Meet Surfside Pediatric Dentistry

Adam Hagan, DDS, FAAPD

Owner

Dr. Adam as he is better known by his patients first became interested in dentistry while working on a cleft lip and palate research project at the University of the Pacific in San Francisco. He traveled to Guatemala taking blood samples and helping specially trained dentists and plastic surgeons make devices that aided in their surgery. Dr. Adam continued his interest in research and spent a busy year before dental school at Stanford University studying the maternal‐child relationship in multiple sclerosis.

Adam Hagan, DDS, FAAPD

Owner

Dr. Adam as he is better known by his patients first became interested in dentistry while working on a cleft lip and palate research project at the University of the Pacific in San Francisco. He traveled to Guatemala taking blood samples and helping specially trained dentists and plastic surgeons make devices that aided in their surgery. Dr. Adam continued his interest in research and spent a busy year before dental school at Stanford University studying the maternal‐child relationship in multiple sclerosis.

Christie Sankowski, DMD, FAAPD

Owner

Dr. Christie grew up in upstate New York, at the foot of the Adirondack mountains. She completed her undergraduate degree as a dietitian from Syracuse University, graduating summa cum laude. She has always loved guiding children and families to healthy lifestyle choices. Dr. Christie is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, in Philadelphia and completed her pediatric dental residency with Dr. Adam at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.

Christie Sankowski, DMD, FAAPD

Owner

Dr. Christie grew up in upstate New York, at the foot of the Adirondack mountains. She completed her undergraduate degree as a dietitian from Syracuse University, graduating summa cum laude. She has always loved guiding children and families to healthy lifestyle choices. Dr. Christie is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, in Philadelphia and completed her pediatric dental residency with Dr. Adam at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.

Mia Ozimba-Mbuya, DDS

Dr. MOM was born and primarily raised in southwest Georgia. She received her undergraduate degree in biology from the University of Alabama in Birmingham where she excelled and went on to pursue her dream of studying dentistry at Meharry Medical College in Nashville, TN. She attended NYU Langone Advanced Education of General Dentistry Program in St. Croix, Virgin Islands.

Roma Patel, DDS

Dr. Roma was born and brought up in the northwest suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. She graduated from Marquette University in 2020 where she obtained her bachelor’s degree in biomedical sciences before going on to pursue her dream of studying dentistry at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska.

Roma Patel, DDS

Dr. Roma was born and brought up in the northwest suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. She graduated from Marquette University in 2020 where she obtained her bachelor’s degree in biomedical sciences before going on to pursue her dream of studying dentistry at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska.

Specialized Dental Care:

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Specialized Needs

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Autism

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Growth and Development

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Sedation

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Medically Complex

Dental Services Provided Include:

In-Office Sedation

BPA-Free Sealants

Tooth-Colored Fillings & Crowns

Tongue-Tie Treatment

Laser Dentistry

Low-Radiation Dental Technology

Jim Hagan | Surfside Kids Pediatric Dentistry
Jim Hagan, BA
Director of Business Operations

I am from Nebraska but moved away for a career in the Air Force. I spent the majority of my service in Italy and Spain maintaining C-141’s and C-5’s. After my military retirement, I joined Ford Motor company and managed the distribution of their parts network. I retired again to be close to grandchildren and now call Tybee Island home and love living on the beach. My experience in logistics helps the Surfside team navigate the complexities of insurance reimbursement.

Andrea Fuller | Surfside Kids Pediatric Dentistry
Andrea Fuller, RDH
Practice Manager

I’m from Arizona, but I’ve lived in Georgia for 8 years. I’m married with 3 kids and love reading, chocolate, and letting loose with my kids on roller coasters and bungee jumping! I enjoy working with kids because of how funny they can be, it keeps my job interesting! I love working at Surfside and hope you enjoy coming here too!

Jamie Carmack | Surfside Kids Pediatric Dentistry
Jamie Carmack, EFDA
Office Team Coordinator (Brunswick)

Originally from Kentucky, Jamie relocated to Brunswick, Georgia in 2016 and started her journey with Surfside Kids in 2019. With a lifelong passion for working with children, Jamie quickly discovered the joy and reward in helping kids find their self-confidence by having a healthy smile. After all, a smile is the best accessory! In her free time Jamie and her boyfriend enjoy spoiling their three dogs, Cooper, Dolly, and Penny.

