Welcome to Our Practice

Dental Associates of Rhode Island

Welcome! The dental professionals at Dental Associates of Rhode Island are pleased to welcome you to our practice. We want all our patients to be informed decision makers and fully understand any health issues you face. That's why we've developed a website loaded with valuable information about dentistry and dental problems and treatments. We encourage you to visit this site whenever you have a concern about your teeth. Follow us on Instagram or like us on Facebook to learn more about exciting new changes to our practice and receive tips and fun facts related to your oral hygeine and overall health!

Our web site provides you with background about our staff, office hours, insurance policies, appointment procedures, maps, directions to our office in Johnston and other useful information. We know how hectic life can be and are committed to making our practice convenient and accessible. We want you to feel confident that when you choose Dental Associates of Rhode Island, you're working with doctors and other professionals who are qualified, experienced, and caring.

For New Patients:

Before your first visit, please fill out this patient form , which will include COVID-19 screening and Patient Registration details.

Please take a few moments to look through this site to get a better feel for Dental Associates of Rhode Island's capabilities and services. We also invite you to email or call our Dental Associates of Rhode Island office at any time to request an appointment or ask any questions. Thank you.

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Introducing Exciting New Changes:

BOTOX for TMJ and Facial Aesthetics

The Dental Associates of Rhode Island is excited to announce that we are providing Botox and dermal filler treatment to alleviate TMJ pain and tension headaches, smooth out wrinkles and decrease facial lines, and restore volume and fullness to the face! Click *HERE* to learn more.⁣⁣

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Music Therapy

Our office is now incorporating music therapy to ensure that you have the most comfortable, holistic care at our practice. To learn more about Wireless Noise-Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones, click *HERE*. To learn more about the Thursday Tunes, click *HERE*.

Meet our Comfort Dogs!

Meet Olive and Tallulah, our two Therapy Dogs, whom we rescued from Little Rhody Rescue @littlerhodyrescue , a nonprofit dog rescue organization striving to find safe homes for neglected and underprivileged dogs. Olive and Tallulah have been with our family since 2018, comforting and relaxing patients in the office during dental appointments. Nervous for your procedure? You can request to see Olive and Tallulah at your next appointment!

Olive and Tallulah

Click below for more information on Invisalign

Meet Our Staff

Learn Who We Are

  • DR.
    SIMON PUN, DDS
    General Dentist

    Dr. Simon is from Naples, Maryland. He graduated from Syracuse University in 3.5 years with a dual major in Biology and Chemistry. He then attended and received his DDS from New York University College of Dentistry. 

    'Hi, I’m Doctor Simon!  I have been practicing at the Dental Associates of Rhode Island since December 2021, and my favorite part about working here is the warm collaborative atmosphere. The entire office is super lively, almost family-like, with lots of jokes and smiles.  When I am not working, I love going hiking and exploring nature, cooking (I’m a big-time foodie), and spending meaningful time with my family.'

  • DR.
    RUPESH R. UDESHI, DMD
    General Dentist

    Dr. Udeshi is originally from Florida. He earned his dental doctorate from Boston university and completed a one year AEGD at Nova Southeastern University. He also earned a law degree from Mitchell Hamline School of Law.

    “Being a dentist, I love the valuable one-on-one interactions I can establish with my patients. I consider most of my patients my friends, so it is a wonderful treat seeing them everyday. Furthermore, I admire how the staff at the Dental Associates of Rhode Island provide an incredibly supportive network and friendly team environment. I also love practicing in Johnston: I feel like I am part of a large community with a small-town feel of a tightly-knit network. Beyond being a dentist, I like to give back to my community by volunteering within the Rhode Island Disaster Medical Assistance Team’s Medical Reserve Corps. For instance, during COVID-19, I helped organize and distribute PPE for front-line workers and vulnerable populations.

    In my free time, I enjoy hiking, walking in the rain, spending quality time with family, and playing trivia, especially 80’s trivia. I also enjoy cooking, particularly making barbecue (but my nieces might disagree on my self-proclaimed cook status by the state of my burnt nachos). Lastly, I am personally passionate about rescuing animals. I have 2 rescue cats (Murphy and Catmandoo) and 2 rescue dogs (Olive and Tallulah), who are also the therapy dogs at the Dental Associates of Rhode Island!”

