Our Team
Meet our Dentist
Kay Younggren
D.D.S., F.I.C.O.I.
Dentistry has given me the opportunity to make a positive change in people’s lives. I love getting to know my patients and assisting them with their dental needs. I cannot imagine a more fulfilling job. And even more special to me is working in my hometown.
I am a 1998 graduate of Artesia High School. After high school, I moved to Texas to further my education, first graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry with a minor in biology from McMurry University, and then graduating with a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Baylor College of Dentistry, Texas A&M Health Science Center. I have also received and completed a fellowship in Implantology with the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (F.I.C.O.I.). Following graduation from dental school, I began practicing dentistry in Artesia. Two years later, I purchased Smile Xpressions. Over the past decade, we have expanded into a new, state-of-the-art facility featured in Sidekick Dental Magazine.
In addition to the daily practice of dentistry, I am involved in several professional organizations: the American Dental Association, the New Mexico Dental Association Board, and the Eastern New Mexico Dental Association (President 2010–12). I continue involvement with my undergraduate alma mater, serving as an Alumni Association Board of Director (2008–17) and a University Trustee (2017–present) and am proud to have received the Spirit of McMurry Award, which the university bestows upon its distinguished alumni.
I am a past-president and current member of the Artesia Downtown Lions Club. I also work with the Written in Red Foundation and am a member of Artesia First Methodist Church.
In my free time, I enjoy traveling with my husband Chris Lauderman, and spending time with our dog Gabby.
Meet our Dental Hygienists
Serrina Gonzalez
R.D.H.
I came aboard the staff of Smile Xpressions in 2006 as a dental assistant. I worked as a dental assistant while attending dental hygiene school at ENMU-R and graduated 2013. It was then that I began my dental hygiene adventure.
My husband, Abe, and I began our family in 2013 and have three children Abie, Natalia and Isabella. I now work as a part-time hygienist so that I can spend extra time at home. Abie was born with Down-Syndrome, and our family is committed to special needs children. I enjoy spending time with my family and traveling.
Shirley Hafliger
B.S.D.H, R.D.H.
I have been a registered dental hygienist at Smile Xpressions for over 20 years. I received my Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene degree from Loma Linda University in 1997. Working hard every day to provide excellent care to my patients to ensure they will keep their teeth for their lifetime is my top priority. Through education and encouragement, my patients learn the most helpful ways to maintain optimum oral health and the integral relationship their oral health plays in their overall health and wellness. Many of my patients feel like personal friends and family to me. Outside of the office, I enjoy spending time with my husband Mark and our family.
Candice Greathouse
R.D.H.
Sarah Venegas
R.D.H.
I graduated from hygiene school in 2010 from ENMU- Roswell. I began my career as a dental hygienist in Las Vegas, NM. I moved back to Artesia, my hometown in 2014 and have been at Smile Xpressions ever since. I enjoy helping my patients improve and maintain good oral health. My goal is to treat and educate my patients so that they can keep their teeth for a lifetime!
I spend my free time outdoors; camping, hunting, fishing, and golfing with my husband Sammy Rodriguez Jr. and our kids Sammy, Brooke, RJ, and Axel.
Austyn Williams
B.S.D.H., R.D.H.
I graduated from San Juan College in Farmington with a degree dental hygiene. I continued my education at the University of New Mexico, where I obtained a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene. I practically grew up at Smile Xpressions, where my mom is the office manager, and I worked part-time throughout high school and college. Witnessing the significance of dental care shaped my career path and inspired me to become a hygienist. I started my career in Clovis, NM, but my true desire was to return to Artesia and work at Smile Xpressions. I’m thrilled to officially become part of the family!
I also enjoy volunteering with the Artesia Downtown Lions Club, serving on various local boards, and acting as the Advisor for the Artesia Leos Club – a local youth service organization. Additionally, I have a passion for photography and graphic design, and I run a part-time business called Austyn Williams Photo+Design. I partner with my mom (Missy) and several other incredible women at Shenanigans Event Planning, a company dedicated to crafting memorable events. In my free time, I love reading, doing crafts, and spending time with my dogs, Cobi and Vegas.
Katie Fernandez
B.S.D.H, R.D.H.
Julie Washichek
R.D.H.
I graduated from Dona Ana Community College in Las Cruces in May 2010 and have been a full-time registered dental hygienist ever since. I lived and worked in Roswell until January 2023, when we moved back to Artesia. I joined the Smile Xpressions team in February 2024 and am excited to be part of such a wonderful office.
I married my amazing husband, Derek Washichek, in May 2010, and we have two children: a son named Grayden and a daughter named Braelynn. My family is the highlight of my life, and we love spending time together, especially traveling. I look forward to continuing to serve this community and helping patients develop healthy oral habits.
Meet our Dental Assistants
Brittany Caley
C.D.A.