Fun Fact: Some of Jamie’s favorite activities include relaxing at the beach, watching investigative documentaries, and going on shopping trips.

Sarah Emerick | Surfside Kids Pediatric Dentistry
Sarah Emerick, BA

Patient Care Supervisor

While being stationed with her husband and children in coastal Georgia, Sarah joined Surfside Kids in 2019. Upon her husband’s retirement from the U.S. Army, Sarah and her family relocated to a small farm in rural Pennsylvania where she continues to work remotely as the Patient Care Supervisor. With a degree in Business and Human Resources, Sarah has an innate talent for matching team members to the jobs that best fit their natural gifts and passions. In her freetime, she can often be found hiking or at the baseball field watching her boys play.

Fun Fact: Sarah’s favorite farm animal is her duck named Sparkles, a name she chose because it is impossible to say “Sparkles” without smiling.

Ashlie Alvey | Surfside Kids Pediatric Dentistry
Ashlie Alvey
Marketing and Creative Director

Born and raised in small town Indiana, Ashlie along with her two children, Lillie and Nijel, traded in the cold winters and cornfields of the Midwest for the sand, sea, and sunshine of coastal Georgia in 2017. Prior to joining the Surfside Kids team, Ashlie spent over a decade in the children’s entertainment industry where she was blessed to bring joy, laughter, and imagination to her community through her art as a professional face and body painter. In her free-time, Ashlie loves putting together puzzles with her daughter, throwing the football with her son, checking off her bucket list items, and collecting an abundance of hard-to-kill houseplants.

Fun Fact: Ashlie’s dream is to one day author and illustrate children’s books.

Alexis Phillips | Surfside Kids Pediatric Dentistry
Alexis Phillips, EFDA
Office Team Coordinator (Hinesville)

Born and raised in coastal Georgia, Alexis joined Surfside Kids in 2020. She has had a love of dentistry since childhood and holds an EFDA certification from Savannah Technical College. When the weather allows, Alexis can most often be found somewhere out on the water or soaking up the sun. On the weekends, she enjoys trying out new restaurants and spending quality time with her family and friends.

Fun Fact: Alexis loves traveling to new destinations, but Disney will always hold a special place in her heart.

Jennifer Herrera | Surfside Kids Pediatric Dentistry
Jennifer Herrera, RDH

Born in Beaufort SC, but raised in Georgia, I graduated from Savannah Technical College with an Associate of science degree in Dental Hygiene. I’m bilingual in Spanish and English. I love working with children because they are so full of life. During my free time I like traveling, baking and spending time with my family.

Fun fact: My favorite animal is a Great White Shark, and my dream is to go swimming with one!

Autumn Dang | Surfside Kids Pediatric Dentistry
Autumn Dang, RDH

Autumn was born in Fort Stewart and raised in Savannah, Georgia. Early in life, she knew she wanted to pursue a career that involved helping people. After some time away from school, she
decided to go into the dental field. Autumn received her Dental Hygiene Associates of Science degree at Savannah Technical College.

Fun Fact: Autumn knows how to ride a small 150cc motorcycle called a Grom, and is currently learning how to ride a 300cc bike called an R3.

Charissa Younce | Surfside Kids Pediatric Dentistry
Charissa Younce, RDH
Charissa was born and raised in neighboring McIntosh County. She is a direct descendant of the Gullah Geechee people of Sapelo Island, Georgia, and takes great pride in her culture. Charissa served 22 years in the U. S Air Force as a Dental Technician and retired in 2020. Although Charissa has spent the majority of her career helping adults achieve optimal dental wellness, she is finding that her real passion is in providing care to children. Charissa is excited to have a career that she loves and is grateful to be working with such an amazing team at Surfside Kids Pediatric Dentistry.

Fun Fact: Charissa enjoys crafting, and spending time with her family.