  • DR.
    USMAN FAZLI, DMD
    Endodontist

    Dr. Fazli went to Boston University for postgraduate speciality training to specialize in Root Canals, and he is one of the only Root Canal Specialists in the State of Rhode Island who is currently not only a Board Certified Endodontist by the American Board of Endodontics but also a Fellow of the Royal College of Dentists Canada. 

    “Hello and welcome to our office. I am the specialist that no one likes to see unless necessary, as the word “root canal” normally sends shivers down people’s spines. Having said that, you would be pleased to know that I am the root canal specialist for this office and have expertise to perform this procedure with your utmost comfort in mind. I have over ten years of experience practicing Endodontics and have treated thousands of root canals with a very high success rate. I have also served honorably in the United States Army Reserves for over 11 years as a Dental Officer and received numerous recognitions for my services. I will look forward to treating you should you ever need my services.”

  • DR.
    LENA MIROSHNICHENKO, DMD
    General Dentist

    Dr. Helen Miroshnichenko, who goes by Dr. Lena, is a native Rhode Islander who went to URI for her undergraduate degree, and Brown for a Masters in Public Health before graduating from the University of New England College of Dental Medicine in Portland, Maine in 2020. In addition to general dentistry, she is trained by the American Academy of Facial Esthetics to provide Botox, Filler, and Trigger Point Therapy treatment options for patients with esthetic concerns, TMJ pain, and tension headaches.

    She is passionate about providing patients with a comfortable dental experience where they feel supported and empowered to achieve and maintain beautiful, healthy smiles.

    Dr. Lena currently lives in Providence with her French bulldog and enjoys traveling, discovering new restaurants around Rhode Island, and photography.


  • DIANNE ACCETTURO, RDH
    Registered Dental Hygienist

    Dianne has been practicing as a registered dental hygienist for 33 years. She attended U.R.I and obtained a Bachelor's degree in Arts and Science, an Associates degree in Dental Hygiene, an a minor in Education. She also has a degree in Interior design from RISDI.

    “I have been working at Dental Associates of R. I. for 4 years and it truly has been the best four years of my career. Our dental team is my second family.  Everyone is compassionate, caring, enthusiastic, and most of all, so friendly. I love my co-workers and my patients. I am so proud to be part of this great dental team.

    I have lived in Greenville for 20 years. I have had a wonderful husband for 24 years, a step son, and two beautiful daughters that are attending college in the medical field.  My fur baby`s name is Misha, she is my baby girl kitty. Outside the office, my passion is creating and designing. I love boating and our lake life, vacations and most of all, family time!”

  • SUE LEVESQUE, RDH
    Registered Dental Hygienist

    Sue has accrued years of experience in both the medical and dental field since highschool. She attended Mount Pleasant High School’s Health/Science program and interned at RI Hospital doing CNA work in the Pharmacy Dept. After graduating highschool, she worked as a Pharmacy Technician and became a Secretary/Medical Assistant at several Primary Care practices before applying and graduating as a Registered Dental Hygienist in 2012. 

    “I have been a full time hygienist at Dental Associates of RI since 2013. It has been great being a part of a growing family practice. I enjoy coming into work not only for my patients but having great coworkers makes the biggest difference. I am thankful to be part of a practice where everyone wants the best for our patients to feel as connected and invested in each other like a family business, which allows us to provide care like we would to our own family members.

    Outside the office I mainly enjoy spending time relaxing and unwinding, occasionally driving my husband crazy! I have a 22 year old son who makes me so proud, he is smart, funny and so loving. I also have a lab mix who is the daughter I never had, she is sweet and such a love bug.”

  • VICTORIA MEDEIROS, RDH
    Registered Dental Hygienist

    Victoria is a registered dental hygienist who graduated from CCRI in 2014 where she obtained an Associates in Applied Science along with a Local Anesthesia Certificate. Prior to becoming a dental hygienist, she worked at the front desk in dental offices for 8 years, gaining practice administration experience. 

    “I started working at Dental Associates of RI in 2016, where I was filling in temporarily while someone was out. Eventually it became a full time position. I love the people I work with and the team atmosphere we have. I like that we are friendly enough to even get together outside of work from time to time. It’s nice to look forward to seeing the people you work with. 

