Enhanced Smiles of Gastonia
At Enhanced Smiles of Gastonia, we’re committed to providing you the highest quality dental care. Whether you're here for a routine check-up, cosmetic treatment, orthodontics, or dental implants, our experienced team uses the latest technology in a comfortable, welcoming environment. We not only offer outstanding dentistry, but also provide advice on how to maintain your oral health and a long-lasting beautiful smile. New patients are always welcome — let us help you smile with confidence!
414 South York Street
Lower Level
Gastonia, NC 28052
Call us today:
704-865-6856
Hours of Operation
Monday - Thursday 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
Meet the doctors
Meet Dr. Alex H.D. Pham, D.D.S
“Dr. Alex Pham graduated from the University Of North Carolina Chapel Hill School Of Dentistry in 2002. A firm believer in continuing education after dental school, Dr. Pham finished his two-year residency in General Practice Residency at UNC Chapel Hill. This training helps him focus on providing dental care to pediatric, geriatric and medically compromised patients.
Dr. Pham has also completed extensive training in dental implants and orthodontics. He is certified in adults and children Tip-Edge braces, PowerProx six-month braces, and Invisalign®. With these time-tested orthodontic techniques, he has helped many patients regain a confident and beautiful smile!
A Vietnamese native, Dr. Pham has been proud to call Gastonia home since moving here in 2004 and has been practicing dentistry in Gastonia since. He has a wonderful wife, Dr. Cam H. Duong, and three beautiful children. Along with spending time with his family, Dr. Pham enjoys outdoor activities such as fishing, golf, and basketball.”
Meet Dr. Valerie Waddell, D.D.S.
Dr. Waddell is a dual graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Dentistry. She received her undergraduate degree in Dental Hygiene and practiced as a Dental Hygienist for three years. She returned to dental school and received a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. After dental school, she completed a General Practice Residency at the Department of Veterans Affairs in Hampton, Virginia. Dr. Waddell has served as an Adjunct Professor at the UNC-Chapel Hill School of Dentistry, on the Board of Directors of Holy Angels, Piedmont Community Charter School, the Aids Council of Gaston County and the Multi-Advisory Council for Gaston Community Action. Dr. Waddell often volunteers in many local and civic efforts including the Mission of Mercy Dental Clinics and has been told that “Dentistry is your Ministry,”
In 1995, Dr. Waddell became the first Public Health Dental Director in Gaston County. She opened her solo dental practice in 2009. She is a member of the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry,
the North Carolina Dental Society and the Old North State Dental Society. She is a Past President of the Old North State Dental Society. Dr. Waddell completed a Fellowship with the Misch Implant Institute and is a past member of the Spear Study Club.
Dr. Waddell is a member of St. Stephens A.M.E. Zion Church, the Gastonia Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., The Links, Inc.-Piedmont Chapter and a charter member of the Gastonia-Piedmont Chapter of
Jack & Jill of America. She is married to Attorney Beady Waddell, III. They have three children and three grandchildren. Dr. Waddell enjoys interior designing, sports, music, and quality family time.
Meet the Team
Tina
Registered Dental Hygienist
Tina is a dedicated dental hygiene professional based in Gastonia, North Carolina. Known for her gentle approach and attention to detail, she has spent her career helping patients maintain healthy, confident smiles. Tina’s passion for oral health is matched by her commitment to building lasting relationships with the people she serves, making each visit as comfortable and positive as possible. A proud member of the Gastonia community, Tina values the close-knit connections she shares with friends, family, and neighbors. Outside of work, she enjoys giving back through local events and spending time with her loved ones. Her combination of professional skill, genuine care, and community spirit has earned her the trust and respect of both colleagues and patients alike.
Katherine
Registered Dental Hygienist
Katherine is one of our hygienists with an Associate of Science in Dental Hygiene from Central Piedmont Community College and a Bachelor of Arts in French from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She prides herself in thoroughly educating her patients about the importance of oral hygiene and goes the extra step to ensure her patients are always comfortable and feel heard while they’re in her chair. Katherine and her husband have five children and her favorite things to do are tent-camping in the mountains of NC, going on family vacations to the beach, and reading a good book.
