Our Founders
Owners of one of the most well known Dental Offices in Reno, Sierra Smiles and now founders of the ATS Northern Nevada Dental Assisting School in Reno, NV; John Bocchi DDS and Jen Bocchi RDH are no strangers to the dental industry. The pair have recognized a need for a Complete Health Shift in the community, and look to lend their expertise to a new era of Dental Assistants who are empowered in using the latest greatest technology dentistry has to offer.
The two have traveled the country to learn the latest dental technologies, including the CEREC machine that using 3D printing technology, has the capacity to complete porcelain crowns and veneers in a single visit. They have taken the extensive knowledge they’ve gathered, and have assembled a team of some of the most seasoned and respected dental professionals in Northern Nevada to mentor you!
Meet Your Mentors
John Bocchi, DDS
Dr. Bocchi is passionate about dentistry and the effect it can have on your whole-body health. This is where complete health dentistry comes to life! He believes in optimizing growth and development for kids and adults to improve breathing, prevent chronic health issues, and make the smiles of his patients’ dreams. Because he believes that you always need to continue learning in order to provide the best care for patients, he has traveled the country to learn the latest dental technologies, including the CEREC machine that completes porcelain crowns and veneers in a single visit.
Emily Minderman
Emily has been in the dental field since 2006 and has worked in both General and Pediatric dentistry. Born and raised in CA, she took up residence in Reno in 2018 and her and her husband love all the outdoor recreation activities that the area has to offer. She feels fortunate to be at Sierra Smiles and takes great pride in providing complete health dentistry to patients.
Kayla Babbitt, DA
I began my journey in the dental field 13 years ago when I decided to follow my newly found passion for teeth and complete dental assisting school. As excited as I was, I never would have guessed where this wonderful journey has taken me. Since graduating in 2009, I have been with Sierra Smiles. This practice has given me the tools to succeed both personally and professionally and I have grown into a leadership role. Sierra Smiles also continues to grow and change with added state-of-the-art technology which is one of the things that makes this career path such a fun and fulfilling choice. Being a dental assistant is truly my passion. There is never a “boring” day. As a dental assistant, it’s our job to make sure the practice runs smoothly; dental assistants are the ultimate team players of the practice and we are always there to help others whether it’s the doctor, a hygienist, a fellow assistant or one of our patients.Growing up, I never saw myself in the dental field, but I am so glad I chose this career. If you are undecided about your career choice I urge you to give dental assisting a shot. I’m happy I did!
