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.
Afterward, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene from Old Dominion University in 2005. In July 2020, Jennifer joined The Art of Dentistry family, bringing 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. Additionally, she loves reading and connecting with friends and family.
ABBY RICKETTS RDH, BSDH
Abby was born and raised in Virginia Beach and graduated from Cox High School in 2010. Subsequently, 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 and serve the community she loves.
KRISTY SIMPSON, RDH, BSDH
Kristy is one of our experienced dental hygienists, with over 15 years of keeping smiles sparkling.She graduated from Old Dominion University in 2002 with a Bachelor’s degree in Dental Hygiene. Furthermore, Kristy continues 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 daughter named Lily. In her free time, Kristy loves traveling, cooking, practicing yoga, and spending time at the beach.
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. Furthermore, our patients enjoy personalized care and stunning results, thereby making every visit a truly exceptional experience.
So, join us today and transform your smile with confidence!
Shandarae A
17:17 19 Oct 25
I must admit that I look forward to my dental visits. The look and feel of my teeth after a cleaning is a simple pleasure. Dr. Shuck and Kristy are both exceptionally knowledgeable, and I always learn something new during our sessions. Their kindness makes my dental experiences truly enjoyable.
B A Spilatore
10:46 02 Oct 25
This Dental practice is phenomenal. Very caring staff and doctors.Extremely compassionate care.I can’t wait for my next visit for my dental procedure.
Nina Nameless
17:50 18 Sep 25
Normally, a trip to the dentist feels like the beginning of a horror movie: cold lights, buzzing drills, and childhood flashbacks. But this clinic completely changed my mind. From the front desk to the doctors and assistants — everyone is so friendly that you almost want to stop by just for a coffee and a chat.Dr. Shuck is a whole story on his own. Smiling, patient, and with a fantastic sense of humor. At the same time, he’s a true professional: he works thoroughly, quickly, and with such care that even my inner “I’m terrified of dentists” voice said, “Okay, let’s give this a try.”Hygienist Lissi is out of this world. I’ve been getting cleanings for years, in different cities and even countries, but the cleaning she gave me was hands down the best I’ve ever had. So gentle, comfortable, and effective — I actually walked out feeling like my teeth were shining brighter than the lamp in the treatment room.Bottom line: the clinic is amazing, the staff is golden, and the experience was nothing but positive. If there were a rating for “dentistry without fear and pain,” I’d give them 100 out of 10. Highly recommend — even to those who fear dentists more than horror movies.
Karina Kremen
16:23 18 Sep 25
Do you hate the shot at the dentist? Same. I used to dread it… until I met Dr. Shuck! Somehow he makes it completely painless (I was poked three times today and didn’t feel a single pinch). He’s fast, friendly, cracks jokes to make the time fly, and his work is flawless every time. I leave every appointment feeling well cared for and at ease. Thank you, Dr. Shuck!!
Shannon Trewartha
18:27 10 Sep 25
As new patients, my daughter and I were treated well from start to finish! I did not feel like a stranger. All staff were friendly, thorough, and knowledgeable. Not only were they kind to us, but also to one another. We were seen on time for our appointments. The technology was current. The physical space was clean and inviting. The dentist and hygienist provided us with what we needed to make informed decisions regarding future care.UPDATE: I had to have an old root canal removed today. Yet again, everyone was wonderful. The attentiveness, patience. skill, and compassion demonstrated by everyone involved was deeply appreciated.
Maksim Berest
21:12 19 Aug 25
Just great!
John Imbriale
12:59 09 Aug 25
I cannot say enough about the care, talent and reassurances granted me by Dr. Dorfman and his team. They are truly a skilled group of professionals with chairside manners beyond question or doubt. They really are concerned about my health and wellbeing. I like that...I like that a lot!
Kellie Z
15:05 29 Jul 25
Wow, cant believe I gave them 5 stars. It should have been -1
Howard
16:31 01 Jul 25
Terrific hygiene appointmentNever disappoints
Kelly Chin
11:31 27 Jun 25
Kim Hilbert
20:13 26 Jun 25
I have always had a good experience at this office. Jennifer is a great dental hygienist.The staff is always friendly and they always explain charges and what insurance will not cover. I always feel that the staff and the dentist and hygienist always are looking out for my best dental care.This is a great practice and I would highly recommend them.
