Meet the Staff

We recognize that all of our patients are unique and deserve to receive orthodontic care that reflects their individual needs. Our experienced and talented team is committed to working with you and your family to create a comfortable, stress-free, and rewarding orthodontic experience every time you visit our practice.

We are pleased to welcome you and your family, and we look forward to working with you.

Dr. Thornton is your experienced Eugene and Creswell, OR orthodontist . Call our office today to schedule your first appointment!

Wendy

Office Manager

My job is to keep the practice running smoothly and efficiently.  I work to ensure that our team can focus on delivering personal care to each wonderful patient.  I also have the opportunity to oversee the handling of all financial arrangements and insurance billings, to make sure that each family is comfortable with their payment arrangements throughout the course of treatment.  I love coming to work every day knowing that I have the opportunity to make a difference in someone's life and work within a genuinely kind and thoughtful team.

My husband of 32 years and I relocated to the Eugene/Springfield area in 2021 entering a new season for us as empty-nesters.  Our daughter lives in Fairbanks, Alaska and our son is in Southern California.  We love being in Oregon and part of this community because of the special blend of diversity and small town friendliness.  My favorite activity is curling up with a good book, and my husband is an avid fisherman.  Together, we enjoy the outdoors and getting away in our truck camper on the weekends.

Emily

Treatment Coordinator

As the Treatment Coordinator, I have the privilege of assisting new patients at our office. I get to walk with them through the initial exam process as Dr. Thornton evaluates their orthodontic needs and creates a treatment plan that is unique to them. I enjoy explaining why orthodontic treatment is important to our oral health and showing each patient the tools Dr. Thornton will be using to help them on their journey to a happy, healthy smile!

Not new to orthodontics with 12 years of experience, but new to the Eugene area, I’m looking forward to exploring this part of Oregon. I’m lucky enough to live close to my 3 grown children, and my greatest joy is spending time with them. I love to read and am always eager to learn new things. I have two cats that I spoil and adore, and like many Oregonians I love to camp, hike, and ride bikes. Oh, and, Go Ducks!

Debbi

Expanded Function Orthodontic Assistant

Having worked for many years in this specialty, I can say with great confidence that being an orthodontic assistant is the most rewarding career I have had. Working under the leadership of Dr. Thornton has been a privilege, and I am really happy to be a small part of the great team here. I have been continually challenged to educate myself on new techniques and technology to help provide excellent treatment to each patient. In addition, making personal connections and seeing each patient’s smile progress to Dr. Thornton’s high standard is a very exciting aspect of my career.

I have been married for more than 40 years and am well versed in the world of being a grandparent to 8 and counting!  I’m loving this exciting role! I also love to do home improvement projects and yard work. It is a part of my personality to see the transformation that takes place by just changing things a little here and there.

Stephanie

Orthodontic Assistant

I have been in orthodontics for 28+ years and still love it!  Is there a better job than creating beautiful smiles for a lifetime?!? I am happy to be at an office that is so personable and has a family-like atmosphere. 

I was born and raised in the Eugene area and have a daughter, Mallory, and a step-daughter, Sophie.  My husband, Randy and I enjoy riding ATVs on the coast, spending time with family and friends, and taking road trips. 

 

Cameron

Orthodontic Assistant

After working as a CNA for a few years, I was ready for a change and decided to make the switch to the dental field; and I'm so glad I did!  Working with Dr. Thornton and the rest of the team here has been the best part of my career.  I can honestly say I've never worked with a more caring, professional, and knowledgable team.  Each day at work is an opportunity to help someone obtain their perfect smile, and it's been very rewarding so far.

I was born and raised in Virginia and first came to Oregon in 2021.  I met my wife Reena on that first visit, and we got married in April 2023 back in Virginia.  Since moving here, my love of nature has grown exponentially.  When I'm not working, I love being outdoors; whether that means hiking, running, or just walking around getting to know Eugene.  I'm looking forward to enjoying all that Oregon has to offer in the coming years!

 

Heather

Scheduling Coordinator & Guest Liaison

I am the smiling face that first greets you when you walk into Dr. Thornton's practice!  I am responsible for scheduling appointments and making sure everyone is being taken care of in a timely manner so that our day, and yours, can run smoothly.  I love the challenges that each day brings through balancing phone calls, professional correspondence, and connecting our administrative and clinical teams for full-circle patient care.

I am a Colorado native and an avid animal lover!  My family and I moved to the beautiful Eugene area in 2020, and we love it here!  I have one daughter and a husband.  During my free time, I enjoy trying out new recipes, hiking with my dogs, and spending time with my family.

 

Danielle

Financial Coordinator

As the Contracts and Insurance Coordinator, I set up your financial contract and bill your insurance claims.  I enjoy working with our patient families to set up their financial arrangements, working with insurance companies, and assisting the rest of the Thornton Team.  My goal is to make the financial process as easy as possible for our patient and parents.

A native Oregonian, I enjoy camping, spending time outdoors, remodeling my home, and rooting for my beloved Beavers!  I also enjoy every moment that I can spend with my family.  I live on 7 acres in "wine country" with my husband, a German Shepherd named Deacon, and a dozen chickens.  I have been in the dental field for more than 12 years and am passionate about caring for the needs of our patients.  It makes my day to know that I have helped make someone's smile brighter!

Taryn

New Patient Coordinator/Orthodontic Assistant

I am fortunate to work alongside Dr. Thornton and our great team where I get to play two roles as chairside assistant and new patient coordinator. In my roles, I have the privilege of connecting with our patients and ensuring they feel supported throughout their treatment journey. I enjoy witnessing patients' smiles transform and confidence grow. 

Out of the office you can find me spending time with my daughter, mountain biking, or trying new recipes. I also love candle making and creating new candle scents.