Tarah Crews, D.M.D
It is a bitter-sweet time for the team at Healthy Smiles of St. Louis as Dr. Flavin’s retirement is nearing. I have had the great opportunity of being mentored by Dr. Flavin for almost 8 years. He has been an integral part in shaping the dentist I am today by opening my eyes to the great world of dentistry and patient care. Dr. Flavin’s passion for continuing education, helping our dental family, and, of course, the joys of chocolate chip cookies has taken root and has become primary components of my core values as well.
For those of you who do not know me well, my name is Tarah Crews. I have been practicing dentistry for 9 wonderful years. I love dentistry and have so much fun providing care! I am very passionate about continuing education and will always be advancing in my field to provide the best care for my family of patients. I believe in total body health and the oral systemic connection. Dentists are lucky to have the privilege of seeing patients multiple times a year, which gives us the best opportunity to prevent disease, stop disease progression, and create a beautiful, confident smile.
I find dentistry to be so exciting because it is constantly evolving and there are multiple disciplines you can gravitate towards. I love the esthetic realm of dentistry involving invisalign, Botox, crowns and veneers. Giving patients a smile they can be proud of fills my cup. Creating harmony between the teeth, joints, and muscles is essential to providing long lasting and predictable care. The positive side effect of this is most often a positive change in esthetics, and a more confident person.
Lifelong learning and community outreach is a vital part of what makes me the dentist I am today. I learn everyday from every situation, and devote many hours every year to advancing my knowledge and skills as a dentist. And without my community I could not do the thing I love, provide quality patient care. I am a member of the Greater St. Louis Dental Society, American Dental Association, Spear Education, American Academy of Facial Esthetics, Give Kids A Smile, and local study clubs.
Family is at the forefront of my core values; my work family, my patient family, and my home family. I have an amazing husband, Tyler, who also happens to be my dentist. It’s a blessing to have a partner who shares my core values in patient care and who has also chosen to dedicate their life to improving the health of our community. We have two crazy, beautiful, little boys; Austin (4) and Reed (1). You will often hear my comical tales of these two and how I’m navigating being a boy mom. We also have 2 dogs; Doc (maltese) and Deli (Terrier mix). We have a household full of love and laughter just like at the office.
I am sad that I will no longer hear the joyous laughs and whistles coming from my mentor, my friend, at the office. But I am confident his legacy will flourish. I feel blessed that I was trained by such a talented and amazing dentist and that he has chosen me to carry on his legacy. I am excited to introduce the next generation of Healthy Smiles of St. Louis as Crews Dental. Thank you all for giving me the chance to meet and serve you.
AnnMarie Spalding, D.M.D.
Dr. AnnMarie Spalding grew up in Granite City, Illinois and received her Bachelor of Biological Science from Southern Illinois University. She received both her Master of Biomedical Science and her Doctorate of Dental Medicine at Midwestern University.
She holds memberships in the American Dental Association (ADA), the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), and the Greater St. Louis Dental Society. As a student of Spear Education, committing to a career based on growth and life-long learning is important to her. With a deep understanding of the mouth and body connection, she provides a comprehensive approach to dental healthcare. Dr. Spalding prides herself in educating patients towards maintaining a healthier lifestyle.
Growing up in a large and loving family, Dr. Spalding was taught the importance of hospitality and community. She enjoys providing volunteer dental care through Team Smile Events at Busch Stadium and annual St. Louis Smile Generation Serve Days. Outside office hours, she loves to spend weekends at the farmer’s market, cooking family dinners, and hosting game nights with friends.