Meet the Team at Neis Dental

Alejandra
Office Administrator

Alejandra is the friendly face you’ll often see at our front desk or who you will speak to when you call the office. As our Office Administrator, she brings 11 years of experience and a wealth of knowledge to our office. Starting her career as a dental assistant, she transitioned to the front desk and now oversees scheduling, insurance and benefits, and patient accounts. She is always happy to help and goes the extra mile to make sure our patients feel cared for and supported.

Outside the office, Alejandra is a proud mom of three who loves cooking and creating her own coffee creations as a DIY barista!

Cristina
Hygienist

Cristina has been sparkling up smiles and helping patients stay on top of their oral health for 8 years and counting. With her calm, authentic personality, she creates a comfortable and welcoming experience for every patient in her chair. She takes pride in educating patients and helping them feel confident about their oral health.

Outside the office, Cristina is a proud wife and mom to two young children, a son and daughter. She stays busy with family life while also enjoying fitness, health, and traveling whenever she can.

Fran Taapken
Hygienist

Francesca has been a dental hygienist for 38 years and brings a wealth of experience to our practice. She graduated from the Prairie State dental hygiene program and later continued her education at the University of St. Francis. Over the years, she has worked in a variety of dental settings, including pediatric offices, giving her a broad and well-rounded perspective on patient care.

Known for her gentle approach and commitment to education, Francesca loves helping patients feel comfortable while teaching them how to improve their oral health.

Outside the office, she enjoys time with her three grandsons, getting lost in a good book, and relaxing at the barn with her horses.

Joanie
Assistant

Joanie brings 30 years of dental experience across general dentistry, oral surgery, and other specialties. She is well known in the dental community and has been a familiar and trusted face in the local area for many years. With advanced training and a true “jack of all trades” skillset, her knowledge and experience are unmatched. Just as special is her warm, friendly personality that makes you feel like you’ve known her for years.

Outside the office, Joanie proudly embraces her Greek heritage and loves being a Yia-Yia to her grandson.

Nelly Huicochea
Assistant

Nelly joined our team in 2022 and quickly became a calming, positive presence in the office. Patients appreciate her gentle, upbeat demeanor and the care she brings to every appointment.

Outside of work, Nelly loves spending time with her 5-year-old son, Johnny, and also her friends. She’s passionate about growing in the dental field and plans to continue her education by entering dental hygiene school in the near future.