The brief descriptions below are designed to familiarize you with our staff's training, professional credentials and work experience.

Dr. Ryan M. Friedrich, D.D.S. is an Atlanta native and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology from the University of Georgia. Dr. Friedrich earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Emory University School of Dentistry and has been in private practice since 1987. He has been at his current location since 1992. Dr. Friedrich is a proud and active member of the prestigious American Dental Association, Northern District Dental Society, Hinman Dental Society, International of Oral Implantologist, and the Georgia Dental Association. Dr. Friedrich remains involved in various research and study groups that continue to impact the advancement of dentistry and has received numerous certificates of achievements. Dr. Friedrich is committed to attending dental conventions, seminars, and meetings year round as to ensure that is office remains a leader in the industry. Not only is Dr. Friedrich skilled with his hands and delivers excellence in dentistry on all levels he also prides himself on his listening skills. As a result, he not only meets, but exceeds his patients’ expectations and cherishes his strong patient relationships. Dr. Friedrich’s patients know how much he cares for each of them and appreciate his dedication.

Dr. Friedrich is an active member of the community and was honored to be selected and serve on the 1996 Summer Olympics Dental Staff held in Atlanta. Dr. Friedrich has been involved in the Ben Mussel Dental Clinic and has volunteered with his children at the Georgia Special Olympic Games. Since 1998, he has been very active in Atlanta youth volleyball and hockey where he has held numerous volunteer leadership positions from commissioner of the league to head coach. Dr. Friedrich plays both tennis and basketball year round. He, his wife, Jo-Ann and their two children, Jessica and Kevin, are all avid snow skiers, love to travel, enjoy boating, family tennis matches, and listening to music. Of course the four are big Atlanta sports and Georgia Bulldogs fans.

S. Ashley Altman, RDH has been with Dr. Friedrich’s office since receiving her Dental Hygiene license in 1997. She graduated from the prestigious Palm Beach C.C. in Florida, which is the one of the longest running dental hygiene programs in the United States. “I love every aspect of being a dental hygienist. The patients are the best part of all.” Originally in the hospitality industry, her years of customer service have helped her to anticipate patients’ needs. As our patients all agree, our office is lucky to have someone has skilled, talented, and overall wonderful as Ashley leading our hygiene department. Along with advance periodontal training and a desire to educate patients of their oral health, Ashley genuinely cares about her patients. They describe her as very gentle and thorough. “Every person is special and unique. I want them to enjoy their experience at the dental office and help them have a great smile – your most important accessory.” Ashley enjoys spending time at Lake Oconee with her family. Her other interests are sports (Go Braves/Go Falcons), reading, and music.

Sherry Gay, RDH has been with Dr. Friedrich’s office since 2002 and comes with 18 years of experience in the dental industry. Sherry graduated from the prestigious Palm Beach College Dental Hygiene program and has had extensive training in all areas of dentistry, concentrating in periodontal care and treatment. “I love the instant gratification of helping a patient heal themselves and become more confident about their oral health and smile.” As all of her patients would agree, Sherry is a tremendous asset to our practice and makes each patient feel comfortable and relaxed throughout the appointment. Her knowledge and expertise in the dental hygiene is unsurpassed and her dedication to the care of her patients is unparallel. Our office is fortunate to have Sherry as part of our team and her bright smile and sweet attitude is appreciated daily. Sherry enjoys traveling, cooking, and being with family and friends. Her biggest joy and adventure is our baby girl born September 2006

Susana Lara is a general and cosmetic clinical dental assistant and has been with the practice since 1999. Susana is a native of Madrid, Spain where she graduated in 1998 from the prestigious Castilla La Mancha University with a degree in English and Linguistics. Susana’s caring and gentle manner makes her extremely popular among our patients and makes them feel comfortable and relaxed during the office visit. She is extremely skilled in all aspects of dentistry and is one of our lead technicians in x-rays, impressions, and temporaries. Susana is also a big part of our cosmetic dentistry department and works with the cosmetic smile evaluation team and prides herself on her shade selection abilities and talents. She and her Husband, Andreu have enjoyed living in the United States and have made wonderful lifelong friends. They are devoted parents to their adorable son and enjoy traveling the United States and riding their bicycles as a family.

Allison Perez is our office manager and joined our practice in 2004. She comes to us with an extensive background in retail management with strong customer service skills. With her outgoing personality, Alli, makes our patients feel warm and welcome the minute they walk through the door. Our schedule runs smoothly and seamlessly due Alli’s organization and time management skills. Alli continues to attend various conventions, meetings, and classes to stay up-to-date on the latest, greatest front office technology and his constantly trying to enhance our office and help all our patients to have a high-quality, successful experience. We are fortunate to have someone as helpful and delightful as Alli to meet our patient’s scheduling needs and requests. You may also ask Alli insurance coverage questions as she is very knowledgeable about the various policies and is considered an expert in the field. Alli is a proud graduate of the University of Georgia and a big bulldog fan. When Alli is not at the office she can be found at the park with her dogs, spending time with her friends, or enjoying quality time with her husband, Mike.

Joely Rathbun is our Financial Coordinator and has been part of our practice since September 2000. She is available to answer any questions you may have regarding your account and insurance policy. Joely is not only versed in the front office but is also an experienced cosmetic clinical dental assistant. With a strong background and talent in art, Joely has a keen aesthetic eye and a strong contributor to our office dental cosmetic department. We are very lucky to have Joely, who is extremely knowledgeable and her expertise in both areas makes her a tremendous asset to our practice. Joely continues to develop her financial skills and enhance her clinical achievements by attending various classes and dental conventions. As a proud graduate from the University of Georgia, Joely is a huge bulldog fan and loves attending the games during football season. She also enjoys spending time with her husband, Bobby and two beautiful sons.