Team HFD

Dr. Hai Yan Gaw (D.D.S, M.S)
Dr. Gaw grew up in the city of New York where she attended the City College of New York. Dr. Gaw received her Master of Science degree in Biology with concentration in Oral Biology from New York University. She then obtained her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Maryland Baltimore College of Dental Surgery. She completed a general practice residency at New York Presbyterian Queens Hospital where she gained valuable experiences in management of dental trauma, oral surgery and many aspects of general dentistry. She has co-authored in published articles, one of which discusses about bacteria in oral cavity and dental caries. Dr. Gaw is committed to improving oral health of her patients and expanding her knowledge through continuing dental education courses. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling and exploring new places with her family. She is blessed to have a husband and 2 daughters who love to eat as much as she does.
I have worked with Dr. Rung since 1996. As our office manager, I enjoy meeting new people and developing personal relationships with them. Over the years, many of our patients have become my good friends! Each person on our team feels like an extended member of my family. We work well together and enjoy each other’s company.I’m married with two children and four grandchildren. I love playing golf and anything to do with the outdoors.
Susan Lee (Office Manager)
Karen (Registered Dental Hygienist / Lead)
Karen has been treating patients at this location for over 33 years. She graduated from Fones School of Dental Hygiene at the University of Bridgeport in 1989.. Karen is also a 500 hour certified yoga instructor. She prides herself on the ability to combine these two loves to help the patients feel less stressed, comfortable and at ease during their dental visit. "Each patient is a part of the family-like atmosphere in the office and I have enjoyed the relationships I have built with each patient." In her free time, Karen enjoys practicing yoga, reading, cooking, walking, hiking, traveling and spending time with her husband, daughter and son.
Dana is a highly experienced dental hygienist with over 30 years in the field. A proud graduate of the Fones School of Dental Hygiene at the University of Bridgeport, Dana has dedicated her career to delivering compassionate, patient-centered care. She is known for her gentle touch, meticulous attention to detail, and unwavering commitment to helping patients achieve healthy, confident smiles.Beyond the dental chair, Dana leads an active lifestyle—she enjoys running, biking, and golfing. She cherishes time spent with her husband, Mike, and is a devoted mother to two sons, Trevor and Kyle, who continue to inspire and support her every day.
Dana Cleary (Registered Dental Hygienist)
Shirley (Registered Dental Hygienist)
Shirley graduated from Tunxis Community college in 1983. Shirley has over 40 years of experience and knows that it is vital to our success to build a foundation of trust by treating you as an individual. Her goal is to provide you with the best comprehensive patient care with your comfort in mind.Shirley’s favorite thing is to travel and spend time with her husband and two daughters.
With over 20 years of experience in the dental field, Debbie is a dedicated and compassionate dental assistant committed to providing exceptional patient care. She not only brings a deep understanding of clinical procedures, but ensures patient comfort with her touch of comedy to every appointment. Her calm presence helps ease patient anxiety. From assisting in complex procedures to managing sterilization protocols and patient education, she is an essential part of our dental family.Debbie is well known for being a devoted Tennessee Titans fan. She enjoys going to Myrtle Beach, SC every year and spending time with her family.
Debbie (Certified Dental Assistant)
Aylin (Certified Dental Assistant)
Aylin has been a dental assistant for five years after graduating from Porter and Chester Institute. She is an integral part of our dental team filling in multiple roles as a dental assistant and a front desk receptionist. She is skilled in chairside assisting, sterilization, digital imaging, and patient education. Being an eyelash cosmetician, she brings out a meticulous and gentle touch to dentistry. Aylin, with her warm smile and calm demeanor, ensures each patient in the chair is comfortable and less anxious.Aylin enjoys going on cruises with her family and spending time with her son, JJ.
With over 12 years of experience in the patient care industry, Nicole brings a compassionate and knowledgeable presence to our front office. Formerly a dental assistant, she has a deep understanding of both clinical and administrative aspects of care, which allows her to support patients with confidence and empathy. Nicole helps create a warm, supportive environment where every patient feels welcome and cared for.Outside the office, Nicole enjoys staying active and spending quality time with her family. She loves going out, traveling, and hiking whenever she gets the chance.
Nicole Perrone (Patient Coordinator)