James Song, DDS
Dr. James is a firm believer that a genuine smile comes from the heart and a healthy smile requires good, consistent dental care. Selecting the right diet, brushing techniques and knowing how to prevent gum recession and sensitivity all start with home dental care. Dr. James would be happy to meet you and discuss how to improve your dental health!
Dr. James is an engineer at heart and enjoys analyzing systemic effects of a patient's overall mastication. After working as a professional engineer, Dr. James further pursued his interest in dentistry and received his Doctorate of Dental Surgery at Loma Linda University. He found a passion for helping patients with severe grinding and clenching issues. Dr. James focuses on restoring function to the back teeth for healthier chewing habits and front teeth for a beautiful smile working in harmony with jaw muscles.
At Down to Earth Dental, Dr. James is dedicated to coaching patients on cultivating healthy habits that lead to stunning smiles.
Cheyenne Suarez, DMD
Dr. Suarez discovered her passion for dentistry in 2010 as a Sterilization Technician at Down to Earth Dental. She worked as a Dental Assistant at the same office from 2012 to 2019, gaining hands-on experience and a deep appreciation for patient care.
Dr. Suarez earned her Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from Central Washington University in 2019. In 2023, she received her Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine in Downers Grove, Illinois.
Dr. Suarez launched her clinical career treating pediatric patients at a Medicaid-focused office in Illinois, where she developed expertise in family dentistry and behavior management. Her compassionate approach helped young patients feel at ease during their visits – a quality she continues to prioritize in her care. In 2024, Dr. Suarez returned to Washington to be closer to her grandmother and rejoined Down to Earth Dental team as a Dentist.
Dr. Suarez is dedicated to creating a welcoming, anxiety-free environment and treats every patient with the same care and respect she would give her own family. She takes pride in helping patients feel confident, comfortable and cared for.
Arnell Prato, DDS
Dentistry is my passion. My number one goal as a Dentist is to help my patients maintain and improve their dental health. Each person is unique and has individual needs. That's why it’s important for me to carefully listen to each of my patients and understand their immediate concerns. I always give my patients treatment options that take into account their dental health, overall health and financial constraints. This is why patient well-being is so important to me.
I attended The Ohio State University for both my undergraduate education and dental school. I love learning about dentistry and will never stop finding new ways to provide my patients with the best care possible. As part of my continuing education, I’ve taken extensive coursework in implant dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, dental occlusion and bite analysis, oral surgery and pharmacology.
Earlier in my career, I practiced dentistry in Ohio, Louisiana and Canada. Before moving to Washington state, I served the dental needs of the aboriginal people of northern Canada, working in remote, under-served areas of the Arctic. My work there helped develop my "Down to Earth" philosophy, where reliable and long-lasting dental work is the primary goal.
I'm a native of the Philippines, and moved to the U.S. in 1984. When I'm not in the office, you can often find me enjoying the outdoors, visiting farmers markets and cooking.
Erin Kelly
Erin is originally from New Jersey and joined Down to Earth Dental in 2022 as a Treatment Plan Coordinator. In 2024, she was promoted to Office Manager. Erin is passionate about creating positive experiences for every patient and takes pride in supporting their care with compassion and attention to detail. When not at the office, she loves spending time outdoors whether she’s exploring hiking trails or paddleboarding on the water.
Mehak Nadeem
Mehak joined Down to Earth Dental in 2022 as a Dental Hygienist. She shows genuine care for each of her patients, helping them achieve and maintain healthy and beautiful smiles. Her gentle touch and attention to detail keep her patients coming back. Every once in a while, Mehak loves to slow down to enjoy the little moments life offers - as well as taking advantage of the spontaneous ones. She also enjoys traveling, especially to Hawaii.
