Meet the Team at Riverfront Dental

Dr. Scott Howe

Dentist and Practice Owner

Dr. Scott Howe's connection to Riverfront Dental began long before he became the practice owner. As a patient growing up, he experienced firsthand the welcoming environment created by Dr. Tom Dugan. While in high school, he shadowed Dr. Dugan and discovered that dentistry combined two of his favorite interests: science and working with his hands. Seeing the positive impact a dentist could have on people's lives inspired him to pursue the profession, and he has never looked back.

Dr. Howe earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Willamette University in Salem before receiving his Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) from Oregon Health and Science University School of Dentistry in 2007. After graduating, he returned to Riverfront Dental as an associate dentist and later became the practice owner, proudly continuing the legacy Dr. Dugan began in 1980.

One of Dr. Howe's greatest passions is helping patients who have had difficult dental experiences or feel anxious about visiting the dentist. He takes the time to listen, explain treatment options, and provide gentle, compassionate care that helps patients feel comfortable and respected. Nothing is more rewarding to him than hearing someone say they've finally found a dental office where they feel at ease. He's equally proud to work alongside a team that shares his commitment to putting patients first.

Dr. Howe enjoys staying active by playing basketball several times a week, hiking, and spending time outdoors. He has also transformed his backyard into a thriving habitat for native wildlife, complete with native plants, food and water sources, and a rain garden. His passion for local wildlife often makes its way into the office, where he enjoys helping patients identify the birds and other animals they can spot from treatment room windows overlooking the Willamette River.

A fun fact about Dr. Howe? During his time at Willamette University, he studied squirrels with one of the country's leading squirrel researchers, spending summer and winter breaks conducting non-invasive behavioral studies to better understand these fascinating little creatures, affectionately known as "roof rabbits."

Rachael

Office Manager

Rachael brings more than 25 years of dental experience to Riverfront Dental and plays an important role in creating a smooth, welcoming experience for every patient. As our office manager, she oversees the day-to-day operations of the practice, helping patients with insurance questions, treatment planning, scheduling, and financial details while supporting the team behind the scenes.

Rachael began her dental career in 1999 after completing dental assisting school in Washington State. She joined Dr. Howe’s practice in 2007, where she worked chairside while also managing administrative responsibilities. In 2015, she transitioned into the role of office manager, continuing her commitment to providing personalized care.

One of Rachael’s favorite parts of dentistry is building lasting relationships with patients and being part of their stories through the years. She loves seeing families grow, from watching children become adults to welcoming new generations into the practice. After nearly two decades of working alongside the same team, she considers her coworkers family and enjoys creating the supportive, caring environment that makes Riverfront Dental special.

Outside the office, Rachael enjoys exploring the Pacific Northwest, spending time in nature, traveling, and making memories with family and friends. She also loves performing and previously participated in local community theater. A fun fact about Rachael is that she lived in Germany in her early twenties, where she had the opportunity to explore Europe and create unforgettable memories.

Petra

Receptionist and Support Assistant

Petra is a welcoming and familiar face at Riverfront Dental. She helps create a positive experience for every patient from the moment they walk through the door. As a member of the front office team, she manages scheduling, answers patient questions, supports the doctor and hygienist, and helps keep the practice running smoothly each day.

Petra began her dental career in 2020 after completing her training at Practical Dental Assisting of Oregon in Corvallis. While dentistry was a career change for her, she quickly discovered how rewarding it is to help patients feel comfortable and cared for during their visits.

One of Petra’s favorite parts of working at Riverfront Dental is building relationships with patients over time. She enjoys getting to know their families, remembering important moments in their lives, and creating a friendly environment where everyone feels welcome. She also appreciates the strong bond among the team and the way they support one another like family.

Outside of the office, Petra enjoys volunteering at the Marion County Dog Shelter, where she spends time helping dogs find their forever homes. A fun fact about Petra is that she was born in Germany, which often surprises patients and coworkers who get to know her.

Angela

Dental Assistant

Angela, who also goes by Angie, has been helping patients feel comfortable and cared for at Riverfront Dental for decades. She began her dental career in 1998 with Dr. Thomas Dugan and has worked alongside Dr. Scott Howe since 2007. She's a familiar face to many long-time patients! 

As an expanded functions dental assistant, Angie works closely with Dr. Howe during a variety of procedures, including fillings, crowns, and extractions. She also takes digital x-rays, assists with hygiene appointments, prepares treatment rooms, sterilizes instruments, and helps ensure every patient receives safe, high-quality care. She completed the expanded functions dental assistant program at Chemeketa Community College and received extensive chairside training.

One of Angie's favorite parts of her job is working with a team that feels like family. After so many years together, they've built strong relationships that create a welcoming environment for both patients and coworkers. She also loves helping patients improve their oral health and seeing the confidence that comes with a healthy smile.

Outside the dental office, Angie enjoys reading, gardening, camping, and hiking throughout the Pacific Northwest. She especially loves cooking authentic Italian meals using her immigrant grandmother's treasured family recipes, from homemade pasta sauces and pesto to classic lasagna. And one fun fact that always makes people smile? Angie thinks sloths are absolutely hilarious!

Dena

Dental Hygienist

Dena is a dental hygienist at Riverfront Dental with more than 40 years of experience helping patients achieve healthier smiles. She began her dental career in 1985 after discovering her passion for dentistry during her dental assisting training. Dena first completed the Dental Assisting Program at Linn-Benton Community College before earning her Dental Hygiene degree from Lane Community College.

Since joining Riverfront Dental in 1994 under Dr. Thomas Dugan, Dena has been dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality clinical care. She focuses on preventing disease, improving oral health, and helping patients feel comfortable and informed throughout their care. Dena believes every patient deserves to feel heard, taking the time to explain treatment options, answer questions, and build trust through personalized care.

One of Dena’s favorite parts of her role is creating lasting relationships with patients and their families. She enjoys helping patients overcome dental anxiety, improve their oral health, and experience the positive impact that quality dental care can have on their lives.

Outside the office, Dena enjoys gardening, spending time with her dogs, practicing karate, and volunteering at a local animal shelter where she supports animal rescue efforts. She is also a fourth-degree black belt in karate.