Windy Carroll | Surfside Kids Pediatric Dentistry
Windy Carroll, RDH
Windy was born and raised in south Georgia. In 1999, she graduated with an Associate of Science degree in Dental Hygiene from Armstrong Atlantic State University. Windy has worked in pediatric dentistry since 2007, and can attest to the joy of teaching these fun-loving, imaginative little ones how to care for their smile. Windy and her husband, Terry, spend most of their spare time with their four children and two granddaughters, Harper and Ruby.Windy loves bike riding and taking walks with her golden doodle, Honey. She also finds pleasure in taking on new projects and hobbies, including her most recent endeavor: making her own bread!

Fun Fact: Windy enjoys traveling all over world and spending time with her children and granddaughters!

Shalina Martin | Surfside Kids Pediatric Dentistry
Shalina Martin, EFDA
Born and raised on the beach in Emerald Isle, North Carolina, Shalina started with Surfside Kids as a Sterilization Tech and transitioned into a Dental Assistant. She recently received her EFDA (Expanded Functions Dental Assistant) certification through the Georgia Dental Association. As the former Assistant Director for 4-H Youth Development, working with kids has always been a passion.

Fun Fact: Shalina performed backup vocals and tambourine in a classic rock band.

Francene Rowland | Surfside Kids Pediatric Dentistry
Francene Rowland, EFDA
As a people person, with an innate desire to help all in need, Francene (also known as Fran, Franny, or Tita) is a strong addition to the Surfside Kids team having worked as a Patient Care Coordinator, Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA), and now Billing Coordinator. Francene and her fiancé have two amazing kiddos (Lana and Roni), who bring joy and smiles into their everyday life. Some of her favorite things to do is to read, watch Disney+, and spend time with family.

Fun Fact: Francene has a dog named Rice, a cat named Tama, and a Leopard Gecko named Cheech! One day, she wants to be able to save all animals (except cockroaches and mosquitoes) at her own animal sanctuary. She is terrified of flying cockroaches!

Chrissy Niver | Surfside Kids Pediatric Dentistry
Chrissy Niver, EFDA
Office Team Coordinator (Richmond Hill)

Chrissy was born and raised in Flint, Michigan. She married her high school sweetheart Ricky in 2011 and together they have two beautiful children, Evan and Emalyn. Chrissy began her career in early childhood education and also volunteers as a coach for youth sports. She loves being around children because they bring about so much light and laughter. Chrissy attended Savannah Dental Assistant School in the fall of 2022 and her externship at Surfside Kids confirmed the direction of her career path. In her spare time, Chrissy likes to travel and make memories with her family.

Fun Fact: Chrissy loves to collect crystals. She has a large collection, including gems, from all over the world.

Seth Dever | Surfside Kids Pediatric Dentistry
Seth Dever, EFDA

Sterilization Technician

Originally from Ohio, Seth moved down to Georgia in 2011. Shortly after moving, Seth gained an affinity for orthodontics after he got braces. Seth went on to Georgia Southern to obtain his Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry and graduated in 2022. He was also published in an academic journal for his contribution on research in green chemistry, specifically on substitutes for petroleum-based plastics. Seth heard about Surfside Kids from a friend of his girlfriend and jumped at the opportunity to immerse himself in the field. He is fond of working with children because he has the opportunity to make a visit to the dentist office an enjoyable one.

Fun fact: Seth is an avid fan of golfing.

Lovell Jones | Surfside Kids Pediatric Dentistry
Lovell Jones, EFDA

Lovell was born and raised in Brunswick Georgia, and graduated from Glynn Academy. Subsequently, she attended college-level classes. Lovell has worked in customer service and management for over fifteen years. By far, her proudest accomplishment is being a mother.

Fun Fact: Lovell wants to come back as a sea turtle in the next life!

Jasmine Barnes | Surfside Kids Pediatric Dentistry
Jasmine Barnes

Master Resilience Trainer | Patient Care Coordinator

Born in Raleigh, but raised in Selma, North Carolina, Jasmine completed her associates degree and became a Certified Medical Assistant. She began working as a Patient Care Coordinator at Surfside, and shortly thereafter, gained the new title as Master Resilience Trainer. Jasmine is currently taking a course in Positive Psychology and Resilience. One of her favorite parts about working with kids is hearing their stories, whether it is real or from their imagination. “Kids are a good reminder that it is okay to be goofy, laugh, and have fun!”

