knowledge, ensuring exceptional patient care. Viridiana’s invaluable contributions to the success of our practice can be seen in her commitment to keeping appointments on schedule and providing a patient-centered experience. Her patient and motivated nature make her an invaluable asset to our team.
