Meet our team

Our team was built with a shared goal - to give patients their dream smile. Get to know us!

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6939 Littlerock Rd SW, Suite B
6939 Littlerock Rd SW, Suite B
"We are a team dedicated to creating an environment of compassion, professionalism, and warmth. We strive to make our patients comfortable and healthy through the highest quality of care. We are highly trained and passionate about providing dental care that meets our patients' health and cosmetic needs throughout their lifetime."
-Christopher D. Merchant, DDS

Meet the doctor

Christopher D. Merchant, DDS
"We are a team dedicated to creating an environment of compassion, professionalism, and warmth. We strive to make our patients comfortable and healthy through the highest quality of care. We are highly trained and passionate about providing dental care that meets our patients' health and cosmetic needs throughout their lifetime."
-Christopher D. Merchant, DDS
Dr. Merchant grew up in Olympia and has a great affection for all it has to offer, as there is so much to do right outside our doors. He enjoys biking, skiing, and exploring the Puget Sound waterways. He and his wife have two children, and you can often find them driving their children to various activities in their free time. Their kids keep them very busy, and they wouldn't have it any other way!
Experience
Dr. Merchant completed his general practice residency at the Louisiana State University Medical Health Center in New Orleans, Louisiana, where he served as the chief resident for the dental program. He has advanced training in Invisalign® and Botox® cosmetic procedures and participates in continuing education in other fields of dentistry to stay current on the latest advancements. Dr. Merchant is a member of the American Dental Association, the Thurston County Dental Association, and the Washington State Dental Association.
Education
Doctor of Dental Surgery
University of Washington – Seattle, Washington
Bachelor of Arts, Honors Program with International Emphasis
Washington State University – Pullman, Washington
“It is our mission to improve the quality of life and health of our patients. Through trust and honesty, we strive to forge a long-term relationship of oral health and overall well-being with you. I look forward to being a part of your journey!”
-Praveena Velupula, DDS

Meet the doctor

Praveena Velupula, DDS
“It is our mission to improve the quality of life and health of our patients. Through trust and honesty, we strive to forge a long-term relationship of oral health and overall well-being with you. I look forward to being a part of your journey!”
-Praveena Velupula, DDS
Outside of the office, Dr. Velupula loves exploring and enjoys forest bathing, being by the water, and spending quality time with family and friends. She enjoys reading about integrated medicine and is always looking for ways to incorporate that into her quest for wellness! She moved to Olympia after meeting her awesome husband 18 years ago. They have two lovely children together and are so grateful to be raising them in the wonderful Pacific Northwest!
Experience
Dr. Velupula completed a two-year periodontal residency at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. She is a member of DOCS Education and stays focused on staying current with minimal and moderate sedation techniques. She is also an active member of the American Dental Association, the Washington State Dental Association, and the Thurston County Dental Association.
Education
Doctor of Dental Surgery
University of Wales College of Medicine – Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom
"From greeting you with a smile to ensuring you are as comfortable as possible during your appointment, we are here to help you have your best dental care experience yet!"

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6939 Littlerock Rd SW
Suite B
Tumwater, WA 98512
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