Fun fact: Jasmine loves to watch cartoons and is currently binge watching Amphibia on the Disney Channel.

Sue Abbott | Surfside Kids Pediatric Dentistry
Sue Abbott

Patient Care Coordinator
Born in Cheylan, West Virginia, Sue grew up in a military family, calling several East Coast Navy bases “home” until moving to Brunswick in 1963. She is one of five children, with two sisters and two brothers. She has two sons and six grandsons. No pink for this Nana! For the last decade, Sue has worked as an administrative assistant at the local hospital, and as a receptionist at several local medical offices. Sue loves the outdoors, especially the beach. She and her sisters take an annual trip every summer exploring new beaches. Growing up, Sue always thought she would pursue a career in teaching because of her love for children and innate desire to help people. Instead, she taught Sunday School to 7th and 8th graders for ten years!

Fun Fact: Sue has two cats, Milo and Simba, who bring her lots of joy and laughter!

Valerie Collins | Surfside Kids Pediatric Dentistry
Valerie Collins, BA, MA
Valerie was born and raised in Brunswick, Georgia. She has 3 children and 7 grandchildren. Over the last decade, Valerie has traveled to over ten states serving in full-time ministry helping the homeless. She is a descendant of Lula Oglesby, who was the first African American that had open heart surgery in Brunswick. Valerie has worked as a medical secretary for over 20 years; her favorite field being oncology. She loves working with children and seeing their beautiful faces light up with joy on their good days, and helping them to smile on their bad days. Valerie holds an associate’s degree in business administration, as well as a bachelor’s and master’s degree of art in Christian counseling. In addition, she also has a master’s degree in church administration.

Fun Fact: Valerie is and forever will be a sea lover at heart. Her favorite sports are fishing and crabbing!

Brionna Parrish | Surfside Kids Pediatric Dentistry
Brionna Parrish
Patient Care Coordinator

Raised in Tucson, AZ, Brionna studied holistic medicine while working for a naturopath, and later graduated summa cum laude from Grand Canyon University with a B.S. degree in addiction counseling. With an active-duty husband, Brionna and her family are hoping to stay at Fort Stewart until her children graduate from high school. In her free time, Brionna enjoys reading, playing video games, and continuing her studies. Brionna’s favorite thing about children is their imagination. “Listening to children talk about their hopes and dreams is the reminder I need that it’s okay to pursue your happiness, and nothing is impossible.”

Fun Fact: Brionna’s favorite hobby is baking and cooking. One day, she is hoping to open a food truck business, and give back to the community!

Ashton Jackson | Surfside Kids Pediatric Dentistry
Ashton Jackson, EFDA
Ashton was born and raised in Jesup, GA. She has a love for helping others achieve their best smiles. With her attention to detail and friendly demeanor, she strives to create a comfortable and positive experience for every patient at Surfside Kids. Outside of work, she enjoys spending quality time with her husband and family and loves playing with her goldendoodle, Sully Bear. Ashton also has a passion for competitive cheerleading. During her senior year of high school, her cheer team won regionals and was awarded GCCA team of the year.

Fun Fact: Ashton is left-handed.

Emily Fowler | Surfside Kids Pediatric Dentistry
Emily Fowler
Patient Care Coordinator / PDAA Coordinator

Emily was born at the United States naval hospital in Beaufort, South Carolina. She and her family later relocated to Anniston, Alabama where she was raised and went on to graduate with the Walter Wellborn High School class of 1985. Ten years later, Emily married the love of her life and together they raised three wonderful children. Emily’s favorite pastimes include making memories with her two grandsons, crafting, cruising to new destinations, and going fishing with her husband. Emily loves animals and is well-known within her community for her dedication to rehabilitating wildlife. Currently Emily has four dogs and five rehabbed squirrels that call her property home. With over 30 years of clerical and customer service experience, Emily is a great addition to the Surfside Kids team.

