Meet Our Team


There is not a day that I do not receive compliments about how outstanding my team is! I am so privileged and proud to be working by the side of my work family. Every woman in this office is my dear friend, teacher and trusted right hand. Together these amazing women are truly one of the secrets to the success of the practice.

Although we look young… wink….as of  2020 our combined experience in the dental field is 190 Years!!!

Our team is our strongest asset! Our knowledge in orthodontics is unrivaled, and we will always strive to exceed your expectations.

Meet Dr. Shems

Janet – Practice Manager


I have proudly worked alongside Dr. Shems for several years now. I appreciate her conservative and personal approach to orthodontics, and I think patients do as well! As Practice Manager, I am here to make sure your experience with us is top notch. I’m always available to discuss finances, schedule appointments, and answer any questions about your orthodontic treatment. Our goal is for every patient to receive quality care based on their individual needs.

I have two grown children, Taylor and Nick, and a dog named Vinny. I am fortunate that they both live close by. I spend my free time with my family and friends, and I love summers in Maine! I enjoy being on the lake, ocean, boating, waterskiing and snow skiing.


Penny – Clinical Assistant & Lab Technician


I became a huge fan of orthodontics when I found myself as an orthodontic patient! I realized the positive impact that having a great smile had on my self-esteem. I wanted to be part of making others just as happy! I’ve been in the orthodontic field for just over 21 year. I’m a clinical assistant and a lab technician. I make all of our patients’ retainers and other appliances in our in-house lab and am also a trained orthodontic assistant. I love seeing the smile on a patient’s face when their braces come off! I’m a bit quiet, but I get the job done.

I love my job, and when I’m not working, you may find me out kayaking, walking/hiking, riding my mountain bike or my spin bike.


Shannon – Treatment Coordinator & Senior Orthodontic Assistant


I’m Shannon and I’ve been an orthodontic assistant for over 20 years!  I have spent most of my orthodontic career with Dr. Shems…15 years!! I live in Lewiston with two of my five children, Emma and Ezra, and our two dogs Jazzy and Hercules.

My oldest son lives and goes to school in Hawaii, my middle son is married and lives in Durham and works at BIW.  My third child is a girl who is currently working at Paychex.

When I’m not working, I enjoy everything from going to church, hiking and spending time with family and friends.


Carolyn – Clinical Supervisor


After growing up in Massachusetts, I began my career in orthodontics fifteen years ago while living in Florida. Since making my way back to New England in 2012, I am so fortunate to have continued my journey with Dr. Shems in an office which provides top-notch care to every patient. My goal is to use my knowledge and skills to provide exceptional orthodontic care in a comfortable, professional environment. I feel blessed to be a part of each patient’s journey in achieving a healthy, beautiful smile they can be proud of.

When I am not in the office, I enjoy spending time with my family and fur babies. I also love to be outdoors, especially in the garden. On rainy days, I test my skills in the kitchen cooking favorite dishes and trying new recipes.


Marie – Orthodontic Assistant


I have 34 years of experience in the dental field. I find it rewarding working with patients of all ages to give them a beautiful smile. In my spare time, I enjoy cooking, baking, knitting, going to the gym and exploring the coastline of Maine.


Danielle – Financial Coordinator


I am so grateful to work alongside Dr. Shems and her amazing team. I have several years experience in the orthodontic field. I am here to help patients with the financial process. I desire to make it as easy and seamless as possible. One of the most rewarding parts of working in the orthodontic field is helping patients achieve the beautiful smile they have dreamed of.

When I am not at work, I enjoy spending my time with my family and all of my fur babies. My son Noah is four years old and he loves to be outside any chance he gets. We enjoy going hiking, fishing, off roading and camping in the summertime. Our favorite part of summer is going to get a sweet treat at Sweeties Ice Cream on the four wheeler.