Meet The Team
Elysa
Financial/Insurance Coordinator
Aloha, my name is Elysa, and I'm the Practice Executive here at Smile Hawaii. I have over 15 years of experience in the dental field, and have been with Dr Ogata since 2017. I'm passionate about helping people feel better and more confident through quality dental care. Over the years, I've loved being part of a profession that truly makes a difference in people's lives. Outside of work, I enjoy traveling(when I can!) - especially to cooler, rainy places - spending time with my dogs, and experimenting in the kitchen with new recipes.
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 sons and a daughter. I love that I get to help the Maui community stay healthy and keep smiles shining bright!
Kim
Dental Assistant
Aloha, my name is Kim, and I was born in the Philippines and moved to Maui when I was just a year old. I started dental assisting with Smile Hawaii in May 2022, grew fond of the dental field and wanted to learn more. I am currently a student at UH Maui College, pursuing a Major in Dental Hygiene. Outside of work, I enjoy traveling and discovering delicious places to eat. My favorite places to visit are Japan and New York.
Jaedan
Dental Assistant
Aloha, my name is Jaedan. 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!