Edlene
Edlene joined Down to Earth Dental as a Dental Hygienist in 2023. She is a dedicated and compassionate Hygienist with a strong commitment to every patient’s oral health. Edlene is passionate about educating patients on the importance of oral hygiene. She stays current on the latest advancements in dental technology and techniques. Edlene enjoys traveling, exploring exotic destinations and immersing herself in different cultures. She is known around the office for being a corgi enthusiast at heart.
Dana
Dana has been working in the dental field for the last 10 years and joined the Down to Earth Dental team in 2021 as a Treatment Plan Coordinator. She loves dentistry and how each day brings something new. For her, meeting new people and creating genuine patient relationships continues to be her favorite part of her job. Dana is one of the first smiles you see when you visit and is diligent in making sure all her patients are well taken care of and that their experience is positive. She feels fortunate to work with such an amazing team who help and support one another. Dana loves that everyone wants the best for our patients and gives the best patient care. “It makes us a really great team!”
Away from the office, Dana loves to travel and shop. She enjoys nature walks with her dog Mila, decorating for events, cooking and entertaining guests. She also loves spending time with her family and being an aunt to her nieces and nephew. Outside of work, Dana stays busy being a nanny to the newest addition to her family, her twin nieces!
Irada Vilaysane
Irada was born in Oklahoma but raised in Tacoma. She attended Tacoma Dental Assistant School in 2020. Irada was a Dental Assistant for four years before joining Down to Earth Dental in 2024. She is fluent in Thai and Lao. She loves meeting new patients and enjoys getting to really know them. When Irada isn’t assisting with dental procedures, you can usually find her playing softball, on her paddle board at the lake or playing with her dog Enzo.
Rosario Tamayo-Garcia
Rosario is a Treatment Plan Coordinator with over five years of experience helping patients feel comfortable and confident in their dental care. Known for her warm smile and calming presence, she is passionate about making every visit a positive one - especially when it comes to navigating treatment plans and insurance.
Born and raised in Seattle with proud Mexican roots, Rosario is currently studying to become a Dental Hygienist. When she's not at work or school, you'll catch her in the gym, planning her next trip to Mexico, or binge-watching her favorite anime. Rosario speaks Spanish, English and a little Mandarin - just enough to surprise people!
Martha
Martha joined Down to Earth Dental in 2021 as a Sterilization Technician. Through hard work and determination, she finished training and now works as a Dental Assistant. Martha is fascinated by dentistry and loves the opportunity to help people achieve a healthier smile. She is also a licensed cosmetologist which allows her to express her passion for the world of beauty. When she is not working, Martha enjoys spending time with her two cats Stormi and Cassie. You can also find her out with friends, taking in a good movie and trying out new restaurants.
Judith Cariaso
Judith is a dedicated Dental Assistant, known for having a bubbly personality and unwavering commitment to patient care. With a keen ability to listen and understand her patients’ needs, she excels at bringing comfort to those dealing with dental anxiety.
Colleagues often describe Judith as a source of positive energy - someone you can always count on. Her caring nature and hardworking attitude make her a valuable part of the team.
Outside of work, Judith thrives on live music and can often be found enjoying concerts. She loves hitting the gym to stay active and indulging in her passion for reading. In her spare time, Judit enjoys exploring new restaurants and cozy cafes and is always on the lookout for the next great dining experience.
Judith’s vibrant spirit and compassionate approach truly make a difference in our patients’ lives.
Lori Pierce
Lori is our Lead Patient Advocate and has been with Down to Earth Dental since its inception. Prior to this, she worked as a Dental Assistant. Her unique blend of clinical and front office experience gives her the ability to navigate insurance plans and help patients use their coverage effectively. At home, Lori has a husband and three children who she loves to spend all her time with!
Chris Rado
Chris has been with Down to Earth Dental since 2010, overseeing marketing and finance. Prior to this, he was a management consultant and an airline executive. Chris graduated from the University of Notre Dame with a BBA in Finance and Indiana University with an MBA in Marketing and International Business. He spends as much of his free time as possible with his 10- and 9-year-old boys.