My name is Dr. Tarah Ridenbark. I am happy to announce I am joining the fantastic team at Healthy Smiles full time! I have met many of you already, but for those I have not, I cannot wait to meet you. Before I do, I thought you might like to learn a few things about me. I am from the small town of Staunton, Illinois where I grew up on a farm raising various animals and growing crops. I have a wonderful, large family of two older brothers and two younger sisters. And I have recently been promoted to auntie! As a child I enjoyed trips to the dentist and knew that’s what I wanted to do. I received my Associates of Applied Science from Lewis and Clark Community College, Bachelors of Science in Biology from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, and my Doctorate of Dental Medicine from Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine. During dental school I was able to provide many hours of community service and education, and continue to volunteer in the community when I can. I also had the opportunity to attend a mission trip to Jamaica, where dental care was provided to thousands of people in need. I intend to volunteer for more missions trips in the future.