I joined the practice in the Summer of 2012, while doing my practicum hours for dental assisting at ENMU-R, then later graduated in December. I was hired full time in 2013. I love working at Smile Xpressions, the staff is like family to me. When I’m not at work, I am spending time with my significant other and our four kids. Our children love sports and being outside, so we spend most of our time outdoors. I also am a “Mom” to 30 plus chickens and plant a garden yearly on our property. I grew up in town so life in the country has been fun.
Jessica Salmon
Dental Assistant
I have been dental assisting since 2003 and have been with Smile Xpressions since 2010. I truly enjoy what I do. I am married to Tito Salmon and we have two daughters, Sydni and Nadia. My newest hobby is spending time with our granddaughter, Aleiya. We are a very active family and some of our hobbies include working out together and playing golf. We are also active members of Faith Baptist Church and enjoy serving with our church family.
Delaney Rodriguez
A.S, C.D.A.
I began my dental career at Smile Xpressions while doing clinical hours for school at the beginning of 2017. I joined the team of Smile Xpressions permanently in June 2018. I have an Associates in Science from New Mexico State University as well as a Dental Assisting Certificate which I obtained from Lubbock Dental Assistant School. I am married to Joshua Rodriguez my lifelong friend. My hobbies include spending time with family and friends, camping, and being outdoors.
Gabby Laris
Dental Assistant
I attended the Lubbock dental assisting program and received my certification in March 2016. While in the program I did my clinical hours at Smile Xpressions. I was born and raised in Roswell. After 6 months of having moved to Artesia, I joined the Smile Xpressions team permanently in March 2019. Out of the office, you can catch me with my lifelong partner Marcos and daughters Itzel and Myla. We love spending our time with family and friends. My favorite hobby would have to be photography, I like to capture special moments that will forever turn into memories.
Emily Sanchez
Front Office/Dental Assistant
Mireya Lujan
Dental Assistant
Surprisingly, my braces made me want to go into dentistry. I had such a positive experience and I strive to give my patients that same attention. To pursue my dream, I attended Central New Mexico Community College and became a Certified Dental Assistant. After college, I decided to move home to Artesia. My husband (and high-school sweetheart) Robert and I have five pets. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, working out, and spending time with my family.
Meet our Office Staff
Missy Williams
Office Manager, B.B.A.
I have been part of the practice since May 2, 1994. I earned my Bachelor of Business Administration degree from New Mexico State University in 1989 and have enjoyed over 30 years in the dental field, which I still love! Raised in Artesia, I have had the pleasure of helping both old friends and new acquaintances at our practice since returning to the area.
I am happily married to my wonderful husband, Perry, and we have two children, Austyn and Denver. In my free time, I enjoy diving, scrapbooking, and reading. I am an active member of Lions Club International, serving at both local and state levels. I held the position of District Governor for 40S during the 2023-2024 term and have taken on various roles within the Artesia Downtown Lions Club. Additionally, my husband and I are dedicated Quarterback Club Parents and active members of First Baptist Church. I co-founded Shenanigans, a company committed to creating unforgettable events, alongside an incredible team of women. I was honored to be named Artesia Volunteer of the Year in 2012 and to receive the Women of Impact Public Servant Award in 2024.
Gina Torres, C.D.A.
Front Office
I’m a certified dental assistant and have worked for Smile Xpressions since 1989. I began and worked many years in the back as a dental assistant, about 10 years ago I transitioned to the front office as the scheduling coordinator. It’s my pleasure to help our patients and I love the atmosphere and the staff that make up the “family” here at Smile Xpressions.
Israel and I married in 1971 and have 3 children Nathan, Gino, and Tori. We have two granddaughters, Ciara and Daryan, one grandson, A.J., and two great-grandsons, Kaden & Rawley J.
Sonya Lopez
Insurance/Financial Coordinator
Chanda Whitt
Front Office
I completed the dental assisting program at Eastern New Mexico University Roswell. During my education, I gained valuable clinical experience at Smile Xpressions and the Chavez County Detention Center. After graduating as a certified dental assistant in 2012, I have continuously worked in the dental field In 2016, I received cross-training and transitioned to full-time front office duties a few years later. I truly appreciate the supportive environment our office provides for both staff and patients.
Outside of work, I love spending time with my husband, John, and our two sons. We are active members of Harvest Fellowship and support our sons’ interests through the Artesia Band Boosters. In my free time, I enjoy gardening, crocheting, and reading.
Sydni Barlow
Front Office
I was raised in Artesia, driven by a strong desire to serve others. My deep affection for my community led me to Smile Xpressions, where I’ve found a fulfilling opportunity to make a difference. I joined the team in January 2024 and have loved working alongside my mom, Jessica.
Beyond work, I cherish moments with my husband, David, and our daughter, Aleiya. I also find joy in golfing and engaging in outdoor activities.