Yohanna
Dental Assistant
Yohanna is an extremely talented dental assistant and a first-generation Mexican with a great passion for dentistry. She graduated from Forestview High School and obtained her Dental Assisting Certification from Charlote Dental Assisting School in South Charlotte. Some of her hobbies include watching movies, painting, and taking her new puppy out (please ask her about him)! Yohanna is bilingual and has plans to continue her journey in dentistry by becoming a registered dental hygienist one day.
Karen M
Dental Assistant
Karen is a skilled and compassionate dental assistant at our practice. Originally born in Los Angeles, California, she was raised in Gastonia where her love of helping others began at an early age. As the middle of three, Karen grew up enjoying outdoor adventures and building strong family connections that shaped her warm and caring nature. Her passion for healthcare sparked during childhood while playing nurse with her siblings, eventually inspiring her to pursue a career in dentistry. She received her training and certification as a dental assistant from Royal Dental Academy and since then, has embraced her role with dedication, heling patients feel at ease and welcomed during their visits. Known for her upbeat personality and attention to detail, Karen enjoys connecting with patients and making a positive impact on their oral health journey. She hopes to further her career by becoming a dental hygienist and continues to grow in her profession ever day. Outside of the office, Karen is a beach lover who enjoys music, coffee, and quality time with loved ones. She looks forward to meeting every new patient that steps through our door and making their experience at Enhanced Smiles a comfortable and pleasant one.
Luz
Dental Assistant
Luz is a skilled dental assistant with two years of hands-on experience in providing high-quality patient care and chairside support. She is passionate about helping patients feel comfortable during their visits and takes pride in contributing to a smooth and welcoming clinical environment. Outside of work, she devotes most of her time to raising her young son, who she loves and adores. In her free moments, she enjoys watching movies and reality shows and taking peaceful trips to the beach or mountains.
Don
Operations Manager
Don is a native of Lansing, Michigan. He moved to North Carolina six years ago with his wife Jennifer, his son Nolan, and their three spoiled dogs, and they all love it here. Don graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management and Marketing from Cleary College in Michigan. He has worked in banking, malpractice insurance, and has spent the last 25 years in the dental industry. He often tells people that he works for a company that makes the world a better place to live in one smile at a time! He loves our team here at Enhanced Smiles and enjoys having conversations with our patients and staff. In his spare time, Don enjoys spending time with his family and their three dogs, golfing, the outdoors, and traveling with his wife to different places.
Karen O
Office Coordinator
Karen is from Lincolnton, North Carolina and is our office/patient coordinator; she has been with us since March 2021 and her favorite aspect of working for our practice is interacting with our patients ensuring they always undergo a positive experience at each visit; she's guaranteed to always greet everyone with a welcoming smile. Karen is also bilingual which makes her the main point of contact for the majority of our Spanish-speaking patients. She obtained her dental radiography certification from NC Dental U in Charlotte and is also CPR certified. Things she enjoys include the beach, trying new food, traveling, and music.
Kimberly
Patient Coordinator
Kimberly joined Enhanced Smiles in January 2021 as one of our patient coordinators. She is dedicated to helping patients with every step of their dental visits; additionally, she provides assistance with insurance matters ensuring everything runs smoothly. She’s lived in Gastonia all her life; she has an Associate’s Degree in Medical Office Administration and she’s conversant in Spanish. After many years in the medical industry, she decided to make a professional change. She’s proud to say she loves working with an amazing group of people because we treat each other like a family. Outside of work, she’s an active member of her church; God is very important to her. She loves traveling and enjoys coaching her son's soccer team. She has four amazing children and loves spending time with family; she values every moment and cherishes every memory.
Jason
Insurance Coordinator
Johnson, a Gastonia native, is very knowledgeable with insurance with his 10+ years of experience. He is the one to go to when we have questions related to dental insurance or need help with our computers and equipment.