    A little more about me: I grew up in North Kingstown but currently live in Cranston. I have been married since 2018 and my husband and I have 3 dogs, Zeus, Oliver and King. Outside of work, I enjoy being with family and friends. I spend a lot of my free time on the bay, whether it be at the beach, on our boat, or my family’s jet skis. I enjoy watching football and even attending the occasional game.I also love cooking and traveling!”

  • Sue Miner
    Front Office

    Introducing Sue Miner, a valued member of our team with over 20 years of rich experience. Sue’s professional journey is distinguished by her unwavering commitment to inclusivity, having worked with individuals across the spectrum, from the homeless to CEO’s and NFL Patriot players. Her philosophy is simple yet profound: treat everyone with kindness, respect, and honesty-principles she embodies daily.


    Raised in a small town within a large bustling family, Sue’s approach to both life and work is deeply influenced by her upbringing, ensuring that every interaction is marked by genuine care and integrity. This dedication extends beyond her professional engagements; Sue is also a devoted parent to three and grandparent to six, reflecting her nurturing spirit.

    Sue’s commitment to community service is evident in her impactful work with her past involvement with Operation Stand Down, and initiative supporting our veterans. It’s this blend of professional excellence and community involvement that makes Sue an indispensable part of our team, setting a benchmark for compassion and dedication.

  • Nicola Manfredo
    Dental Assistant

    Hi, I'm Nicola! I have been working at Dental Associates of RI since 2020 and I love the friendly atmosphere! The Doctors are so sweet, caring, and compassionate. It is wonderful enjoying where you work and knowing that you look forward to seeing your coworkers and your patients! I have been a dental assistant since 2014 and I enjoy getting to know my patients and making them feel comfortable. I love sharing stories and life's special moments and providing excellent dental care. In my spare time I love spending time with family and close friends and most of all I love to travel with my husband and my beautiful daughter going to see the most magical places.  

  • Jess Burns
    Dental Hygienist

    Jess has been in the dental field since 2007. Prior to becoming a Hygienist, she worked as a Dental Assistant for Barone Orthodontics. Her love for the dental field grew in the ten years she spent with Barone. After years of juggling bartending & assisting she decided to expand her dental knowledge & attend the Dental Hygiene Program at CCRI. Thanks to her loving husband and supportive family she was able to do so all while being a new mother to a beautiful little girl. Graduating from the program in 2020 was a difficult time but opened many doors within this developing field. It wasn't until April of 2023 she found her home at Dental Associates of RI. 

         'I have been a part time Dental Hygienist here at DDRI for roughly one year now & enjoy the busy flow of the office as well as my co-workers & patients. Being a Hygienist has been a great career path for me. I am a 'people person' & being a hygienist allows me to build a relationship with my patients that makes them feel comfortable coming back. Educating them on their oral hygiene takes up most of the visit but is extremely important and eye opening to most people which in turn is very rewarding at the end of the day.'

          'Outside of the office I have a beautiful 7-year-old daughter named Bianca along with my sweet & kind stepdaughter Sophia, 2 dogs, 2 cats, a bearded dragon & amazing husband who works a ton to support all of his girls' needs. Fitness & softball are my hobbies along with long walks with my dogs and shopping with my mini. I love to cook and spend time with my family. We recently built an inground pool and plan to spend my summers poolside. '

  • Bethany Rocchio
    Dental Hygienist

    Bethany made the transition to the dental field in
    2016, after receiving her Applied Science Degree in Dental Hygiene. Making
    sure every patient feels comfortable and at ease, she keeps the office
    atmosphere light and fun and works closely with her patients to provide the
    ultimate care, while educating them on the importance of oral health. Bethany
    is also licensed to administer local anesthesia. Bethany grew up in
    Cranston but currently lives in East Providence. In her downtime, Bethany enjoys
    working on projects throughout her home, hitting the gym and hanging out with
    her two fur babies Charlie and Cypress. 