John Stubbs
11:32 26 Jun 25
I have seen several of the hygienists and they are all very good and thorough. I've seen both Dr. Shuck and Dr. Dorman, and have been very pleased with my dental care. Both docs have great personalities and are very personable. They also listen to the patient which I have found to be in short supply in the dental field. Really a great office to receive your dental care.
정기석
09:09 26 Jun 25
I first came to this clinic through a relative's recommendation and I am very satisfied. The doctor's meticulous attention to patient care is the best. The dental hygienists are also the best.
Charles Larsen
17:04 25 Jun 25
A pleasant experience at The Art of Dentistry. Dr. Dorfman and Staff were very professional and friendly. I was seen at my scheduled appointment time. I highly recommend.
Bobbie Bullock-Smith
11:37 25 Jun 25
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
Theresa Orr
18:16 24 Jun 25
5 years later and they are still the best! Had a molar filling from 30 years ago break down, so another crown was needed. This was a one-visit-fix! Digital measurements were taken, the molar was prepped to be a post for the new crown, and the new crown was fabricated in the office, placed and ready to go. No off adjust on, off adjust back on, all done in one seamless event. Dr. Dorfman and assist were kind, gentle, and responsive.Additional staff in the office and everyone was friendly, smiling, and the vibe was focused on taking care of people. Highly recommend!Terrible tooth/jaw pain increasing over a couple of days. The folks here got me an appointment within 24 hours. At the appointment, Dr. Dorfman and Jenny methodically went through all the potential causes, settled on the least invasive of checking/adjusting a crown, and proceeded to do so. Very gentle handling. I left with a primary plan, and a secondary plan. Great service!
Ilias Katogiritis
23:43 18 Jun 25
THE ART OF DENTISTRYDARREN DORFMAN & RYAN SHUCK dental clinic is prompt in confirming appointments, the staff is extremely courteous, and the doctor's attention to detail in patient care 2nd to none,also the hygienists are the best, I’ve been a patient for 15 years.
Brian Barnett
11:34 18 Jun 25
Great service, great value. Nice office, nice staff. Will definitely recommend
Frederic Bishop
11:36 13 Jun 25
I’ve been going here for maybe 15 years now, and these people are always ready to help you in an emergency. The reason I started going here was because they can give you a crown the same day that you come into the office with their advanced 3-D printer. I had a cleaning yesterday with Kristy and then an examination by Dr. Dorfman. I always leave knowing that they have given me thorough exam.
Anne Peacock
11:32 12 Jun 25
Always friendly and great service. Highly recommend this office.
Jane Coryell
12:00 10 Jun 25
I always have a great appointment. Time is taken during cleaning and Dr. Dorfman always listens to any issues and provides care to remedy them.
Godfrey Vaerewyck
14:34 08 Jun 25
The cleaning went very well. Jennifer was very professional and thorough. We’ve been coming to this dentist office going on 23 years. You don’t stay with an organization that long if the service was substandard.
Bill W
14:27 06 Jun 25
Great personalized service all around. Wonderful team.
Randie White
13:08 05 Jun 25
Great people, great place. I have been going to them since I moved to Virginia Beach over 10 years ago. Everything from check in, cleaning, exam and services have been great. I had an old crown come off, they squeezed me in to fix it the same day, highly recommend The Art of Dentistry!
Barbara Edmonds
15:52 04 Jun 25
Jennifer A. is my daughter and I hygienist. She is amazing and we always come out with our teeth feeling so fresh and so clean
Ed Rosequist
13:22 22 May 25
Great dental cleaning. Easy in & out. Good insight from Dr Dorfman & team. Best in Virginia Beach!!
Terri Calaman
11:58 22 May 25
Pamela Carpenter
11:25 20 May 25
yendi seckers
12:48 16 May 25
Wendy Simpson
11:29 16 May 25
I felt very welcomed. The office and waiting area were very clean and updated. The technology used was state of the art. I had a wonderful transition. Thanks to everyone who assisted me.The Art of Dentistry to the rescue! They squeezed me in to repair a chipped tooth. Dr. Dorfman and his team did a fantastic and efficient fix. This team never fails at putting a big “5 STAR SMILE” on my face.
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.
Jess
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!
J B
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.
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!
