Our Dentists
Dr. Joanne Thomas
A Grand Falls, Newfoundland native, Dr. Joanne Thomas studied at Mount Allison University, graduating with an Honours degree in biology and chemistry, and went on to the Faculty of Dentistry at Dalhousie University, graduating with her DDS in 1989. After graduation, she returned to Newfoundland to practice dentistry in St. John's, but returned to Nova Scotia to practice dentistry in Dartmouth, where she has been ever since.
Dr. Thomas continues to be involved in the dental community and engaged with dental education. She’s active with the Nova Scotia Dental Association, the Canadian Dental Association, the Atlantic Complete Dentistry Club, the Canadian Academy of Restorative Dentists and Prosthodontists, and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. She has also been an instructor at Dalhousie and a mentor to dental students in her practice. She graduated from the Pankey Institute for Advanced Dental Education in 2005-2009 and the F.O.R.C.E. program in orthodontics in 2001, and is active in study groups with the Pankey Institute and the Atlantic Dental Implant study club. She has trained at the Pacific Institute for Facial Aesthetics & Therapeutics.
Joanne understands the importance of community, both in her personal and professional life. She is active in her local community, and serves on the board of directors at CHEEMA aquatic club. Joanne stays active by running and skiing, and enjoys playing the piano, travelling, cooking and spending time with her family.
Dr. Carlee Held
Dr. Carlee Held, brings a wealth of expertise in general, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. With a commitment to personalized treatment and a collaborative approach, she strives to provide a comfortable and welcoming environment for comprehensive dental care.
Growing up in Ontario, Carlee understands the importance of prioritizing health and well-being in our busy lives. She is a proud member of the Nova Scotia Dental Association, the Canadian Dental Association, the East Coast Endodontic Study Club, the Canadian Academy of Restorative Dentists and Prosthodontists, and the Academy of General Dentistry.
Carlee studied at the University of Guelph, graduating with an Honours degree in Biomedical Science and Psychology, and went on to the Faculty of Dentistry at University College Cork, Ireland, graduating top of her class in 2020. She received several awards including Best Overall Student in Dental Surgery, S. Keating Award for Excellence in Pediatric Dentistry, and Best Overall Student in the Clinical Programme. After graduation, she returned to Canada to practice dentistry in Port Elgin, ON. She has relocated to Dartmouth, with her partner Tom, a Nova Scotia native.
In addition to her practice, Carlee prioritizes being a lifelong learner. She has taken courses in sedation, oral surgery, endodontics, clear aligner therapy, and implant prosthodontics to name a few! She prides herself in listening to her patient's needs and seeking out ways she can be a better clinician for them.
Outside of her professional life, Carlee spends her time with Tom and their dog Cali. They enjoy traveling, cooking, and exploring the outdoors!
Brittany Patient Care Coordinator
Brittany graduated as a Level II Dental Assistant from Georgian College in 2018. After four years of chairside assisting, she transitioned into front desk administration, where she continues to thrive. She has worked in various clinics in both clinical, administrative and leadership roles, gaining valuable experience along the way. Brittany enjoys building trusting & long lasting relationships with patients. She is confidently able to help patients navigate and understand their treatment needs and dental insurance. After relocating from Ontario to Nova Scotia in 2025, she is enjoying getting to know the Dartmouth and surrounding areas. Outside of the clinic, Brittany enjoys working out, spending time with her family and her cats, Merlin and Delilah.
Gwen Hygienist
Gwen was born and raised in Dartmouth and graduated with her degree in Dental Hygiene in 2020. She is dedicated to connecting with people in the community and promoting healthy smiles! When not in the office you can find her catching up on all the reality tv drama with her cat Nutmeg.
Nakiah Hygienist
Nakiah grew up in Halifax and completed her education at Dalhousie University. Within the clinic, her favourite part of what she does is connecting with patients to help them learn how they can best care for their individual oral health needs. Outside of her career she enjoys being in the kitchen, being outside, or relaxing with a cup of coffee and her cats. She likes to travel and looks forward to continuing to explore food and culture in other parts of the globe.
Régan Hygienist
Régan is a passionate dental hygienist who believes in the strong connection between oral health and overall well-being. Growing up in Canso, Nova Scotia, she was inspired to pursue a career in dental hygiene. Régan completed her Dental Hygiene Diploma at Dalhousie University and went on to earn her Bachelor of Dental Hygiene. She loves helping patients feel more at ease during their dental appointments and enjoys sharing tips about oral health. When she’s not at the clinic, Régan loves spending time with her family and friends, as well as her cat, Peep, and dog, Ivy.
Ashley Dental Assistant
Ashley graduated from NSCC’s Registered Dental Assistant program in 2007. She has worked at various dental offices around HRM, but Tacoma Dental is her home and her favourite place to be. When not at work you will find her at baseball, hockey or dance competitions with her two amazing kids.
Sam Dental Assistant
Sam recently graduated from Dental Assisting Level II at NSCC and is excited to start her career in the industry alongside the team at Tacoma. When not assisting she can be found spending time with her dog and family. She also loves walking along the beach during a nice sunrise or sunset.
Chloe Administration
Chloe is an administrative staff member at Tacoma Dental Centre, where she enjoys contributing to the health of our community. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her cat, and savoring delicious foods. These passions bring a wonderful balance to her busy life.