Testimonials

What Our Clients Say About Us

  • "This was our first time coming to this office after my friend recommended them. The office is peaceful, friendly, very clean and follows covid protocols. The staff is extremely friendly and knowledgeable. My husband is not a fan of the dentist & at one point I heard him laughing (his hygienist was Jaime). Something that small made me feel good about his experience. My hygienist Diane was so great. She was helpful, friendly and made the appointment go smoothly. They even have therapy dogs! I’m not one to write reviews but I can’t praise this office enough just after my 1st visit. I would highly recommend them!!"
    Naomi Z
  • "Would you believe me if I said I nearly feel asleep as I was getting my teeth cleaned!?? That's how gentle and careful my service was! I believe my dental hygienist name was Victoria and she was amazing! So friendly and informative. Everyone in the office was kind and I appreciated the extra care taken to ensure the office was clean and sanitary. Best dental experience!"
    Briana P
  • "Everyone here is so friendly and helpful. I had been avoiding dental work because of COVID anxiety, and then I lost a filling. A friend recommended Dental Associates of RI, and I couldn’t put off the work. They’ve set up their office and protocol so smartly. The space is quite large and laid out in a way that feels safe. I got my filling replaced (beautifully), went back for a long overdue cleaning, and am now having a new partial developed to replace a very old one. It’s definitely the friendliest dental office I’ve been to!"
    Jennifer B
  • "I was referred here by a colleague and thank goodness! They got me in to see the doc literally within a week when all other places were giving me almost a month before I was seen. The hygienist (Sue) was lovely and so knowledgeable and I feel so sad that I’ll be moving from the area soon! If I could give them more stars I would. They’re professional, so thoroughly clean, and take all the precautions without making you feel weird. 10/10 would recommend! Thank you for giving me such great dental care!"
    Sara H
  • "High quality work for fair cost with no pain. Can you imagine leaving the dentist after a root canal and saying I had a good time? Twice I left happy to have met the nice folks I did. I went here hoping for a good experience and a regular dentist for routine care as well as a crown, but found the most outstanding dental services ever! The whole office is the friendliness medical staff I have ever encountered. I have seen 3 of the dentists so far and they all are super nice and always concerned for the patient's comfort. Some are funny in that corny dad joke way. I am completely phobic of the dentist so they dropped a cute doggy in my lap to help me calm down for my first procedure. They are on time for my appointments and explain the billing when I have questions. They help me find appointments that will work in my schedule. Just totally awesome all around!"
    Kathryn P
  • "I have nothing but positive things to say about Dental Associates of RI. The office staff is super friendly and welcome me as soon as I walk in the office! They always make sure I am comfortable and ask if I would like anything to drink before even seeing the hygienist or Doctor. I am a very anxious patient and have had many procedures there. The doctors have always taken their time to explain what they were doing. They were very kind and made sure I was calm and understood the procedure, while also listening to my concerns. I have never felt rushed. The Therapy dogs, Olive and Tallulah, are so super sweet! I have spent some time with both! When checking out, the office staff are always clear about payment and questions. They are so easy to talk to and always so friendly."
    Jen M
  • "Found this dental office through Google. Great team of dental workers. Had a previous dental appointment that work recommended through their dental plan. They told me I couldn't get in until September when it was February. Then they called to say they moved the time of that appointment by leaving a message. That was the branch that actually picked up the phone. Naturally decided to go somewhere else. Called dental associates and they said they could see me that same day if I wanted.. ended up getting an appointment two days later. My choice. They were excellent in every aspect and approached every issue I was having. Made a well thought out plan and moving forward with out almost any wait time. This is the place. Their professionalism is unmatched."
    Anonymous
  • "This was my first time visiting and I’m so happy to be a patient here! The entire staff was so friendly and the office is super clean. I met Tallulah the therapy dog while I was there and it made my entire day 😊 highly recommend this office!"
    Amanda R
  • "The best experience from start to finish. From the the first phone call I made to the office through my visit, the staff was professional, efficient, and extremely pleasant!! The office was immaculate! The receptionists kept the office flowing smoothly and we're very helpful. My hygienist was upbeat, funny and meticulous. Like many people I'm not a big fan of going to the dentist, but right away she put me at ease.
    My dentist was thorough, answered all my questions, but wasn't pushy about my treatment options. It was such a great experience, that I'm actually looking forward to my next dental visit. Thank you!!"
    Donna D
  • "The staff at Dental Associates of RI always make my family and I feel comfortable -- from Dr. Udeshi who I have seen for at least 10 years, Sue my dental hygienist who I have seen for about the same period, and Michelle who has been involved with my replacement (permanent) bridge and crowns. I never had a problem that was not painlessly taken care of. Whenever a dental problem came up for anyone in the family, we were always promptly seen."
    Thomas M
  • "Great Dentist! I was always afraid until one day I heard of this office, I must say I'm not scared anymore! Very clean and all the employees are great. I would recommend to anyone."
    Derek P (Lincoln, RI)
  • "I have been to many dentist offices and this is one of the best. The staff is friendly and the past few times I have been here I was taken right in for my cleaning with no wait in the waiting room. The office and dental supplies are clean and they do a great job with my cleaning (they definitely don't rush you out of the chair). I definitely recommend this dental office!"
    Brittany P (North Providence, RI)
  • "Professional and Friendly, the staff here is fantastic. Despite my late arrival, The staff was understanding and gave me the time needed to do a great job. When I asked for something to be adjusted to be more comfortable, the dentist worked until I felt perfectly comfortable. Each visit has been a very good experience!"
    Shelly K (Providence, RI)

