Meet The Team
Elysa
Financial/Insurance Coordinator
Aloha! My name is Elysa, I have been in the dental field since 2007 and here with Dr Ogata, at Smile Hawaii, since 2017. I most enjoy the results and satisfaction our patients see and feel when they have reached the completion of their dental treatment. In my free time, I enjoy going to the beach with my other half Stephen, playing with our two pups and cooking. Whenever I’m able to travel, I enjoy visiting my sister and her family in Alabama and going fishing in Alaska during the late summer.
Maylin
Admin Assistant
Aloha, my name is May. I'm originally from the Big Island and moved to Maui in 2017 to pursue a degree in Culinary Arts, in which I earned my A.A.S. in May of 2020. I started in the Dental field in 2023 while also working in the culinary industry and have developed a deep passion for ensuring that all patients receive the care they need and deserve. Whether I am assisting in getting patients scheduled for appointments, educating about the financial aspects, or ensuring a welcoming environment, I find purpose in helping others feel confident and cared for. Aside from working at Smile Hawaii, I am also the head chef for Umi Sushi and run the hotline kitchen. In my free time, I enjoy watching cooking shows and creating recipes, and also dabbling in amateur photography. I also enjoy spending time with my boyfriend and going to the beach. I look forward to meeting all of our patients and being a part of your dental journey!
Maria
Dental Hygienist
I am bilingual in both English and Spanish. Prior to graduating Hygiene school from UHMC in 2011 I was fortunate to work in several aspects of dentistry and have gained a wide array of knowledge along the way. I have a cheerful personality, love building trusting relationships with patients while maintaining a comfortable environment. I married my husband, Eric in 2014, we have one daughter, Mahina. Together we enjoy being outdoors taking in all the beauty Maui has to offer.
Noelle
Dental Hygienist
Aloha! My name is Noelle and I was born and raised in Lahaina, Maui. I am also the third generation to graduate from Lahainaluna High School. From the age of 7, I knew that I wanted to work in the dental field. I pursued my dream at UH Manoa and in 2010, I graduated with a Bachelor's degree in science for Dental Hygiene. As a registered dental hygienist, I started my career in Oahu and worked at different offices gaining knowledge from various dentists and communities. Missing Maui, I moved back to Lahaina in 2017 with my husband and first child. Now I have 2 boys and maybe a girl soon. I love that I get to help the Maui community stay healthy and keep smiles shining bright!
Kim
Dental Assistant
Hello, I’m Kimverlee but you can call me Kim! I was born in Ilocos Norte, Philippines and I moved to Maui when I was 1 year old. Fun fact, I actually celebrated my 1st birthday on the airplane! I started with Smile Hawaii in May 2022 and grew curious to learn more about the dental field. I’m currently a student at UH: Maui College, pursuing a major in Dental Hygiene. I’m a big foodie and I enjoy traveling so, I’m always on the lookout for delicious foods to eat. My favorite place to visit would have to be New York for the diversity in atmosphere, food and people.
Jaedan
Dental Assistant
Aloha, my name is Jaeedan. I was born on Maui and raised in Waihe'e Valley. I've always loved going to the dentist as a kid. My passion for dentistry grew as I got older, and I started dental assisting in 2017. I took a six-year break from assisting and joined the aviation field, specifically helicopters. Still, I decided that dental assisting was my true calling and returned to the field in 2024. I enjoy being able to take part in helping people and doing all that I can to ensure that they feel comfortable and are taken care of in our dental practice. In my free time, I love to hang out with my friends and family, whether it's going to the beach or eating together. One fun fact about me is that I have had the opportunity to fly a helicopter from Utah to Wyoming a few years ago. I'm happy to be a part of Smile Hawaii's team, and I look forward to meeting you!