Meet the Dental Hygienists
Meet the Dental Hygienists
JENNIFER ACKER, RDH, BSDH
Jennifer is a Virginia Beach native and a graduate of First Colonial High School, Class of 2000. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene from Old Dominion University in 2005.
Jennifer joined The Art of Dentistry family in July 2020, bringing with her 17 years of experience in the dental field. She is passionate about creating a caring and knowledgeable environment for every patient.
Outside of work, Jennifer enjoys spending time with her husband, James, and their two boys, Benjamin and Charley. She also loves reading and connecting with friends and family.
Meet the Dental Hygienists
ABBY RICKETTS RDH, BSDH
Abby was born and raised in Virginia Beach and graduated from Cox High School in 2010. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Dental Hygiene with honors from VCU School of Dentistry in 2015. After working in Richmond for several years, Abby is thrilled to be back in her hometown.
Meet the Dental Hygienists
KRISTY SIMPSON, RDH, BSDH
Kristy is one of our experienced dental hygienists, with over 15 years of experience keeping smiles sparkling. She graduated from Old Dominion University in 2002 with a Bachelor’s degree in Dental Hygiene. Kristy is dedicated to continuing her education each year through classes and seminars, including anesthesia training at Virginia Commonwealth University in 2010.
When she’s not helping her patients maintain their dental health, Kristy enjoys spending time with her family and friends. She is married to her husband, Shawn, and they have a beautiful daughter named Lily. Kristy loves traveling, cooking, practicing yoga, and spending time at the beach.
Meet the Dental Hygienists
LISSI GEORGE RDH, BSDH
Lissi earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Dental Hygiene from Old Dominion University, graduating Summa Cum Laude. She is passionate about building long-term relationships with her Hampton Roads patients and working together to improve their oral health.
The Art of Dentistry is proudly affiliated with Atlantic Dental Care, PLC
The Art of Dentistry is proudly affiliated with Atlantic Dental Care, PLC
OUR REVIEWS
Discover the excellence of cosmetic dentistry at The Art of Dentistry—acclaimed with over 900 five-star reviews. Our patients enjoy personalized care and stunning results, making every visit a truly exceptional experience. Join us and transform your smile today!
Brenda Wilson
16:41 09 May 25
Very satisfied with all aspects of my visit
krissy clarke
12:20 09 May 25
Such a great team! My dental hygienist Jennifer is the best!
Gracie Underwood
12:48 08 May 25
“Top Notch” as usual. I recommend them to everyone!
Gail Phillips
11:31 08 May 25
First visit and I was pleased with the staff. Hygentist Stephanie did a great cleaning and was pleasant.
Katie Weeks
11:34 24 Apr 25
Five stars is well deserved. Everyone friendly, caring and extremely efficient.
Rebecca Herron
14:27 16 Apr 25
Rick Anderson
13:44 08 Apr 25
Once again, the best Dentists and Dental Technicians and Admin Staff that I have ever encountered. They are professional, courteous, friendly and very knowledgable.Abby would be proud.
beverly jacobs
14:07 04 Apr 25
Julie B
11:24 04 Apr 25
Bekki Keener
15:07 02 Apr 25
Excellent service!Polite, professional and personable.Dr Dorfmann is the Best.Updated equipment makes procedures fast and painless.A+
Ann Lord
11:33 26 Mar 25
Jennifer always cleans my teeth and is gentle and does an excellent cleaning. The office is a happy and busy one. I have been going to The Art of Dentistry for over 20 years.
joseph simone
12:37 25 Mar 25
Organized, efficient, highly professional, coordination is smooth, high regard for patients, love the entire place. Been coming here since 2007
Mr. VOLUNTEER Paschang
13:26 21 Mar 25
After nine years of 24/7 pain and three different Dentists.Doctor Dorfman and his staff at the Art of Dentistry in Virginia Beach are my new Heroes.The Presidential Medal of Freedom would be my recommendations for this group of professionals!Gary
Adam Kaufman
11:24 18 Mar 25
I wouldn’t go anywhere else.
Jason Blanchette
11:24 14 Mar 25
Roderick Young
16:50 13 Mar 25
My regular hygienist was not available and I was seen by Sarah or (Sara) who subbed for Melissa. I must say Melissa is awesome and I lost nothing with Sarah. They both were very respectful understanding that I did not exercise the best dental hygiene in my youth. Dr. Dorfman is an outstanding dentist who takes his time in explaining each procedure. The entire office is very friendly and considerate.
Jeffrey Anderson
11:35 13 Mar 25
I really like this Dentist office. The staff are all friendly and professional. The rooms are very clean. The equipment is state of the art. I get a great cleaning and real checkup from the dentist. I always leave feeling like " Yea man, I got a good dentist!!" Lol. I highly recommend.
