Meet the Dental Team – Naples, FL

Serving You Exceptional
Dentistry Every Visit

When dental patients walk through our doors, the first things they always see are the smiles on our Naples dental team’s faces. They’re a big reason our patients feel right at home every time they come to see us. Each one has years of experience in the dental field, and they are completely committed to making sure your appointments are always well-organized and flow efficiently. To start getting to know our wonderful Island Coast Dentistry team, read on below!

Jackie,
CDA – Office Manager

Naples dental office manager Jackie

Jackie joined our team in April 2012 and feels truly blessed to be part of a practice that values integrity, compassion, and exceptional care to every patient.

Her journey in dentistry began in 1978 when she earned her Dental Assisting Certification. She later became a Certified Orthodontic Assistant in 1997 and completed training in Implantology assisting. Over the years, Jackie has gained extensive experience in all areas of dentistry-both clinical and administrative. Thus, allowing her to confidently assist patients with their dental and financial needs.

Jackie first joined our office as a Dental Assistant, transitioned to Financial Coordinator in 2016, and has served as our dedicated Office Manager since 2017. She is passionate about fostering strong relationships with our patients and works with Dr. Skupny to ensure our shared vision of excellence is consistently met. You’ll often be greeted by Jackie with her warm smile and joyful personality, which perfectly reflects her genuine care and professionalism.

Born and raised in Tampa, Jackie is married to her soulmate, Daniel, who proudly served 22 years in the US Coast Guard. Their journey together has taken them across the country- Florida, Virginia, New York, Alaska and Puerto Rico-enriching Jackie’s diverse dental settings. They are proud parents of three daughters and four grandchildren. Outside the office, Jackie enjoys, camping, cruising, raising backyard chickens, sewing, and being an active member of Orangetree Bible Church in Naples.

Suzie,
CRDH – Dental Hygienist

Dental hygienist Suzie

Suzie joined this dental office in 1995 and feels very blessed to be able to provide excellent care for our patients.

Suzie began her career in dentistry in 1974 as a dental assistant. She graduated in 1977 from Palm Beach State College as a Registered Dental Hygienist. She practiced Dental Hygiene in Eagle River, Alaska for nine years before moving back to Naples.

Suzie is certified by the State of Florida to administer local anesthetic. She has advanced education in periodontal therapy from the University of Florida and continues to attend countless hours of continuing education each year. Suzie strives to help our patients obtain and maintain optimal dental health in the most gentle and caring manner possible using the latest techniques.

Suzie is past president of the Collier County Dental Hygiene Association, past President of the Alaska Dental Hygiene Association, and served five years on the advisory board of the dental hygiene program at Anchorage Community College.

Suzie grew up on Marco Island and enjoys swimming, gardening, and reading. She has been married since 1983 to Mike (Ben) Benfield, and they have two grown sons. The oldest is married, has a daughter born in 2016, a son born in 2019 and lives in Nashville, TN. Their younger son and his wife live in Milner, GA and have a daughter born Jun 2024.

Suzie and Ben are active members of their church where she is a board member of the St. Ann CCW. The greatest joy of their lives are their grandchildren.

Lucinda,
CRDH – Dental Hygienist

Dental hygienist Lucinda

Lucinda joined our team in June of 2017. She feels incredibly grateful to be a part of such a wonderful dental office.

Lucinda is a 2005 graduate from FL Gulf Coast University with a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice/Forensic Science. In 2015, she returned to school to pursue a career in Dental Hygiene. Lucinda graduated in 2017 as a Certified Registered Dental Hygienist from FL Southwestern State College. She graduated as Valedictorian of her class.

Lucinda is certified by the State of Florida to administer local anesthetic. She is an active member of the Florida Dental Hygiene Association, as well as serving on the Dental Hygiene Advisory Board at FSW for the past two years. Lucinda participates in numerous continual education courses each year to enable her to provide the best dental care for our patients. Her bubbly personality is her greatest attribute.

Jennifer,
CRDH – Dental Hygienist

Dental hygienist Jennifer

Jennifer was born and raised in Naples. She is married to her husband, Steve, and have two daughters. Jennifer and Steve enjoy spending their free time fishing, boating, traveling and spending quality time with their daughters.

Jennifer grew up surrounded by dentistry. Her father was a practicing dentist in Naples in the 1960’s. During the summers in high school, she began her first work experiences in the dental office, which was being trained by her father to assist him in the operatory. This is where she got to see first hand how rewarding it was to help people and that working with her hands was something that she enjoyed.

In 1991, she graduated from the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta, Georgia. Upon graduating, she had the opportunity of working for over 10 years in a well-known periodontal practice in Naples, in addition, to having the pleasure of working as dental hygienist along side her father in his Naples practice. These early experiences provided a multitude of valuable knowledge, skills and work ethics that she attributes to furthering her dental career over the years. Jennifer continues to attend and participate in a variety of continuing education courses each year in order to best serve her patients while balancing her role of raising her two teenage daughters.

Jennifer joined our team in January 2019 and feels blessed to have this opportunity to work such an amazing and talented office who strive for excellence.

Sally,
RDH – Dental Hygienist

Dental assistant Sally

Sally joined our practice in September of 2024. She is a Naples native who received her Bachelor of Science in dental hygiene from the University of Colorado Health Science Center in 2003. Following graduation, she returned to Florida and worked as a dental hygienist in Bonita Springs for many years.

Sally not only enjoys her role in the treatment and prevention of gum disease, but also in helping patients achieve a healthy mouth to contribute to their total body health and long-term wellness. She values building trust and relationships with her patients as they work toward and maintain their mutual goals.

Her family includes her husband, Kelly, of over fifteen years and her three school-aged children. Sally’s hobbies include running, playing tennis and golf, fishing, and volunteering at her church, Center Point Community Church.

Denise,
Dental Assistant, CDA

Dental assistant Lelja

Denise joined our team in July 2025 and feels excited for the opportunity to continue her dental assisting career in such a prestige office. Denise is from Paterson, New Jersey and has a vibrant story marked by dedication and personal growth. Moving to her current location in 1995, she has established roots and built a fulfilling life. In January 2023, Denise embarked on a new professional journey as a Certified Dental Assistant, demonstrating her commitment to healthcare and helping others. She desires to further strengthen her expertise in the field.

At home, Denise shares her life with her two school-age children, a son and a daughter. They are the cornerstone to her life and happiness. When she isn’t working or caring for her family, Denise has a passion for travel and loves spending time at the beach, enjoying both relaxation and adventure. Her story reflects a balance of professional aspiration, family devotion, and love for exploration, making her a well-rounded and inspiring team member.

Lejla,
CDA – Dental Assistant

Dental assistant Lelja

Lejla received her dental assistant certification in 2004 and has been working in the dental field ever since. After living in the Chicago land area for 20 years, she moved to Naples in 2020. She enjoys going to the beach with her family, gardening, and reading a good book.