Fun Fact: Emily used to have a pet monkey named Evie!

Abigail Braddy | Surfside Kids Pediatric Dentistry
Abigail Braddy, EFDA
Abby grew up in Jesup, Georgia. From a young age, she had a knack for athleticism and excelled in both dance and competitive cheerleading. She graduated from Wayne County High School in 2022 and began her journey in the dental field with Surfside Kids in 2024. Abby loves working in pediatrics because she enjoys helping young children understand the importance of proper oral hygiene. Abby is always ready for her next adventure and likes to spend her free time riding in a side-by-side, camping, and boating with her friends and family on the river.

Fun Fact: Abby is looking forward to becoming the godmother to a precious baby girl named Wrenley.

Ronecia Dixon | Surfside Kids Pediatric Dentistry
Ronecia Dixon, EFDA
Ronecia was born in Savannah, Georgia and raised in McIntosh County. She graduated from McIntosh County Academy in 2015 and later went on to study dental assisting at Concorde Career College in Jacksonville, Florida. Upon her course completion, Ronecia received her expanded functions certification. Ronecia has been working in the dental field for four years and truly loves that no two days are ever the same. Her favorite thing about working in pediatric dentistry is getting to witness the children’s creativity and their fun imaginations. In her liesure time, Ronecia enjoys being with her family, taking the scenic route, and riding down dirt roads.

Fun Fact: Ronecia is the proud and loving mother of a beautiful daughter.

Jackie Spoonhour | Surfside Kids Pediatric Dentistry
Jackie Spoonhour, EFDA
With an interest in dentistry and a passion for working with children, Jackie was excited to join the Surfside Kids team as a dental assistant in 2024. Jackie loves utilizing the knowledge she has gained from motherhood in order to help kids feel comfortable and safe during their dental appointments. Jackie is a go-getter with a strong desire to excel and hopes to gain as much knowledge in her position as possible. In her free-time, she enjoys traveling with her family, sharpening her cross-stitch skills, and reading dystopian and science fiction novels.

Fun Fact: Jackie has an impressive mug and cup collection!

Harley Thornton | Surfside Kids Pediatric Dentistry
Harley Thornton, EFDA
Harley was born in Savannah, Georgia and later relocated with her family to the Jesup area as a teen and went on to graduate alongside Wayne County High School’s Class of 2023. Upon becoming an aunt, Harley quickly realized that she had a love for working with children. She began her journey in dentistry when she joined the Surfside Kids team in 2024. Harley excelled in her role as a Sterilization Tech and quickly went on to earn her certification as an Expanded Functions Dental Assistant. In Harley’s spare time, she loves driving her yellow Dodge Challenger, eating beef jerky, participating in various athletics (especially soccer!), and going shopping.

Fun Fact: Harley is currently enrolled at Savannah Technical College where she is studying to become a Registered Dental Hygienist.

Regan Neal | Surfside Kids Pediatric Dentistry
Regan Neal, EFDA
Regan was born and raised in southern Georgia. Upon her graduation from highschool, she relocated to Dothan, Alabama where she began her career in the dental field as a sterilization tech and quickly advanced to the role of dental assistant. Regan received her associate degree in general studies from Wallace Community College in 2022 and joined the SurfsideKids team in 2024. She loves working with children and is excited to help her patients gain confidence in their smiles. Regan is currently studying to earn her associate degree in dental hygiene at Savannah Technical College. Above all, she is a devoted wife and mother and values spending quality time with her husband, daughter, family, and friends.

Fun Fact: Regan loves traveling and hopes to one day experience the beauty of Barcelona, Spain.

Office 912-715-SURF (7873)
Fax 912-717-9595
Email info@surfsidekids.com

Patient Hours:
Mon–Fri: 7am–2pm

Office Hours:
Mon-Thur: 8am-5pm
Fri: 8am-3pm
Sat & Sun: Closed

Richmond Hill

135 Cedar Street
Richmond Hill, GA 31324

Hinesville

103 East General Stewart Way
Hinesville, GA 31313

Brunswick

4850 Altama Avenue
Brunswick, GA 31520

Veteran-Owned Business

2019 Davey Award Winner