Mary Thuot
16:26 12 Mar 25
My Hygienist Abby is gentle and through. Always with a smile. Professional. The office staff friendly and welcoming. I am very relaxed when I am there. Took me on time for my appt.
Jessica
00:57 12 Mar 25
I’ve been a patient here my entire life, and I’m so grateful for the fabulous dental care The Art of Dentistry provides! Today, Dr. Shuck filled my first (and hopefully only) cavity. It was 100% painless and so quick! Everything turned out perfectly even though I started involuntarily swallowing for no reason except that I swallowed once and then panicked that I had messed everything up and then proceeded to apologize which also caused a bit of unhelpful intraprocedural movement. Dr. Shuck was faster than my unintentional attempts at disaster, and my tooth looks and feels perfect! I cannot even see the filling!Everybody here is awesome, and I’m so very thankful for this amazing team!
joey blow
11:25 11 Mar 25
CHARLES SCHNEIDER
14:35 04 Mar 25
Lesli Henry
16:17 28 Feb 25
Wonderful experience! New patient - office is friendly and efficient! Very happy with my decision to make this office my Dentist!
John Whitehurst jr
14:22 28 Feb 25
Very professional, courteous, and very knowledgeable
Tory Hegrenes
15:59 25 Feb 25
Always impressed with the customer service, cleanings and care. Highly recommended.
B A Spilatore
19:35 22 Feb 25
This Dental practice is phenomenal. Very caring staff and doctors.Extremely compassionate care.I can’t wait for my next visit for my cleaning and dental procedure.
Userqwerty1234 5
16:02 19 Feb 25
Cleaning that was quick and relatively painless. Super friendly staff.
James Grigsby
21:46 13 Feb 25
Abby always a great job cleaning my teeth
Roger Norman
11:45 07 Feb 25
I've been going here for years. They're the best,
Ray Noftsinger REALTOR
23:25 30 Jan 25
Excellent! been using this company for over 30 years.
GG
15:23 30 Jan 25
This is by far the best dental experience I have ever had. The hygenist was pleasant and thorough when I got my cleaning. Then I had to get two caps and two filling redone. I never had caps or any other extensive dental work. I have had two caps, done, and two fillings redone over the past month. The drilling was quick, the caps are perfect, and so are the fillings. Recovery is quick and painless as well. I never even felt the needle go in for numbing. During the break waiting for the cap to be made, I fell asleep in the dental chair, that is how relaxing this place is. For a dental visit, it was the best I have ever experienced. I recommend them 100%!!!
Noelle Litchfield
12:48 30 Jan 25
Jean Holcombe
15:31 22 Jan 25
John Bowles
13:32 22 Jan 25
Jennifer is always friendly and professional.she is a very thorough hygienist and I so appreciate her efforts. I have been going to The Art of Dentistry for over twenty-five years because I trust them and they are always responsive to my needs. Thank you. Kate Tippett
Alma Lynn
16:25 21 Jan 25
Going to the dentist is not one of my favorite things but The Art of Dentistry is always a pleasant place.
Amy Redford Art
11:28 09 Jan 25
Nicholas Franzitta
11:50 13 Dec 24
I’ve been coming here for years…Kristy is a great and personable hygienist and Dr. Dorfman is an excellent dentist when I have needed the occasional filling. I also did Invisalign through here and it was an easy experience and all my questions were answered.
SidneyR
03:55 13 Dec 24
David Doxey
15:04 11 Dec 24
Care provided is always the best. The entire team makes you feel important. The office is convenient to my neighborhood which is a plus.
Gail Thompson
13:44 11 Dec 24
John Wilderson
13:19 11 Dec 24
Yvonne Robinson
14:30 26 Nov 24
My experience is always good. It's been a pleasure being a patient at The Art of Dentistry for over thirty plus years.
Beth Gerstein
12:14 26 Nov 24
I am adding to my original review below… thank you Mel for always squeezing me in for dental emergencies and thank you Lissie for being an awesome hygienist! My daughter has been going to Abby for many years (see below). This is the only practice we trust!I would highly recommend Dr. Darren Dorfman and his awesome team of hygienists (thank you, Abby!) and support staff for their outstanding dental care and customer service!
