Stephanie Peebus, RDH, Dental Hygienist

Stephanie has had a rewarding and fulfilling career as a dental hygienist since 1990. She graduated from the University of Texas Dental Branch in Houston, Texas where she grew up and moved to Austin after graduation. She joined River Place Dental in February 2009 and truly enjoys working with Dr. Shook, Dr. James and the rest of the team. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, especially camping and boating. She also likes cooking, gardening and taking long walks

“My goal is to provide the best possible care while educating my patients on proper dental hygiene. I create a comfortable environment and dedicate my time to each and every patient. I stay up-to-date on the latest advancements and current trends by attending continuing education courses and share that information with my patients.”

April Wright, RDH, Dental Hygienist

April is one of our two amazing hygienists. She began her passion for the dental field in 1996. She graduated from hygiene school in Tyler, Texas. April grew up in East Texas, but was thrilled to move to Austin in August 2010. She is very excited to gain a new dental family, where she can earn the confidence and trust from her new patients. Once away from the office, April enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, wine tasting and being lazy on Sundays.

“I strive to obtain happy patients each and every day by providing my absolute best. My goal is to help you enjoy your clean smile.”

Cristina Crossland, Financial Coordinator

Cristina came to Austin from Seattle, Washington where she was born and raised. She moved to Austin with her son four years ago in search of warm weather and southern values. Cristina is very excited about her recent engagement to Thomas and hopes to get married in June 2012. She enjoys spending her free time with her son Elijah and new daughter Mia.

“I enjoy getting to know our patients and helping them financially accomplish their dental wishes and needs. I feel fortunate to work with such amazing doctors and team.”

Gail Chambers, Patient Coordinator

Gail was born in Wichita, Kansas but moved to Texas when she was three. She grew up in Dallas but has called Austin home since 1990. As our Patient Coordinator she helps our patients with their dental concerns and needs. Gail loves spending time with her son Griffin, their cat “Sugar Boy” and her family and friends. She enjoys cooking, playing cards and board games and yoga.

“My goal is to provide exceptional patient care from the patient’s first phone call to the office, through their restorative care and then when they return for their cleanings and periodontal maintenance appointments. I love helping people.”

Caroline Witte, RDA, Dental Assistant

Caroline is a native Texan, born and raised in Austin. She has been assisting for many years, but thanks to her uncle has been around dentistry her whole life. Caroline spends most of her free time with her fiancé David and her two dogs. They love going to the lake and also to the ranch where Caroline trains horses.

“Every moment is an experience. Excellence is not a skill. It’s an attitude."
- Anonymous

Samantha “Sam” Kappelmann, RDA, Dental Assistant

Samantha was born in Colorado Springs, Colorado. She moved to Texas with her family when she was two and she has been in Austin ever since. Samantha is fairly new to the Dental Assisting field and loves her work. She attended Texas State and completed her Dental Assistants training there. When not working, Samantha loves the outdoors and hanging out with friends and family. Samantha especially enjoys her (Malti-poo) little man “Brady’.

“Action is the foundational key to all success.” - Anthony Robbins

Mike Block, Dental Assistant

Mike recently graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in Human Biology. Mike has wanted to be a dentist since he was a child and is planning on attending dental school in Texas starting in the fall of 2012. When it comes to leisure activities, Mike likes to spend his free time with friends, enjoying the unique culture of Austin.

“I am excited to have the opportunity to work at River Place Dental with such a talented and caring staff, gaining insight into the dental world. Everyday is a blast.”