Featured Articles

Read about helpful topics

  • Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Patient

    Patient Rights You have a right to choose your own dentist and schedule an appointment in a timely manner. You have a right to know the education and training of your dentist and the dental care team. You have a right to arrange to see the dentist every time you receive dental treatment, subject to ...

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  • Crowns and Bridges

    Bridges Bridges are natural-looking dental appliances that can replace a section of missing teeth. Because they are custom-made, bridges are barely noticeable and can restore the natural contour of teeth as well as the proper bite relationship between upper and lower teeth.Bridges are sometimes referred ...

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  • Veneers

    Teeth that are badly stained, shaped, or crooked may be improved by a veneer placed on the surface of the affected teeth.Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain or plastic cemented over the front of your teeth to change their color or shape. Veneers are used on teeth with uneven surfaces or that are chipped, ...

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  • Invisalign®

    Invisalign's® invisible, removable, and comfortable aligners will give you the beautiful straight teeth you've always wanted. And best of all, no one can tell you're wearing them. Invisalign® is great for adults and teenagers. What is Invisalign®? Invisalign® is the invisible way to straighten your ...

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  • April 2022 Dental Newsletter

    The Importance of Preventive Care: Maintaining Good Oral Health Preventative dental care is a significant part of overall dental health, but it's often an afterthought. Our dedicated dentist sees many patients who don’t keep up with consistent preventative oral care and then must fix the problems ...

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  • Fillings

    Frequently asked questions: dental fillings Are dental amalgams safe? Is it possible to have an allergic reaction to amalgam? Is it true that dental amalgams have been banned in other countries? Is there a filling material that matches tooth color? If my tooth doesn't hurt and my filling is still in ...

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  • Sealants

    Sealants are liquid coatings that harden on the chewing surfaces of teeth and are showing a great deal of effectiveness in preventing cavities—even on teeth where decay has begun. The pits and grooves of your teeth are prime areas for opportunistic decay. Even regular brushing sometimes misses these ...

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  • Overview

    Pain can occur in any number of places in your mouth: teeth, gums, roots, the palate, tongue and jaw. Cavities are a common culprit causing pain. Untreated cavities can impact nerves because of infections of the tooth and gums. Impacted and abscessed teeth and sore jaws from teeth grinding are other ...

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  • Toothaches

    Simple toothaches can often be relieved by rinsing the mouth to clear it of debris and other matter. Sometimes, a toothache can be caused or aggravated by a piece of debris lodged between the tooth and another tooth. Avoid placing an aspirin between your tooth and gum to relieve pain, because the dissolving ...

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  • Scaling and Root Planing

    Some cases of acute periodontal (gum) disease that do not respond to more conventional treatment and self-care such as flossing may require a special kind of cleaning called scaling and root planing. The procedure begins with administration of a local anesthetic to reduce any discomfort. Then, a small ...

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Contact Us

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Our Location

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Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

9:00 am-6:00 pm

Tuesday:

7:00 am-6:00 pm

Wednesday:

7:00 am-6:00 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-1:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed