Our Story

We're your neighbors, not a corporate chain.

Founded in 2011 by Dr. Sarah Chen, RiverVale Dental was built on a simple belief: dental care should be accessible, anxiety-free, and rooted in genuine community connection. We live here, our kids go to school here, and we're committed to the long-term health of the families we serve.

Meet Your Care Team

Real people who care about your smile and your community.

Dr. Sarah Chen, DDS

General Dentist & Practice Owner

Dr. Chen founded RiverVale Dental in 2011 after graduating from NYU College of Dentistry. Her mission was simple: make dental care accessible and anxiety-free for families in her community. She completed advanced training in sedation dentistry and has helped over 2,000 patients overcome dental anxiety. A Rivergate resident since 2008, Dr. Chen volunteers monthly at the Rivergate Food Bank and serves on the North Oak Community Health Initiative board. When she's not in the office, you'll find her cheering on her two kids at North Oak Little League or exploring local hiking trails.

Credentials & Experience

NYU College of Dentistry, 2009
Sedation Dentistry Certification, 2012
Member, American Dental Association
15+ years experience

Dr. Michael Torres, DMD

Cosmetic & Restorative Dentist

A Rivergate native, Dr. Torres returned home in 2016 after completing his DMD at Boston University and an Advanced Aesthetic Dentistry Fellowship. He specializes in smile design, veneers, and complex restorative work. Dr. Torres is passionate about helping patients achieve the confident smile they've always wanted through natural-looking cosmetic procedures. He's a proud sponsor of Rivergate High School athletics (his alma mater) and serves on the board of the North Oak Community Health Initiative. In his free time, he coaches youth basketball and enjoys woodworking.

Credentials & Experience

Boston University Goldman School, 2014
Advanced Aesthetic Dentistry Fellowship, 2015
Invisalign Certified Provider
Member, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry

Jessica Martinez, RDH

Lead Dental Hygienist

Jessica has been with RiverVale Dental since day one in 2011. Her gentle touch and patient education approach have helped hundreds of anxious patients feel comfortable during cleanings. She specializes in periodontal therapy and takes pride in teaching families (especially kids) how to maintain healthy smiles at home. Jessica is a mom of three, an active member of the Brookhaven PTA, and volunteers at local elementary schools teaching oral health education.

Credentials & Experience

Registered Dental Hygienist since 2010
Periodontal Therapy Specialist
Certified in Laser Therapy

Amanda Lee

Office Manager & Patient Coordinator

Amanda is the friendly voice you'll hear when you call and the welcoming face at our front desk. She handles scheduling, insurance questions, and makes sure every patient feels at home from the moment they walk in. With 8 years in dental practice management, Amanda knows how to navigate insurance complexities and help patients maximize their benefits. A Rivergate resident for 20 years, she knows the community inside and out and can recommend the best local coffee shops while you wait.

Credentials & Experience

Insurance specialist
8 years in dental practice management
Certified Patient Care Coordinator

Our Practice Journey

Over a decade of serving Rivergate families and giving back to our community.

2011

Dr. Chen opens RiverVale Dental with a mission to serve Rivergate families

2015

Became proud sponsor of Rivergate High School athletics and North Oak Little League

2016

Dr. Torres joins the practice, adding cosmetic and restorative expertise

2018

Launched annual free dental screening program at North Oak Community Center

2020

Upgraded to digital X-ray technology and enhanced infection control protocols

2023

Celebrated serving 2,000+ Rivergate families and expanded Saturday hours

Our Philosophy

We believe in preventive care, transparent treatment plans, and taking the time to explain every step. Whether you're here for a routine cleaning or a complex restoration, you'll never feel rushed or pressured.

Dental anxiety is real, and we take it seriously. That's why we offer sedation options, explain procedures in plain language, and create a calm, welcoming environment. Our goal is to help you maintain a healthy smile for life—not just treat problems as they arise.

Prevention-first approach to avoid costly surprises

Transparent pricing and insurance guidance

Same-day urgent care when you need it most

Family-friendly environment where kids feel safe

Our Commitment to You

We're not just your dentists—we're your neighbors. Dr. Chen and Dr. Torres live in Rivergate, shop at the same stores, and send their kids to the same schools as you do.

That local connection matters. When you trust us with your family's dental health, you're supporting a practice that reinvests in this community through youth sports sponsorships, free health screenings, and volunteer work at local organizations.

Dr. Chen with patient at RiverVale Dental

RiverVale Dental team at community health fair