Meet the Team at LIFE Advanced Integrated Dentistry

Dr. Charissa Chin is a dedicated and passionate dentist based in Alexandria, VA, known for her comprehensive approach to oral health and her commitment to lifelong learning. She holds an Advanced Education in General Dentistry certificate from Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, and a General Practice Residency certificate from Berkshire Medical Center, a major affiliate of the University of Massachusetts Medical School. The scope of her advanced training have equipped her with increased knowledge and expanded skills to provide excellent care to patients who have multiple medical conditions and extensive dental disease.

She was recruited and appointed to the Assistant Professor position at the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry. She served as a faculty member at VCU for approximately four years before entering full-time private practice. Dr. Chin is passionate about helping you achieve your optimum level of oral health.

Dr. Chin is committed to continuing education and keeping up-to-date with the latest advances in dentistry. She is a Fellow of both the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (FICOI) and the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD). These achievements attest to Chin’s extensive training, with the FICOI requiring 20 completed and documented implant cases and at least 100 hours of continuing education, while the FAGD demands an extensive exam and 500 hours of continuing education as well as passing the fellowship exam. Additionally, she is an alumnus of the Dawson Academy, a postgraduate educational and clinical research facility, dedicated to the advancement of dentistry and supports dentists striving to be physicians of the masticatory system. 

Dr. Chin’s favorite part about working in the dental field is the chance to express kindness through her work. She values the meaningful human interactions that dentistry brings and finds joy in restoring patients’ oral health and confidence, enabling them to express themselves fully. Partnering with patients to achieve their desired level of health is central to her practice philosophy.

When asked what drew her to dentistry, Dr. Chin says it was the thought of being able to alleviate pain and suffering. She appreciates every opportunity to educate her patients about oral health and believes in the power of learning and growing together with her team. This team approach creates an environment that promotes excellent patient care and personal growth, a hallmark of LIFE Advanced Integrated Dentistry.

Away from her practice, Dr. Chin enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends, experimenting with new recipes, tending her vegetable garden and maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular workouts and swimming. She also nurtures her creative side through watercolor painting. These activities and hobbies allow her to unwind, gain inspiration, and bring more joy into her life and work.

Lisa is a dedicated dental hygienist with a deep-rooted commitment to promoting oral health and well-being. Her professional journey began in 1995 when she earned her Associate in Applied Science in Dental Hygiene from Northern Virginia Community College. Expanding her scope of expertise, Lisa obtained certification in local anesthesia and nitrous oxide sedation for dental hygienists from Old Dominion University in 2017.

Always eager for growth and education, Lisa has remained passionately engaged in her field to better serve her patients. She firmly believes that oral health is an indispensable aspect of one’s overall well-being. Recognizing that each individual’s oral health needs are unique, Lisa’s warm and compassionate approach creates an environment that is comfortable and stress-free, tailored to each patient. Lisa looks forward to the opportunity to partner with you in achieving optimal oral health.

Outside the office, Lisa loves spending time with her family and working on projects around the house. She values the time she spends enjoying nature and especially loves taking walks around Burke Lake Park.

Meet Fasika, your certified dental assistant with an impressive twenty-three years of experience in the dental field. Originally from Ethiopia, Fasika brings a unique bilingual advantage, fluently conversant in both English and Amharic. Her passion for dentistry ignited upon her arrival in America, and she has since dedicated herself wholeheartedly to the craft.

Throughout her extensive career, Fasika has earned various certifications, showcasing her unwavering commitment to staying at the forefront of dental advancements. Along her professional journey, she has had the privilege of meeting numerous wonderful individuals, fostering lasting connections within the dental community. Fasika’s commitment extends beyond technical expertise; she takes pride in going the extra mile for her patients, ensuring their comfort and satisfaction. Her dedication also shines through in maintaining the office environment at its best, creating a welcoming and efficient space for both staff and patients alike.

Outside of work, Fasika finds joy in spending quality time with her three beautiful kids and husband. Whether it’s watching movies, cooking, or enjoying a nice walk outside when the weather is right. A significant aspect of Fasika’s life outside of work is her strong faith, and attending church is a cornerstone of her weekly routine. Her faith is not just a part of her personal life, but it also plays a vital role in shaping her values and approach to patient care.