Meet the Staff

Alona Alferez, RDH: Registered Dental Hygienist

Born and raised in the Philippines, Alona graduated from College of Lake County's Dental Hygiene Program in 2006. Shortly after, she joined the Winning Smile Dental Group team. The patients are her favorite part of her job; their life stories and experiences. Alona enjoys traveling, eating out and working out. In her spare time, she loves spending time with her husband and 2 kids.

Jo Ann Velastegui, RDA: Registered Dental Assistant

Jo Ann graduated from North Park University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree. After a few years, she returned to Northeastern University, where she completed her Master's Degree in Counseling. At present, Jo Ann enjoys working a few days with Dr. Reese as a dental assistant. She enjoys every aspect of dentistry. The rest of her time she works as a Licensed Rehab Counselor helping individuals with various physical disabilities and mental disorders. Her life is filled with the joy of helping people in all areas of life. She considers herself very lucky to be able to enjoy two different professions.

Janeta Nikolova, RDH: Registered Dental Hygienist

Janeta’s dental career started ted in 2003 as a dental assistant. She quickly became passionate about dentistry which inspired her to further her education and become a dental Hygienist. She graduated from College of Lake County with an Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene with honors. She loves seeing the transformation in people’s smiles and playing a part in that. She takes great pride in patients care and continuing care education.
Janeta and her husband have two kids and a dog. When she is not working, she loves cooking, reading, and spending time with her family and friends.

Stephanie: Certificated Dental Assistant

What drew me into dentistry was having braces for two years. The assistant I had changing my rubber bands inspired me. She was always happy, smiling, making me feel great and excited for my next appointment. I knew I wanted to do the same. I registered for school and soon after became a certificated dental assistant (CDA). Soon after that I went to get certified for Coronal polishing (CE).
Many say dentistry is very repetitive but it actuality its not. There’s always new ways and new technology that makes coming to your next dental appointment fun and exciting. I love this field because I get to be apart of life changing smiles where you no longer need to cover your teeth when you smile.
On my spare time I like to catch up with my two little boys and fiancé.

Lydia: Administrative Assistant

I have been working in dentistry for over 20 years.
I have worked in the clinical department as well as the administrative assistant.
One of the things I enjoy most about dentistry is to see how changing a patients smile transforms their lives.
In my spare time I like to cook for my family and watch movies.