Sasha French
23:00 21 Nov 24
This was the best experience I’ve ever had at a dentist office. The team is so warm and welcoming! I had problems with bleeding gums and just as they said, the bleeding stopped after I went to them and they took such great care of me during my cleaning. I also had a small gap in my bottom teeth that was bugging me and it went away two weeks later because my gums were so healthy from the cleaning. I am just so impressed! I have healthier gums,cleaner,whiter teeth and by far felt the most amazing I’ve ever felt leaving the dentist office! I highly recommend them 🥰
Nancy O'donnell
12:16 21 Nov 24
Always feel welcomed upon arrival, and comforted by Jennifer’s caring attention to detail— knowledge and guidance from either dentist.
Jana Hrnčířová
02:50 15 Nov 24
S “Coopes” Cooper
10:04 13 Nov 24
My recent visit was for an old crown that had fallen off. I wasn’t in any pain, so when I booked the appointment I told them I was ok with the next available which was in December, they offered to call if there were any cancellations. The next morning they called to offer an appointment that day at 2:00. I agreed and as always everything went perfectly from the phone calls to the reception, the procedure ( Dr. Dorfman and his assistant are thorough and want to insure you are comfortable) to the check out. I have been a patient of Dr. Dorfman’s since 2017 and have never had a bad experience. If you are looking for a new dentist, don’t hesitate to contact them, the practice is top notch all the way around.Thank you Art of Dentistry you all are awesome!!!
Lydia Cooper
19:46 11 Nov 24
The Art of Dentistry has been my family's go-to dental practice for over three years, consistently delivering exceptional care. Recently, my hygienist retired, and I was slightly apprehensive about the transition. However, Brittany seamlessly stepped in and exceeded my expectations! Her professionalism, gentle touch, and thoroughness made my latest appointment a breeze. She did a phenomenal job with my entire oral care, leaving my teeth feeling squeaky clean and my mouth feeling fresh. I'm actually looking forward to my next appointment! Awesome job, Brittany and The Art of Dentistry team!
Patti Flanagan
15:30 10 Nov 24
I’m new to the area and found the doctor’s and staff professional and friendly. I plan to have them as my new dental office.
David Walker
12:09 07 Nov 24
Great visit yesterday. Got in right on time and everything went smooth and was out in less than an hour. That place runs like a well oiled machine!
alexander joseph
15:45 05 Nov 24
Brittany and the staff was amazing I don't know if I spelled her name right but I've never had such a great experience getting my teeth cleaned. I was literally falling asleep that's how's comfortable and relaxed I felt the whole experience was a 10/10
Troy Carpenter
10:56 01 Nov 24
Always a great experience at The Art of Dentistry.
Josh Fisher
13:41 30 Oct 24
Always a great experience! Dr. Dorfman, Abby and all staff provide “top notch “ service and expertise!!!
John Clark
13:02 24 Oct 24
Patrick Haggerty
09:30 23 Oct 24
The professionalism of the team is outstanding. They are accessible when you have an issue like pain and always seem to go above and beyond to find and fix the problem. Dr. Shuck and his Dental assistant Katherine are great, so glad my son Matthew referred me to them when we moved back to VB two years ago.
Dolores Slick-Jackson
17:34 22 Oct 24
Dr. Ryan Shuck made quite “the splash” ( Aquaman’s twin)! Dr. Shuck is a great addition to The Art of Denistry! Compassionate, Competent & Comedic, The 3 “Cs” that are worthy of “Aquaman”:) But seriously, an A+/ 5 star for him & the entire Artistry Family! You will leave there with a bigger more beautiful smile:). Thank y’all!Welcome aboard, Brittany! Your soft touch with a thorough cleaning is such a gift🎁 No fear in your chair! Appreciate your skills🦷🪥
Greg Hann
09:46 22 Oct 24
Thorough and incredibly nice
Virginia Miller
11:07 18 Oct 24
They were a little busy. They were a little behind. But once I was called back it was a breeze. They even gave me a Dunkin donuts gift card for my wait. Which they didn't have to, I really appreciated it! Great dentist, gentle and quick. I highly recommend this dentist.
Diana McWilliams
12:11 16 Oct 24
Perfect experience! Stephanie did an amazing job!
Robert Frank
13:57 10 Oct 24
Love this practice! My hygienist Jennifer is awesome!
Margaret Allen
02:43 06 Oct 24
My experience at The Art of Dentistry was fantastic! Dr. Shuck and his assistant Annie were so helpful, compassionate, and kind! I am usually a bit antsy about going to the dentist, but they made me feel comfortable and welcomed. I feel so fortunate to have found this dentistry and would highly recommend!
Mike Lindale
01:12 20 Sep 24
Carol Long
11:53 11 Sep 24
I have been coming to Art of Dentistry for nearly 15 years. Always had the best of care and attention from doctors and staff. I highly recommend them just like they were recommended to me all those years ago.
