Rochelle Riley, D.D.S., M.S. of Northwest Dental Medicine in Puyallup, was destined to follow in her father's footsteps of being a dentist. Her father practiced in Tucson, Arizona, and it is where Riley would eventually attend college. She graduated from the University of Arizona with a Bachelor of Science in the field of General Biology and a Master of Science in the field of Human Physiology. Riley then went on to graduate from the University of Colorado Health Services with her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 2006. But Riley was passionate about more than dentistry. "I have always wanted to serve my country," said Riley. During the Desert Storm War era, she found herself fascinated with places like Vietnam, and it really inspired her to a military career. Riley enlisted in the Air National Guard in Tucson where she would be able to follow both of her career dreams.

For the last five-and-a-half years, Riley has served in the Air Force with the 162nd Wing Arizona Air National Guard. She has earned the rank of major while maintaining her license to practice dentistry not only in Arizona but Washington as well. Riley met her husband, who lived in Washington and having both been previously married, she took a big leap of faith to move to be with him. Riley balances working full time at Northwest Dental Medicine and working a few days a month at Arizona Dental Medicine, all while fulfilling her military responsibilities with the Air National Guard in Tucson.

Riley also serves as the chief of Dental Services for the 162nd Wing Arizona Air National Guard, which she says is her most rewarding achievement. Riley loves that both of her careers encompass dentistry. "I love doing dentistry," said Riley. "I love helping people feel good about smiling." Her dedication to her patients as well as her enthusiasm and overall rapport with her patients has earned her a loyal following. Some of her Arizona patients will wait an entire month just to see her the next time she is at the office.

When she isn't traveling regularly between Arizona and Washington, Riley enjoys spending time with her husband and stepchildren. She also has two dogs, three cats and two horses, all of who have been rescue animals. Riley is just as passionate about animals as she is with all things in her life. "Always adopt," she said. "Never shop."

While she has served our country in the Air National Guard, Riley says that her main focus is her dental career. Her long-term goals include to continue to grow her practice while bringing a wealth of dental knowledge to the community in which she serves. "I want to help people learn about their oral health and how to maintain their teeth," said Riley. Whatever may come her way, Riley is sure to put forth the hard work and dedication that she is known for. And of course, with a smile on her face.

For dental related questions or inquiries or to schedule an appointment, please call Northwest Dental Medicine at: 253.845.9507.