We pride ourselves on creating a friendly, welcoming environment where your care is our top priority. Get to know the team who makes it all happen—we can’t wait to see you!

Beth – Office Manager

Beth – Office Manager

Having joined Lawson Dentistry as the Office Manager in 2024, Beth brings over ten years of dental experience, including assisting, hygiene, and front office. Frequently the first point of contact for patients, Beth enjoys getting to know everyone and ensuring they have the best possible dental experience, from scheduling to enhancing your smile, at all their visits! She and her husband have two active teenage boys.

Shawnae – Treatment Coordinator

Shawnae was born and raised in Wabash, Indiana, where she developed her strong Midwestern values and love for community. She and her husband David later made Pella home for 17 wonderful years, raising their three children – Kristen, Kloe, and Kamden. When their three grandchildren – Avery, Blakely, and Everly – arrived, Shawnae and her husband David happily followed their hearts to Ankeny to be closer to family.

Professionally, Shawnae brings a diverse and well-rounded background that includes experience as a business owner, as well as roles in regional sales, marketing, and administration. Her versatility, strong work ethic, and ability to adapt allow her to seamlessly take on a variety of responsibilities while providing exceptional support to both her team and patients. Shawnae looks forward to welcoming and working with the patients of Lawson Dentistry, where she is commited to creating a positive and friendly experience for everyone who walks through the door.

Shawnae and her husband enjoy spending weekends with loved ones, catching the latest movies, riding motorcycles, and playing pickleball. Traveling is a passion, and they’re always ready for their next adventure.

Taylor – Expanded Functions Dental Assistant

Taylor – Expanded Functions Dental Assistant

Originally from Frankfort, Illinois, Taylor moved to Des Moines after graduating from the University of Iowa. She has previous dental assisting experience and is grateful to gain even more hands-on experience at Lawson Dentistry. Passionate about combining her background in human physiology with advanced dental technique, this role has deepened her interest in neuromuscular dentistry, particularly in treating TMJ patients and individuals with sleep apnea. Taylor is excited to start dental school at the University of Louisville School of Dentistry in the Fall of 2025!

Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, baking, and watching sports(she is a huge White Sox, Packers, and Iowa fan). She also loves to travel, with her favorite experience being hiking Machu Picchu in Peru.

Kayleigh – Expanded Functions Dental Assistant

I’m Kayleigh, and I became a RDA in 2022.  I enjoy helping and educating patients the best that I can! I live in Urbandale with my husband and dog, Stella. I enjoy working out, making new recipes, shopping, and traveling.

Sabrina – Dental Hygienist

Sabrina has been a hygienist for over 14 years and loves all the proactive and holistic ways we can now help patients. Sabrina loves traveling anywhere – especially where it is warm and she can try new foods! She loves hanging it with her family, friends, and cat, Nala. Sabrina will be getting married in April 2025!

Kara – Dental Hygienist

Originally from Knoxville, Tennessee, Kara moved to Des Moines in May of 2024. She graduated from Lincoln Memorial University with a degree in dental hygiene. It was there that Kara developed her passion for patient care and holistic dentistry. She loves the idea of not only helping people feel better about their smiles but also improving their overall health. Kara is excited to work at Lawson Dentistry to expand her skills and knowledge, ultimately enhancing her ability to help patients. Kara lives in Grimes with her husband, Thomas. Outside of work, she enjoys working out, spending time outdoors, and traveling. In college, Kara participated in a study abroad program in Greece, where she developed a passion for exploring different landscapes and cultures.