Our Staff
Everything you need to know about Thrive Dental Studio!

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Our Mission
Get to Know Dr. Elizabeth Sand
She received her B.S. in Nutrition Science from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2009 and her DDS from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry in 2016. Since finishing school, she has honed her dental expertise working as an associate in Nebraska.
Dr. Sand knew she wanted to start her own practice because she values caring for patients the right way. For her, it’s never about the money – it’s about finding the best, most effective treatment that will contribute to the total well-being of the patient. Dr. Sand believes the best way to prioritize quality over quantity is to take the time to get to know her patients’ individual needs, no matter how long it takes.
When she’s not in the office, Dr. Sand enjoys spending time with her her spouse, Travis, and her son, Quentin. She loves camping and visiting national parks, reading, and trying new recipes.
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Meet the Thrive Dental Studio Team!
Hygienists
Office Staff

What Patients Can Expect
We’ve worked hard to create an environment that is warm and welcoming. When you first visit Thrive Dental Studio, you’ll notice that each member of our team loves what they do, especially when it comes to interacting with patients. You’ll be greeted by our front desk staff, who will answer any of your questions prior to your appointment.
Once you’ve checked in and completed any forms, you’ll be taken back to our operatories, where our hygienists and doctors will be ready for you.
You’ll always have time to share any questions or concerns with your doctor. We’re committed to making sure you fully understand the recommended treatment options and feel empowered to take your health into your own hands.
Office Tech and Amenities

Digital Radiographs
Digital radiography is an advanced form of X-ray technology that takes images that can be viewed instantly on the computer screen. This is great for efficient testing and treatment planning.

Intraoral Cameras
Intraoral cameras are great for capturing images of hard-to-reach areas of your teeth. With this technology, we can get an accurate picture of what’s going on with your smile.
Intraoral Digital Scanner
Our state-of-the-art intraoral digital scanner helps us take highly accurate impressions for a wide range of treatments such as crowns, night guards, partials, Invisalign, and much more! No goopy impressions necessary.
Digital Forms
Thrive Dental Studio has embraced digital technology, providing the convenience of online forms for all our patients, streamlining the paperwork process and making it easier for you to provide necessary information.
Community Outreach
Dr. Sand actively participates with the Nebraska Mission of Mercy on an annual basis. This initiative brings together dental professionals and volunteers to provide much-needed dental care to underserved communities in Nebraska. Get in touch with us to learn more about how we’re serving our community at Thrive Dental Studio!

Ready to Smile?
Theresa Ross
Hygienist
I have been a dental hygienist since 2004, but my adventure in dentistry started well before that. In 1996 I started a work study program in high school as a Dental Assistant. Learning about teeth and watching the doctor help the patient inspired me to want to do more. I started with my prerequisites at Iowa Western community college in Council Bluffs, and also completed the dental assisting program there while working for an orthodontic office. I graduated dental hygiene school from Hawkeye community college Waterloo, then spent 18 years being a dental hygienist in Des Moines before moving back to Omaha.Some of the things I love both about dentistry are helping people heal their mouths, getting people to enjoy their visit with my dental rap parodies, and Dr. Sand’s passion for prevention.If I’m not loving on my two brittanys, Tilly and Stache, I spend my spare time doing creative things like drawing, pottery, or sewing, and riding my bike in the summer.I can’t wait to meet you at your next dental cleaning visit!
Theresa AKA "Notorious HYG"

Jody Mendick
Hygienist
A lot of you are familiar faces, but for our newer patients, my name is Jody. I have served at this location for 39 years and multiple doctors. I come in each day enthused to serve a great community, and I consider so many of you my extended family. Speaking of family, I have 5 wonderful children—Maria, Elizabeth, Caleb, Gabe, and Daniel. My other half, Mike, and I have been married for over 30 years as well. Aside from my longtime career as your hygienist, I enjoy gardening, cooking, enjoying NE weather with a walk, Husker volleyball, reading, and pickleball! If I’ve been serving you for years, it has been my pleasure. If we have yet to meet, I look forward to that day too!
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Karissa Patera
Assistant
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Sara Nemetz
Assistant
I was born and raised in Papillion, NE. Before going on to become a dental assistant, I attended Mercy High School. As of 2024, I have worked as a dental assistant for 12 years. I am currently taking classes on my way toward applying to dental school. I am married and my husband and I have 3 children.
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