Our Team
Owner & Dentist
Dr. Angelina Blass is the owner and dentist at Briarwood Dental, where she and her team provide comprehensive, family-centered care with a strong focus on airway health, jaw development, and whole-body wellness. She graduated from the University of Iowa College of Dentistry in 2004 and has spent over two decades helping patients achieve healthier smiles through thoughtful, preventive, and personalized care.
In addition to comprehensive general dentistry, Dr. Blass has a special clinical interest in airway-focused dentistry and guided jaw growth, particularly in children. She is a graduate of the Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine Mastery Program and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. She is also a Toothpillow provider for the state of Iowa and is an Airway Health Solutions Airway Dentist, completing hundreds of continuing education hours focused on airway dentistry and jaw growth and development.
At Briarwood Dental, Dr. Blass and her team take a whole-person approach to dentistry, recognizing that oral health does not exist in isolation. She focuses on identifying the root causes of dental and oral health concerns, rather than simply treating symptoms. Her philosophy emphasizes prevention, early intervention, and working with a child’s natural growth to create space for the permanent teeth, healthy development and long-term stability.
Dr. Blass is especially passionate about helping children sleep and breathe better, knowing that proper airway function can influence everything from behavior and focus to facial growth and overall health. She partners closely with families, taking time to educate and empower parents so they feel confident and informed throughout their child’s care.
When she’s not in the office, Dr. Blass enjoys spending time with her four children, traveling, and continuing her education so she can bring the most current, evidence-based care to her patients.
Dental Hygienist
Shannon is a dedicated dental hygienist who graduated from Des Moines Area Community College in 2021 and earned her Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene from Minnesota State University, Mankato in 2023. With a strong focus on patient education and preventive care, she strives to create a comfortable and positive experience for every patient. Outside the office, she enjoys spending time with her husband and their dogs, crocheting, reading, and hiking.
Dental Hygienist
Erica is a Registered Dental Hygienist with 28 years of experience in the dental field and 18 years practicing clinical dental hygiene. With a strong focus on the connection between oral health and overall health, she strives to make every visit both informative and stress-free. Erica has served on the DMACC Dental Hygiene advisory board for six years and is currently studying orofacial myofunctional therapy.
Dental Hygienist
Kim has been a dedicated dental hygienist for over 10 years. She is certified in laser therapy, offering an advanced approach to treating gum disease, and has pursued additional training in sleep appliances, orthodontics, and other clinical techniques. Kim is passionate about creating a personalized, one-on-one patient experience and believes education is essential to long-term oral health and overall wellness.
Registered Dental Assistant
Jacquie has been a Registered Dental Assistant for over 30 years with Expanded Functions Level 1 certification. Her skill set and work ethic are unmatched, and her warmth allows her to make patients feel comfortable and at ease during their dental visit. Originally from San Diego, CA, Jacquie enjoys traveling to see her kids, listening to music, and hanging out with friends and family.
Registered Dental Assistant
Melissa has been a registered dental assistant for over 7 years with Expanded Functions Level 2 certification. Her calm demeanor helps patients feel comfortable during their dental visit. Melissa enjoys reading, sewing, and spending time with her family.
Office Manager
Chris has been the office manager at Briarwood Dental since 2015 and enjoys helping keep the office running smoothly each day. With a background in finance, he manages patient accounts, coordinates treatment, handles billing and payments, and tackles the occasional technology problem. Outside the office, Chris enjoys reading, collecting and playing retro video games, cheering on the Iowa State Cyclones, and spending time with his wife and three children.
Front Desk
Clair is the first smiling face welcoming you to the office. She has been a dental assistant for over twenty years and really enjoys our patients. She lives in Ankeny with her husband, Sean, their five children and two dogs. She enjoys spending time with her family, camping, and keeping a clean house.
