John Vrbicek, CDT

Previously to starting at The Dental Center in 2005, John had 22 years of experience in the dental laboratory field. John graduated from Kirkwood’s Dental Technology Program in 1983, earning his Dental Technician Certification in 1987 specializing in crown and bridge work. John has served as a board member of The Iowa Dental Laboratory Association since 1990, serving as President five of the years. Since 1993, John has been a chair member of The Dental Laboratory Advisory Committee, offering advice on Kirkwood’s Dental Laboratory curriculum for the students. John enjoys the artistry that comes along with creating teeth, making every tooth unique to each patient.

Danny Roberts, CDT

With 36 years of experience in Dental Laboratory Technology, Danny Roberts, CDT brings a wealth of knowledge to his restorative art. After his NBC Certification in 1989, he forged a career path in the specialty area of removable prosthetics. From 1990-2018, he owned Hawkeye Dental Studio. Dr. Chris Haganman searched out for his technical skills and acquired his lab in June 2018. Danny is looking forward to working with the team to provide the best in quality and esthetics to the patients.

Danny’s passion for technology and precision has proven to be a perfect marriage between dental implants and complex removable restorations.

When not at the bench, Danny can be found enjoying time with his wife Cheryl, family and grandchildren. Enjoys camping, motorcycling, boating and playing the guitar/singing in the Compass Rose Band.

Cal Stovie, RG

Cal is a dental technician with The Dental Center. He fabricates prosthesis, mainly crowns and bridges amongst other restorations. Cal has a Bachelors in Biological research and a minor in Chemistry. Also, he completed his A.A.S. in Dental technology with a RG (Registered Graduate).

“During my free time, I like to golf and watch football.”
“Working at the in-house lab here at The Dental Center is very unique in the sense of the line of communication with the dentist and the office as a whole. If there are any questions, we can go directly to the source and communicate in person. The environment is enjoyable, everyone is always willing to teach which helps you improve not only as a technician, but as a person. I also appreciate the ability to work with the patient and understand their wants and needs, which, in turn makes my job easier.”

“Details matter, it’s worth waiting to get it right.” -Steve Jobs

“Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle. As with all matters of the heart, you’ll know when you find it.” -Steve Jobs

Chelsy Heaverlo, RG

Arial Hodnefield, RG

Arial graduated from Kirkwood Community College in 2013 from the Dental Laboratory Program, focusing on the removable department.

“I enjoy spending time with my boyfriend, Bryce. Together we enjoy boating, hockey games, and being around family and friends.”

“I love the atmosphere and working with talented people at The Dental Center!”

Melissa Robinette

Melissa’s job at The Dental Center is to design crown, bridge, and implant restorations utilizing the latest CAD/CAM technology on the market. Starting with an impression or scan of the patient’s mouth, she creates a 3D rendering of the restoration and then mills or 3D prints it before it is finished by a ceramist. She also uses Smile Simulator software to treatment plan anterior and cosmetic cases, giving our patients a 2D visual of their smile.

Melissa came to The Dental Center with 16 years of experience in a dental laboratory and has worked with top technicians and restorative dentists in the U.S. She has had extensive training in over a dozen different CAD/CAM systems throughout her career.

“I really am passionate about what I do. Creating beautiful smiles is such a rewarding career and I’m always looking for ways to improve and enhance my artistry. I love photography, art, music, and wine but above all else, I enjoy spending time with my family. My husband, Darren and I have three kids. We have a special passion for board sports such as skating, snowboarding, surfing, and longboarding. We also love cheering on the Hawks!”

“I love being around this team who shares my passion for dentistry! The Dental Center Staff truly treats each other like family.”

“Let your smile change the world, but don’t let the world change your smile.”

Amy Scheckel

Amy graduated from Hawkeye Community College in 2006 with an Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education. After eleven years, she was looking for a change. She took the opportunity to replace her mother’s valued position as office manager in her father’s (Danny) dental lab. Amy has taken on a huge role in multi-tasking, learning different technical aspects of dental laboratory technology.

“In my free time, I enjoy spending time with family. My husband Adam, daughters Gina and Jessica, and I like to watch movies, play Mario Kart, and spend most of the summer days in our backyard pool. I have enjoyed playing softball since I was five and joined my neighbors in playing on their team.”