Susan Bohache
13:53 06 Sep 24
My hubby and I both have been patients with The Art of Dentistry for over 20 years. We travel @ 45 minutes each way to come here because we appreciate the care and professionalism of our hygenist, Abby, and each dentist who has cared for us.
Lynda McFadden
21:57 05 Sep 24
What a great team. The dentists, hygienist and staff are so friendly and do an amazing job.
Sy Nguyen
16:40 05 Sep 24
George Fay
13:51 05 Sep 24
Great staff. Always friendly and helpful.
LeAnne Brant
21:14 04 Sep 24
Amy Bell
10:24 28 Aug 24
Recently visited The Art of Dentistry for a refresh of an old filling and Dr. Dorfman was great. I hate all things related to dental visits, but Dr. D and Chris made me feel right at ease. The procedure was quick and painless. And my teeth look fabulous! This practice has been serving me well for over 15 years. Everyone from the front desk personnel to the billing department is top notch!
H N
19:50 27 Aug 24
Paul Watson
11:40 13 Aug 24
Always a great visit at The Art of Dentistry. Friendly and highly skilled team will take good care of you.
Thomas Snyder
10:50 08 Aug 24
I am a long time patient. Dr. Ryan Shuck did an excellent job installing a crown, which was pain free, and the fit is perfect. They employ the latest technology, and even fabricate and install the crown on the same day of the procedure. Drs. Dorfman and Shuck are doing a good job of carrying on Dr. Horowitz’s legacy of quality and pain free dentistry !
Sebrena Pace
17:59 07 Aug 24
I have been going to The Art of Dentistry for a few years now and let me tell you, in my 42 years on this earth, I have never had a better dental care team. For every appointment, whether it's a cleaning, root canal, filing, or just a consult, they have made me feel welcome and comfortable. And for each procedure I have never had any issues. They are awesome!
Hannah Rosello
11:20 25 Jul 24
This is going to be LONG!My PCP found that I had an infection due to a toothache that was going on for about a month, so I was scheduled in for an ASAP dental appointment. I was devastated knowing that my little tiny tooth in the front that was causing me so much pain was cracked in 2 places causing me to have an infection in my gums. Let me tell you when Dr. Dorfman and his Assistant Chloe gave this 41 year old momma the news that my tooth couldn't be saved, they saw me cry like a big ol' baby. It was a hard pill to swallow. I was scared and I was a wreck but they took care of me emotionally! Even his coordinator Lee, was so kind to allow me to vent on over the phone, she was so patient with me and took the time to explain things to me so I wouldn't be so scared. It put me in a better spot mentally.Fast forward, I just got my tooth pulled on July 23rd, surgery went smoothly and I actually didn't cry at all. There was a mishap with my flipper/partial and yes I was frustrated but they went above and beyond to make sure I would have my smile again until I get my partial & implant done! Chris, was amazing helping put my temp retainer in, to adjusting it and she also made sure to fix my night guard properly bc I still grind at night like crazy. 🤦🏽♀️Another thing, all of the front desk staff are so kind and welcoming, but my girl Lee is the BEST idk but God surely made her such a patient person. She made me feel at ease Everytime we spoke! And sweet Chloe, girlfriend although I wasn't on the beach that day, you made me feel so comfortable! Dr Dorfman, YOU ARE THE MAN!!! When I tell I told him I put my trust in him, I literally put my whole trust in him and he rocked! He took great care of me from the beginning. He tried to be as gentle as possible, there was a lot of infection in there, and he explained post-op care in laymen's terms for me to understand. He answered every question I had and he made sure to rush my temp retainer so I would have my smile back! We even joked around because that's my only coping mechanism. I said Lord Jesus here he comes! And he said "Lord Jesus"! 🤣🤣🤣 It was hilarious and made me feel comfortable!Finally, it's going to be a long journey since I'm getting a tooth implant but I am so glad my journey is with this crew!!! They are amazing!!!Here's my before and after! They did an amazing job on my temporary retainer bc NO ONE noticed that my tooth is actually gone!I felt extremely confident and happy. I can't wait to get my tooth Implant, because I know they will do an amazing job!!!
James Byrum
13:23 23 Jul 24
This is the best dentistry ever! Every time I walk up in this place, it is quiet and calm, and it feels like the lil guys in my mouth are in heaven! I've never gone to any other dentist, and I never will.No one can outdo the fantastic staff or the amazing service provided to your teeth. If you're looking to give your teeth a great home, come here.
Edward Wommack
13:40 18 Jul 24
Everyone is just so nice and friendly.
Barbara Edmonds
10:37 17 Jul 24
Jennifer always do an excellent job on my daughter and I teeth. She’s always so kind and professional.
