David Herald, DDS
Meet Dr. David Herald
I became a dentist because of a combination of my desire to help people, my love of science and anatomy, and a dedication to making a difference in people’s lives. I believe in the importance of total body health and want to ensure that my patients and the community understand the systemic impacts of healthy teeth and gums. It is infinitely rewarding to know that I am positively impacting my patients’ overall health by giving them healthy teeth, an aesthetically-pleasing smile, relief of pain, and alleviation of their concerns and anxieties.
I enjoy meeting a variety of people and we are fortunate to have a very diverse community here in Cottonwood. Every patient brings a new perspective, and while dentistry is my focus, while they are in my office, I enjoy learning about my patients’ personal lives and interests.
Education and Continuing Education
- Bachelor of Science in Environmental Management – University of Rhode Island, 1993
- Post Baccalaureate Studies – Harvard, Fairfield University, University of Bridgeport
- Doctorate of Dental Surgery – University of the Pacific, 2006
I participate in multiple forms of continuing education, usually about two to three times the amount mandated to maintain licensure. The courses I attend through numerous study clubs give me the knowledge and ability to provide the best possible care for my patients.
Professional Affiliations
- American Dental Association
- Arizona Dental Association
- Northern Arizona Dental Society
- International Dental Implant Association
- CEREC® Doctors
- Dentaltown
Outside the Office
Born in Glen Ellyn, IL, I grew up in Fairfield, CT, and have lived in Cottonwood, AZ since 2006. My wife, Paula, and I have a son named Finnegan and a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, Chungus. When I have free time, I enjoy taking advantage of the beautiful Cottonwood area and can often be found bicycling, kayaking, and hiking.
Growing up, my family has always been involved in business development. I spent my youth helping my parents in construction and enjoyed learning all aspects of business. My wife and I have followed that model and want to ensure we instill a good work ethic in our son.
I enjoy being a part of the Cottonwood community and contributing to its overall economic and social growth. I am active in the Chamber of Commerce, my son’s school, and our church.
Eve Pence, DMD
Meet Dr. Eve Pence
The field of dentistry is composed of a unique skill set that has the potential to not only change one’s smile, but also their life. Growing up in a very big family (try guessing how many siblings I have) provided lots of love, but little resources for pursuing necessary dental treatment. I was no stranger to emergency dental treatment and the shame that followed from having many extractions at a young age due to early childhood caries.
My parents investing in my orthodontic treatment not only greatly improved my smile, but also my self-esteem, which in return, provided me with a passion to pursue dentistry to redeem the smiles and lives of every patient I meet. I believe that every day is an opportunity to choose to put into practice a healthy habit (such as brushing or flossing regularly) and to make your oral health a priority.
Over the past couple of years, the individuals that I have had the honor of treating were not only my patients, but became my family. Seeing these very special individuals who presented for their first comprehensive exam with anxiety, shame, and doubt, over time with hard work and grace, transformed into people who became confident with a healthy smile. I love the field of dentistry because not only does it focus on improving oral health, but concurrently improves systemic health, and brightens the lens through which we view our world.
Education and Continuing Education
- Doctor of Dental Medicine & Master of Public Health / A.T. Still University, Mesa, AZ MAY 2023
- B.S. in Family, Youth and Community Sciences / University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
Professional Affiliations
American Dental Association
Academy of General Dentistry
Outside the Office
Born and raised in Florida, I have always loved being outside and on the water. Although, Arizona lacks the ocean, it makes up for it with the beautiful mountains and national parks. In my opinion, the outdoors is the best place to spend your free time! In my spare time, I enjoy reading a book while sipping a cup of coffee, hiking, skiing, camping, and paddle boarding with my pup, Peanut.3
Meet The Team
We recognize that all of our patients are unique and deserve to receive dental care that reflects their individual needs. Our experienced and talented dental team is committed to working with you and your family to create a comfortable, stress-free, and rewarding dental experience every time you visit our practice. We are pleased to welcome you and your family, and we look forward to working with you.
Stephanie
Office Coordinator
Welcome to our practice! I am the friendly face at the front desk. I love to find ways to help people smile! It is important to me that each of you enjoy a feeling of ease and confidence in our office. I have been with Dr. Herald’s office since January, 2015. I take care of all patient coordination with appointments, treatment plans, insurance, billing and front office management. As your insurance and billing specialist, I am here to assist you through explaining and discussing your insurance benefits and processing dental claims. I enjoy working with you on the financial aspects of your dental needs.
Originally from Tennessee, I grew up in Apache Junction, AZ, and moved to Cottonwood in 1997. In my spare time, I love photography, traveling, hiking and shopping! I’ve been married for 25 years and we have 3 amazing children. I also have a strong connection to the community and my church.
