About
We strive to excel
We want you to consider Ocean Dental as your one-stop dentist office for all of your dental needs. From general procedures like exams and tooth fillings, cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening or veneers, or restorative procedures like dental implants or dental crowns, we can help you get the smile of your dreams!

Melissa, Front Office
Hello my name is Melissa Garife, I have worked front office at Ocean Dental since August of 2018. I am a registered dental assistant and have been in the dental field for 22 years, I love being in the dental world and helping our community. Being a part of Dr. Dahlquist team has been a great experience; I am still learning every day and enjoy the new technology that our office provides.
I was born and raised in Lompoc, only left for a few years. I am married to my best friend we love camping, spending days at the beach and playing board/card games with our friends and family. I am also a mom, my amazing daughter is currently away in college and will graduate this winter. If I could be anywhere at this moment I would be in Maui!
Mariela, Hygiene Coordinator
As a Hygiene Coordinator, I have been a part of the Ocean Dental team since November 2021. I have worked in the health care field for nine years. I truly enjoy interacting with our great team and the up-to-date office equipment that allows us to provide our patients excellent dental care. I take great delight in interacting with our patients because I learn something new and interesting from them daily.
Outside of work I enjoy watching after my three boys and spending time with family and friends. Thank you for choosing Ocean Dental. I hope to see you soon!


Autumn, Registered Dental Assistant
Hi everyone, I’m Autumn, and I am a Registered Dental Assistant. I have been a Registered Dental Assistant for 18 years. I’ve been a part of Dr. Dahlquist’s team here at Ocean Dental for roughly three years now and have been at this location for over 11 years now with the previous Dr. I strive to ensure patients have the best possible dental experience. A little more about myself outside of the dental field, I am married and have two amazing kids. I enjoy watching my kids play sports, and going on bike rides and beach days with my family and friends. Thank you and welcome to Ocean Dental!
Charlotte, Registered Dental Hygienist
I was born in Minot AFB, North Dakota and spent my childhood being raised in a military family. We moved many times and lived in different countries around the world. I moved to California in 2000 and graduated from Cabrillo High School in 2004. My family has since stayed in the area locally where I now live with my husband and five children.
I have many years of experience in the dental field starting as a Register Dental Assistant in 2009. I continued my educational goals and pursued my license as a Registered Dental Hygienist. I have been practicing as a Hygienist since 2020 and absolutely love what I do caring for my patients’ smiles and oral health! I am dedicated to promoting smiles and delivering compassionate care. I love to bring my wealth of oral hygiene knowledge and commitment to every patient interaction at Ocean Dental.




