Dr. Marcia S. Zax

Education:
Marcia Sydney Zax graduated with honors from New York University College of Dentistry in 1985. She continued her training as a resident at Strong Memorial Hospital-University of Rochester Medical Center (1985-86). In addition to her clinical training, Dr. Zax has worked in various areas of dental research, including epidemiology of dental caries (83-85 laboratory of Dr. Racquel LeGeros New York University College of Dentistry), factors influencing root caries (85-86 Eastman Dental Center, laboratory of Dr. John Featherstone), and finally obtained her PhD at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Her PhD thesis is entitled, “Fluoride, Magnesium and Carbonate and Crystallographic Studies of Developing Human Fetal Enamel”. Dr. Zax also obtained an NIH grant for post-doctoral studies in bone research and development which she carried out in the anatomy department at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, in the laboratory Professor Cornelia Farnum (91-92). Dr. Zax achieved Advanced Proficiency in the use if Nd:YAG and Er:YAG lasers from the Academy of Laser Dentistry in 2002. Dr. Zax has been practicing dentistry full time in Ithaca since 1993.

Personal Background:
Dr. Zax is married to Dr. David Zax, a professor of Chemistry and Chemical Biology at Cornell University. They have three children and have resided in Ithaca since 1990.

Professional Memberships and Organizations:
American Dental Association
New York State Dental Society
Sixth District Dental Society
Tompkins County Dental Society (past president)
Business Networking International

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Hygienists and Assistants

Deborah K. Lewis, Registered Dental Hygienist

Deborah Lewis received her dental hygiene training at Broome Community College and has been a member of our team since 2003.  She is a long-time resident of Newark Valley and is married to Steve. They have 3 children and lots of cats.

In addition to cleaning teeth and treating gum disease, Deborah reviews health histories, performs soft tissue examinations and oral cancer screenings, takes x-rays, gives fluoride treatments, applies sealants, makes recommendations regarding home care and helps the doctor during the dental examination.

Kim McLachlan, Certified Dental Assistant

Kim is a Lansing native, married to Mel, and has two dogs, Kodiak and Yukon.
Kim has worked in the field of dentistry for over 20 years.  Kim’s passion is making sure that our patients are comfortable during their treatment. While the doctor is concentrating first on the dental treatment, Kim is surveying the scene for any sign or body language that the patient might need additional anesthesia, a cozy blanket to keep warm, or a neck pillow. 

Kim is also knowledgeable about all manner of dental treatment and can answer many questions that our patients may have. Kim is also cross trained in reception duties.

Nicola Donohoe, Office Manager and Treatment Coordinator

Nicola was born in England but moved to Elmira with her family as a teenager. Nicola has one son, Kyle.

Nicola has worked in the field of dentistry for over 15 years. While she is also cross-trained in dental assisting, Nicola’s primary work involves insuring that the office runs smoothly, from scheduling patient appointments and recare visits, to assisting patients in filing for dental insurance and FLEX reimbursement for their dental care.  Nicola may also assist our patients in applying for healthcare credit through CapitalOne, Care Credit and Healthcare Credit. 

Nicola is also our fix-it person. As she says, she’ll never tell me where the tool kit is – that’s her job security!

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