Since joining the practice in 1987, Claudia has served in nearly every role and brings a wealth of experience to her current position as Practice Administrator.
She worked under Dr. Leslie Levine for 21 years and now supports the team under Dr. Hessam Nowzari.
Currently working remotely and behind the scenes, Claudia helps ensure the practice runs smoothly and patients receive the highest level of care. She values the lasting relationships built with families over the years.
Outside of work, Claudia enjoys spending time with her family, serving in various roles at her church, and traveling.
Elsy has been a dedicated team member for over 35 years.
As the Assistant Manager, she oversees billing operations and specializes in insurance billing. Known for her reliability and deep knowledge of office processes, Elsy plays a key role in ensuring smooth day-to-day operations. Outside of work, she is a proud mother of five and grandmother to ten, balancing her professional life with a strong devotion to family.
As Operations Director, Blanca Mercado is dedicated to creating an unforgettable experience for
every patient who walks through our doors.
She oversees the day-to-day flow of the office with a focus on efficiency, kindness, and genuine care — always making sure patients feel seen, heard, and valued. Blanca is passionate about personal and professional growth. She constantly sets new goals for herself and finds fulfillment in building a positive, productive environment for both patients and the team.
Outside of the office, you’ll likely find her exploring the latest food spots recommended by TikTok, making sure she hits her 10k steps a day goal, going to concerts, making unforgettable
memories & spending time with her loved ones, or planning her next productive day.
Sharlene very much enjoys caring for and educating patients. She loves seeing positive results of this collaboration!
With a BS Degree and RDH Certification from USC, Sharlene returned to her alma mater as an assistant clinical professor of Dental Hygiene for 10 years.
Sharlene made Irvine her home. Sharlene stays sharp and happy through exercise, traveling, and cooking (although she claims “not very well” for the cooking!)
Meeting lots of people and giving them their smiles back is what Nancy enjoys most
about her job.
She received her certifications as an RDA, X-ray tech, and for Coronal Polishing in 1991. She and her husband George have three lovely children, Dianne,
Ivan and Ace. Nancy loves watching her kids, playing tennis and traveling with her family.
Kathy loves working as member of the team to provide excellent dental care to the community.
She received her BS in Dental Hygiene from University of Southern California, and received her license to practice as an RDH in 1981. Kathy stays fit by swimming, walking and practicing yoga. She is an avid fan of movies and plays, enjoys going to concerts, and is a student of Metaphysics.
Helping people to have healthy mouths and “happy teeth” delights Armineh.
She is another proud USC grad, with a Bachelor of Science and RDH degree from the school where Dr. Levine served on faculty, and Dr. Nowzari served as Director. She and her husband live in Glendale with a “spoiled little dog.” Arf!
Deborah truly understands that Dental health and overall health affect each other.
So it’s no wonder that she relishes her work helping others stay healthy in “this beautiful Life” about which she is so passionate. Deborah received her RDH certification from USC, and she participates regularly in Continuing Education programs both at USC and at American Dental Association annual sessions.
She has a big Persian family here in L.A., with four brothers and two sisters. Also, as an avid reader, Deborah is always looking for recommendations about good books you have read.
