Education
B.S. from Pacific Lutheran University
D.D.S from Loma Linda University
John Nelsen, DDS
Dr. John grew up in Washington state. He received his Bachelor of Science degree at Pacific Lutheran University and earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Loma Linda University School of Dentistry. It was there where he first laid eyes on Dr. Missy. They were married and graduated together in 1999, returning to Chico to start this practice in 2000. Dr. John's greatest dental passion is creating beautiful and functional smiles. He enjoys all aspects of dentistry and considers himself blessed to care for patients and is grateful for the trust they put in him to care for their smiles.
When out of the office, Dr. J is involved in his church and community. He enjoys keeping up with their 3 growing boys; together, they enjoy mountain biking, wake surfing, or water & snow skiing.
Missy Nelsen, DDS
Dr. Missy grew up here in Chico and earned her BA in Liberal Studies with an emphasis in Biology at Pacific Union College. She met Dr. John on the first day of dental school at Loma Linda University, and the rest is history! She is so excited to be a female dentist back in Chico, practicing together with John & raising their three boys. She loves being a mother and is very involved with the boy's school and church. She loves practicing dentistry, especially her patients, and she adores seeing most of the kids in the practice. She, too, is committed to providing you with the highest quality of dental care and looks forward to building lifelong relationships with you and your family. When they are not working, you'll find her playing tennis, running, snow skiing, or playing at the lake with friends and family.
Education
B.S. from Pacific Union College
D.D.S from Loma Linda University
Education
B.S. from Southwestern Adventist College
D.D.S from Loma Linda University
Tommy Farris, DDS
Dr. Tommy grew up in East Texas and graduated from Southwestern Adventist College with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. He received a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Loma Linda University, followed by a certificate in Hospital Dentistry from the University of Alabama Birmingham. Before relocating to Chico in 2006, he lived and practiced in Asheville, North Carolina where he met his wife Dani. They have two grown sons who also live in Chico.
Dr. Tommy has a passion for all things creative, and especially appreciates the opportunity to apply that through dentistry. He considers it a privilege to provide the highest level of care to his patients. When outside the office, he enjoys spending time with his family, Jeep adventures, RC airplanes, and creative 3d printer and laser cutting projects
We have earned the reputation of Chico's Best Dental Office for a reason. You will not find a more educated or loving group of people who are more passionate about their work, their patients, each other, or life.... We love what we do, and it shows! We are excited to introduce you to this extraordinary group of people:
Jamie
Office Administrator
I was born and raised in Chico, and I can't imagine a better place to grow up! I graduated from Chico State in 2004 with a B.A. in Social Science and decided to stay and work in town. Being a patient at Nelsen Family Dentistry, I've always admired what a pleasant and friendly office it was. I was lucky enough to be employed by them in 2008, and I haven’t looked back! It's a pleasure to work with a group of people who are ethical and caring and always put their patients first!
Mel
Office Administrator
I was born and raised in Paradise, California. I graduated from Chico State with a bachelor's degree in business and human resources. Due to the Paradise campfire, my journey in life led me to the dental field at NFD in 2019. Fulfilling patients' needs and handling dental care are now passions that I admire. It’s a great feeling when our patients say they are excited to come to the dentist! NFD does a great job of making everyone feel like family. Especially now living in Chico, I continue to love the small-town vibe, the services we provide, and the care we can give to our patients. Life is so short that I promise you will always catch me with a smile. Happiness is everything, and I enjoy life by spending it with friends, family, and loved ones.
susan
Office Administrator
I have been in the dental field for more than twenty years. Being part of Nelsen Family Dentistry since 2005 has been a pleasure. To work with a professional, caring team whose goal is to change the lives of each and every patient is a unique and delightful experience. As your dental insurance and financial coordinator, it is my job to make sure that the dental health of you and your family comes first!
veronica
Office Administrator
I was born and raised in Chico. I am grateful to be an asset to the Nelsen Family Dentistry team! Being new to the dental world, my coworkers have made it very easy and comfortable to transition into my position of office administration. Outside of the office, I love to spend time with my fiancé and two dogs, Gus and Tux! We love to adventure around town, be it at the beach or on the mountain snowboarding.
michelle
Hygienist
I have been a dental hygienist in Chico for quite a few years now. I have worked here at Nelsen Family Dentistry since 2002 and absolutely love it! Being a dental hygienist is a very rewarding career and provides many opportunities for my patients and myself. Experiencing the importance of good oral health with my patients is fabulous and fulfilling. I enjoy spending time with my husband and 2 sons. We love to camp, play sports and enjoy traveling. My goal here at Nelsen Family Dentistry is to make each of your dental appointments a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Hope to see you soon!
nikki
Hygienist
I feel so fortunate to still love what I do after twenty-plus years in dentistry! I started as a sterile tech, then assisted, and then went on to the University of Colorado, earning my B.S. in Dental Hygiene. Dentistry has provided a fantastic opportunity to serve people, teach, grow wonderful relationships and, most of all, be a part of the patient's journey towards health. I am grateful to have landed in an amazing office that values the same and where there is proof that you can love what you do and have a fantastic time doing it. I have been here since 2012 and loved every minute. In my off time, you will find me on a trail, at the gym or in the garden enjoying the little things.