Nicole
Patient Coordinator / Assistant
Nicole joined our team in 2018 and has lived in the Verde Valley for 15 years. She graduated from Northern Arizona University and is an Arizona native.
She enjoys making our patients feel comfortable and at ease and enjoys getting to know them, and serving them and their families.
Outside the office, you can find Nicole and her husband chasing their three kids at a field, a court, a track or pool. She loves to run and hike, and feels blessed to live in such a beautiful area.
Jessica J.
Dental Hygienist
It’s been 18 years ago already, that I graduated with my Bachelor Degree in Dental Hygiene from NAU. I stumbled across my profession by taking a career aptitude test. It was spot on, because I really enjoy what I do, and the patients that come with it. It’s my intention to build comfortable and trusting relationships with my patients. I want patients to walk away feeling they had a gentle albeit thorough cleaning.
I was raised in beautiful Sierra Vista, AZ, and eventually found my home here in the Verde Valley with my husband, Aaron, and three awesome children. It is a pleasure to be part of Dr. Heralds team, bringing excellent dental care to our community. Oh, I must mention my new favorite pasttime – Pickle Ball! It’s SO fun!
Andrea
Dental Hygienist
Lynn
Dental Hygienist
My role as a dental hygienist allows me to help our patients achieve and maintain an ideal state of oral health. This is done through gentle yet thorough cleanings, patient education, management of periodontal disease, and fluoride treatment. Our patients are some of the nicest, most interesting people I’ve ever met, and I consider it a privilege to work with them to achieve their goals. My interests outside the office include nutrition/health, raw foods, cooking healthy, and meditation. I also enjoy traveling, hiking, kayaking, and being in nature as much as possible. I had previous training in art as a painter and I am currently learning how to make silk scarves.
Britney 
Dental Hygienist
Although I just recently joined Dr. Heralds office (and his awesome crew), I have been practicing Dental Hygiene for the past 13 years. I pride myself in being thorough and treating every patient as if they were a member of my family. I enjoy building relationships and trust with my patients, giving each one personalized care. I also understand coming to the dentist isn’t everyone’s favorite thing to do and love the challenge of turning a stressful situation into a rewarding experience. I love caring for patients of every age, and have a strong passion for the vulnerable and special needs population.
My husband and I have 3 beautiful children we enjoy chasing all over the place (and one more on the way, due in December)!! We love sports (playing college volleyball myself), spending most of our time either in a gym or out at the softball field. When we aren’t enjoying sports, you will find us outdoors… at the lake, kayaking, hunting, camping (or trying to catch up on rest at home)!! Another passion of mine has been coaching volleyball at Camp Verde High School for the past 6 years. I love not only instilling a passion for the great sport into my athletes but also teaching them character qualities that will last them a lifetime.
Heidi
Dental Assistant
I am a native resident to Cottonwood. I have been in and out of the dental field for 20 years. I started as an assistant for a periodontist here in Cottonwood. Resigned and raised children. I moved to Wyoming for 10 years where I jumped back into the dental field as an assistant for a general/cosmetic dentist. Stayed with that office until having a younger set of children. Stayed home to raise them and in the process moved back to Cottonwood where I began work with Dr. Herald. I am extremely appreciative of the opportunity to work with this great office.
My interests include working out, powerlifting, horses, hiking, and reading. I would like to continue to compete in powerlifting at some point in the future. I enjoy being home with my family and living a slow paced life on the mini farm.
Alyssa
Dental Assistant
Alyssa joined our team in 2021. Alyssa has multiple years of dental assisting experience. She brings a can-do and positive attitude to the team and is a joy to be around. She has a comfortable demeanor with patients and strives to deliver excellence. She is a fantastic mother of her great kids and balances work and family like a pro.
Paula
Financial/
Insurance Coordinator
With over 35 years of experience in the insurance industry, it is my goal to partner up with Stephanie in contacting insurance companies for past-due payments, updating patients of their current balance, sending billing statements, and collections. I feel so fortunate to work with such a wonderful group of people. My co-workers are like my second family! My husband Bob and I have been happily married for 37 years; we are blessed with two beautiful girls, who also work in the dental field, and five grandchildren. I enjoy reading, cooking, scrapbooking, camping, and spending time with my family.
Rachel
Dental Assistant
Rachel has been a great addition to our team. She started her dental career with Dr. Herald at a prior dental office in 2009. She has experience in the front and back office, and is very knowledgeable in all aspects of dentistry. Rachel and her husband love to camp, fish, hunt, and travel with their son, Wyatt. She is excited to be a part of our team.
