Alex Hawkins, DDS

Dentist & Owner

Dr. Alex Hawkins is a native Richmonder who graduated from Richmond Christian School and went on to earn both his bachelor’s degree and ultimately his DDS degree from VCU in 2004. After associating in Lynchburg and then Short Pump, he purchased what is now known as Hawkins Family Dentistry (HFD) in 2009.

A passion for connecting the dots between oral and whole-body health, as well as a belief that relevant technology can assist in that mission has led to Dr. Hawkins’ investments in LANAP (a laser therapy for the treatment of gum disease), CEREC single-visit crowns, and salivary testing with protocols that positively impact your oral microbiome. He seeks to integratively blend the best of both traditional and alternative methods, thereby helping patients realize the benefits of improved overall health. He has also spent considerable time serving those in need, having volunteered for four dental missions in Honduras and the Andes mountains of Peru.

A former top vote-getter (by his peers) in Richmond Magazine’s Top Dentists, he is a proud member of the American Academy for Oral Systemic Health (AAOSH) and his team has recently completed coursework with the Integrative Dental Medicine Scholar Society. When not encouraging patients on their health journey, Dr. Hawkins enjoys time with his wife Amy, their three children and daughter-in-law, and their two dogs–a German Shepherd (Maggie) and a Cavapoo (Sebastian). He’s also energized by the perfect pun, rousing games of pickleball and ping-pong, and cheering on the “soon-to-be National Champion” VCU Men’s Basketball team at every opportunity!

Collin Muhler, DDS

Dentist

Dr. Collin Muhler fantastically embodies the core values of HFD, graduating from UMBC in 2018 and the University of Maryland School of Dentistry in 2022. The son of a dentist, Dr. Muhler grew up working in various capacities in dentistry, giving him a unique appreciation for the importance of every team member. In undergrad, he served on multiple trips to Nicaragua, bringing both supplies and treatment through Global Brigades. Seeing the happiness that giving back brought people caused him to love the dental profession even more.

A high school track star and avid ultimate frisbee player in college, Dr. Muhler values movement’s role in promoting wellness while also being a member of the American Academy for Oral Systemic Health. With his experience practicing in a large Maryland office, we’re eager to see him shine and we know he’ll quickly grow a following at HFD, due in no small part to his exceptional clinical abilities and servant leadership. Joyfully married to Dr. Chelsey Muhler, he also has several hobbies to keep his hand/eye skills top-notch, such as billiards, competitive video games, and woodworking.

Chelsey Muhler, DDS

Dentist

Dr. Chelsey Muhler was raised in the Richmond area and graduated from Manchester High School. Exuding kindness, she grew to love dentistry as a result of beginning dental assisting at age 16. Eventual mission work during school furthered that calling, and after obtaining her bachelor’s degree from VCU she went on to graduate in 2022 with her DDS degree from the University of Maryland, where she met Dr. Collin Muhler.

After a little over two years of private practice and now back in her hometown, Dr. Muhler has an adept eye for esthetics, is Invisalign certified, and has a genuine heart for treating the senior community. A member of the American Academy for Oral Systemic Health, she will win you over in record time with her friendly personality and her blend of humility and confidence. With a baby on the way, she also enjoys sewing, quilting, baking, and their two dogs, a Wheaton Terrier named Chief, and Captain, a Bernadoodle.

Laura

Dental Hygienist

Laura graduated from VCU in 2011 and has been devoted to HFD ever since. As a member of the American Academy for Oral Systemic Health, she thrives on educating patients in a way that’s tailored to their specific needs. Seeing a patient who’s previously neglected their health turn a corner and commit themselves to routine care is something she finds especially rewarding. Beyond seeing her many raving fans, Laura enjoys skiing, mountain biking, traveling near and far, and adventures with her Brittany Spaniel, Lady.

Elizabeth

Dental Hygienist

Elizabeth‘s loyalty to HFD dates back to 2010, and we have all benefitted from her presence. A 2010 graduate with honors of VCU’s hygiene program, her ability to connect with her patients and increase their comfort with each visit translates to a trusting relationship. A member of the American Academy for Oral Systemic Health, Elizabeth’s thorough explanations that ensure your full understanding are what you’ll come to expect during each visit. Outside of making your smile shine, she’s committed to her family and loves being on the water.

Kayla

Dental Hygienist

Kayla‘s path to dentistry came about by a desire to follow her mother’s footsteps in healthcare and also by having an amazing childhood hygienist. As vice-president of her hygiene class and graduating from ODU in 2019, followed by obtaining a Master’s degree in public health, Kayla’s goal is earning her patients’ trust while keeping up with advancements in dentistry. Membership in the American Academy for Oral Systemic Health informs her particular interest in the fields of sleep disorders and myofunctional therapy. Kayla’s favorite hobbies include staying active, reading to enrich her knowledge, and hanging with her Cane Corso, Remi.

Shannon

Business Coordinator

Shannon has excelled as our business coordinator since 2022, having been in the dental field since 2016. A multi-tasking extraordinaire, she supports our administrative team in billing, treatment presentation, and scheduling, while her extensive knowledge in both management and finance ensure a smooth, efficient operation. Time with her husband and two young children recharges Shannon, as do music, gardening, and biking.

Bridget

Patient Coordinator

Bridget has graced us with her abilities as patient coordinator since 2019. Her infectious laugh and caring heart allow her to connect with patients from all walks of life. Whether ensuring your satisfaction at the completion of your visit or simply taking your phone call, Bridget does it with delight. With three grown children, she makes time away from work to craft, hike, and get lost in a good film.

Laura

Insurance Coordinator

Laura is an insurance guru, where she’s honed her skills since joining our team in 2021. She will verify your benefits with precision and her mission is to create solutions to allow you to achieve the best oral health, no matter your budget. A graduate of Liberty University and married with a young daughter, Laura’s free time is filled with church activities, tennis, guitar, and photography.

Erin

Patient Coordinator

Erin is our newest front desk coordinator, although she’s not new to dentistry—having worked in the field for over 20 years. As often the first face you see upon entering HFD, Erin’s welcoming demeanor immediately makes you comfortable. She’s a consumate team player and utilizes her experience during the check-in process, conversing with patients by phone or text, and more. Give Erin a good book on the beach and she’s a happy camper, only made better with her family and two dogs.

Brittany

Dental Assistant

Brittany serves as our lead dental assistant, where her skills are unparalleled. A whiz at building trusting relationships with patients since joining our team in 2017, she finds particular satisfaction in more complex dental procedures. She wears many hats including that of our OSHA and HIPAA officers. When not in the office, Brittany loves Tennessee football, making creative (yet non-toxic) candles, and enlisting her dogs to help corral her farm’s flock, including chickens, ducks, geese, and parakeets.

Carmen

Dental Assistant

Carmen has enriched our patients’ experience since 2021 as a certified dental assistant. Graduating at the top of her class in 2017, her eternal optimism and charm move mountains in helping patients feel at ease. She’s a true dental nerd in the best way possible and has a heart for animal rescue, especially those of the feline variety. Beyond that, you may catch Carmen baking, camping, or curling up with a good book.

Scarlett

Dental Assistant

Scarlett brings a generous helping of energy to our dental assisting team. Previously working with a pediatric dental office before joining HFD in 2022, she’s adept at rapport-building with patients no matter how old. Family time is important for Scarlett, as is sampling any tasty food. In addition to her dog Margot, she is a “converted cat person”, thanks to Charlie.