Jennifer Besser -- Treatment Coordinator

 Jennifer has been with the practice for over 10 years and is the Treatment Coordinator at Thurman Orthodontics.  Being the Treatment Coordinator means will be the one who takes the initial records, photos and any x-rays that Dr. Thurman may need to fully diagnose and explain all of your orthodontic treatment options.  She helps patients fully understand the recommended treatment that Dr. Thurman feels is best for each patient and all of the benefits orthodontic care provides.  Her favorite part of the job though is the post treatment consultation appointment where Dr. Thurman shows each patients their before and after photos.  "I absolutely loved to see the faces of our patients and their families when they see the before and after smile transformation, it's truly a life changing moment for our patients and I love being a part of their experience!  Our patients and their families become our family and I love getting to know our patients on a personal level and the excitement they have when their braces come off. We are a small, fun, and easy going team and I couldn't ask for a better work environment."

Jennifer was born and raised in Bakersfield and live here with her husband and two children. She is also fluent in Sign Language because both of her parents are hearing impaired.




Dana Tebbe -- Scheduling Coordinator, Office manager

 Dana has been with the practice for over 20 years, long before Dr. Thurman ever took over. Like all of us, she the best part of her job is being able to be a part of something that makes a positive difference in people's lives, and a new smile does that!  She, and her smiling face, is the one who greets all of our patients whether it's their first day with us, or they've been with us for years.  "Our patients make my work enjoyable and it is fun getting to know them. My coworkers make me laugh everyday, making my work day very enjoyable."

Dana lives in Bakersfield with her husband, John, and daughter, Ariel. They also have two dogs, Toby and Roadster. In her free time she like camping, jet skiing, reading, and spending time with my family and friends.




Jennifer Cress -- Clinical technician

Jennifer brings a wealth of clinical experience and has worked orthodontics for over 15 years.  She is truly a people person, and our patients LOVE her excellent communication skills and genuine personality.  She enjoys watching the smile makeovers that take place throughout treatment, and the excitement on patients faces after they get their braces off and see their beautiful, healthy new smile!

She was born and raised in Bakersfield, and outside of the office enjoys spending time with her husband, Dan, and two boys, Bryson and Brock.




Ali Villagran - Clinical Technician

Ali has a great deal of clinical orthodontic experience and has worked in the field for over 10 years. Ali's strengths are her meticulous attention to detail, her genuine and caring personality, and excellent communication skills. Our patients and parents appreciate her warm smile and friendly positive attitude. Ali feels orthodontic treatment allows patients to feel more confident in their appearance and enhance their self esteem and enjoys being a part of such an great experience. Ali was born and raised right here in Bakersfield. Outside the office she spending time with husband Mike, and two boys Calvin and Braxton.

Melissa Hennagan - Financial coordinator

Melissa is our financial coordinator which means she assists all of our patients with any financial matter, including her #1 priority: helping our patients maximize their insurance benefits.  We believe everyone should have the access to quality orthodontic care, which is why Melissa is an expert in making all of our treatments affordable for any families budget.  Our patients appreciate her professional demeanor, warm and caring personality, and friendly smile.  She was born and raised right here in Bakersfield, CA and when she's not in the office she enjoys spending time with her family and three beautiful children!