Thomas Balka
13:35 11 Jul 24
I'm really glad to have found my Dentist's office. They are always kind and understanding, as well as professional. Thanks for their Art.
Cindi Courter
18:20 10 Jul 24
We have been going to The Art of Dentistry for 40 years. This includes myself, husband, son and father. Dr. Abbey Horowitz took care of us until he retired. The practice has been cultivated into a wonderful caring team from the office staff to the hygienists with Dr. Darren Dorfman and Dr. Ryan Shuck at the helm. I am so thrilled to now have straight teeth from a 3-1/2 year Invisalign plan! This shows the perseverance and compassion of this practice in giving their patients the best possible care and outcomes. My husband's plan, though, only took a year! Yesterday, my Steve and I just had our cleanings with Nancy and Abbey, both excellent hygienists, very caring and professional. We continue to look forward to seeing Dr. Dorfman and the rest of the team for all our dental needs!
john olliges
15:02 09 Jul 24
On time thorough expeditious
Jamie Hurt
17:38 02 Jul 24
I have never had a fear of going to the dentist, however the last office I visited really did a number on me both physically and mentally. In search of another new office, I came across The Art of Dentistry, and there is no looking back. The front office staff was warm and welcoming and made the check in process a breeze. All of the hygienists and techs I have had the pleasure of working with so far have been so wonderful; they are just as knowledgable as the dentists, they are welcoming, patient, understanding, flexible, and so much more. I also had the pleasure of working with Dr. Shuck for an intake exam, cleaning, filling and crown. He ensured my comfort the entire time and continued to remind me that during my appointment, I was in control of when to take breaks and such. He regularly checked in, added a dash of humor throughout the appointment, and really assisted overall in overcoming any nerves that came up. I am so blessed to now be a patient of Dr. Shuck and his team and look forward to the future of my dental health!
Bobbie Bullock-Smith
17:14 30 Jun 24
Friendly staff. Sarah is awesome. Thank you. Lisa is great at what she does, too.Dr. Horwitz is knowledgeable and makes me laugh. I appreciate his devotion throughout the many years I have come to him. Bobbie Bullock-Smith
Beaujets
02:08 15 Jun 24
On time and on point. Friendly staff with the intention of providing the best service possible. They took the time to provide the care needed to help with a sensitive tooth, cleaning, and exam.
Susanne Fay
13:26 14 Jun 24
Charles Larsen
15:18 05 Jun 24
A great experience at The Art of Dentistry. Dr. Dorfman and Abby were very thorough, professional, and friendly. Highly recommend.
Beverly Garvin
11:23 31 May 24
sydney mason
03:16 24 May 24
I have loved every experience I have had at The Art of Dentistry! Dr. Shuck did an amazing exam and found the issue right away. Abby and Jennifer the hygienists are also very thorough and attentive. Dr. Dorfman is such a delight to be around and you can tell that he really cares for his practice and all the people in it. Can’t express how great this place is! They feel like family and I can’t wait to go back 🙂
Joe
13:46 23 May 24
rainer
13:58 18 May 24
Professor Law
14:25 16 May 24
I have been a patient of this dental office for over 20 years. They are the absolute best! Dr. Horwitz is very professional, yet personable and makes each visit fun. Melissa (Lissy) has been my dental hygienist for years. She's awesome as well. I highly recommend this dental practice! Ramona5/14/24 Visit - I still highly recommend this dental practice, but I have two suggestions. Please remove the notice requesting that patients not inquire or comment about about the death of Dr. Horwitz. It made me sad to be reminded of his death when I arrived for my appointment on Tuesday. If someone inquires or comments, perhaps that person could be told that inquiries or comments make the staff sad or uncomfortable, rather than signs being posted to that effect. My second suggestion is that patients not be referred to by their first names, unless they have requested it. I did not like the dentist doing so. You're still the best!
Phillip Davenport
12:02 14 May 24
Always a great experience at Art of Dentistry. The staff is very caring and professional. The overall experience makes you look forward to your next visit.
Jay Cope
20:57 10 May 24
Sharron Haring
18:36 08 May 24
Lynn Lee
12:33 01 May 24
Kennedy enjoyed her visit with Sara and overcame her fear of dentists. She was given a in depth explanation for each procedure and is looking forward to returning
t zanaque
01:38 30 Apr 24
It's my first time with The Art of Dentistry and I am so glad that I have chosen them. From the front desk staff to the check out staff, they are all friendly. Ms. Jennifer is very sweet and caring, always checks if I am okay. And Dr. Shuck is so cool. Will recommend this clinic to.my friends and colleagues.Thank you!