kelsie
Hygienist
I have been practicing dental hygiene since 2008 and was fortunate enough to become a part of the Nelsen Family Dentistry team in 2013. When working, I believe that I am the tool to help my patients become aware of their oral health status and collaborate with them to obtain optimal oral hygiene while creating happy, beautiful smiles. I strive to always maintain a welcoming, caring, and gentle environment. When not working, I enjoy spending time with my family, running, cooking, gardening and reading.
rachael
Hygienist
I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of such a positive and loving team since 2018. I have been practicing dental hygiene in the Chico area since 2007. I love building relationships with my patients while collaborating with them to find the answers to their dental health concerns. Working for Nelsen Family Dentistry has given me the freedom to grow in the dental profession while being fully supported by amazing people. During my downtime I enjoy yoga, camping, rugby and spending time with friends and family. I have three children, all grown and living their best lives. I’m looking forward to meeting you all soon!
briar
Hygienist
I am truly honored to be part of Nelsen Family Dentistry since 2018. I was born and raised in Chico but decided to spread my wings and complete dental hygiene school in the Bay Area. A couple of years after I graduated, life brought me back to Chico. I couldn’t have found a better place to work. I truly enjoy the patients and every single person I work with. The office environment is so fun, and good music is always playing. I knew it was meant to be the moment I walked in and heard Chris Stapleton. What the Nelsens have created is truly something special.
shawna
RDAEF Dental Assistant Extended Functions
I have been a Registered Dental Assistant since 2006. In 2010, I had the wonderful opportunity to join Nelsen Family Dentistry. I am so thankful to be part of a great office surrounded by amazing people I have grown to love. My passion for caring for and helping others makes this career very rewarding, and working here, I have been supported and encouraged to continue my education. I am finishing my Extended Functions certification and am excited to be practicing with these phenomenal doctors. Walking in, people notice the caring atmosphere we have here for each other and for our patients. It's a pretty special place.
Lindsay
RDAEF Dental Assistant Extended Functions
I am one lucky girl! I had the opportunity right out of school to join this fantastic group of talented people in 2013. Nelsen Family Dentistry allowed me to ask questions; they patiently taught me and motivated me. The team has inspired me to become the best possible registered dental assistant I could be and is supporting me as I continue to advance my education with Extended Functions certification. My drive to succeed and this well-rounded, knowledgeable staff have allowed me to grow and achieve more than I have ever expected. I can say without a doubt that I love what I do, and I am proud to be a member of Nelsen Family Dentistry. I hope you, too, can join our family!
brittany
RDAEF Dental Assistant Extended Functions
I was born and raised in Chico, and love it here! I've been a registered dental assistant since 2008 and had the great opportunity of joining the Nelsen Family Dentistry family in 2010. Being a registered dental assistant has been very rewarding for me. All the staff here are caring and fun to work with, and I enjoy working with all of them! I love that they support me & help encourage me to realize my dreams of continuing my education as I finish my Extended Function certificate. I love working with people, especially being a part of and seeing the results that cosmetic dentistry can have for our patients. Changing someone's smile can change their life! The compassion we have towards our profession and our patients makes me look forward to coming to work each day.
chelsea
Registered Dental Assistant
I am so very lucky to be a part of such a fun and caring team! I became a patient at NFD in 2012. The compassion the office had towards me as a patient made me want to become part of the dental field. I then graduated from RDA school in 2014, and was excited to join this team in 2017. When I’m not assisting, I love adventuring outside, traveling, hiking with my dog Kash, as well as spending time with family and friends. I look forward to my work every day and love assisting our patients.
kalah
Registered Dental Assistant
I grew up in Paradise, California. In my free time, I love adventuring the outdoors with my husband and two dogs. When we’re not in the mountains, we’re spending time with our close family and friends. I am so blessed to be a part of such an amazing team here at Nelsen Family Dentistry since 2020, and I feel so lucky that they hired me right out of the RDA program. I was seeking a family-friendly environment in which to start my career, and that is exactly what I found here. I couldn’t be happier!
maddie
Registered Dental Assistant
I grew up all over Northern California and Southern Oregon. I graduated from Las Plumas high school in 2022 and already knew that I wanted to be in the dental field. I went straight into the ROP Dental assisting program and graduated in May of 2023 with my license. Shortly after I was then hired by Nelsen Family Dentistry and was given the opportunity to learn and grow in the dental field. In my free time you will find me in the mountains with my pup or spending time with my friends and family. I feel so lucky to be part of such a helpful and loving office. I’m looking forward to many years to come with that wonderful team.
Take the first step toward a healthier, brighter smile by booking your appointment with Nelsen Family Dentistry today! Whether you need a routine cleaning, cosmetic enhancement, or specialized dental care, our experienced team in Chico, CA, is here to provide personalized treatment in a comfortable and welcoming environment. Don’t wait—schedule your visit now and experience the exceptional care you deserve!
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