Meet the Team at Thomas Orthodontics
At Thomas Orthodontics, we are more than a clinic—we are a family. Our team has skilled individuals who share a common goal: to provide the best orthodontic care while making our patients feel at home. Get to know the people who make Thomas Orthodontics the community’s choice for orthodontic care.
Dr. James W. Thomas, DMD, MSD - The Crafter of Smiles
Dr. James W. Thomas is not just the name behind our practice; he is the cornerstone of our high-quality care. With a Bachelor’s in Biomedical Engineering and as a board-certified orthodontist, Dr. Thomas brings a wealth of knowledge and a thorough approach to orthodontics. His orthodontic residency at the University of Colorado solidified his expertise, particularly in the innovative approaches to patient care.
Outside the office, Dr. Thomas is a family man, sharing his life with his wife, Tricia, and their four children. The Thomas family cherishes the natural beauty and tight-knit community of Spanish Fork. Whether yardwork, cycling, or enjoying the great outdoors, Dr. Thomas invests in the same community he serves.
The Thomas Orthodontics Family
Our team’s diverse expertise and unified dedication to patient satisfaction make Thomas Orthodontics a place where smiles are crafted with care and precision. We’re not just your orthodontic team; we’re your neighbors, supporters, and biggest cheerleaders on this journey to a perfect smile.
Kim Turner
Office Manager
I was born in Seeley Lake, Montana. My husband Trent and I live in Elk Ridge and have two amazing kids, Morgan and Kalin, and Jakell our daughter in law. We enjoy being outdoors, camping, watching movies, and traveling. I personally love exercising, running, being in the sun, and baking lots of treats. I started working for Thomas Orthodontics in September of 2014. As a patient myself, I know the confidence a beautiful smile can give someone. We have the best patients and I love getting to know them, taking care of them, and being part of their smile transformations!
Jenny Childers
Treatment Coordinator
I grew up in the beautiful state of Washington. I moved to Utah for school, met my husband Darin, lived in New Mexico for 12 years and are now back in Utah! Along the way, we had 3 children whose ages now are 16, 14, and 12. In my spare time, I enjoy baking, traveling, reading, attending sporting events, and exercising (skiing, hiking, running, biking, and tennis to name a few). I joined Thomas Orthodontics in 2022 and have loved getting to meet each new patient. The dental field has always been a passion of mine and so helping kids and adults get started on their journey to getting straight teeth and amazing smiles is something I enjoy.
Laina Benhoff
Scheduling Coordinator
I was born and raised in Eugene, Oregon but have called Utah my home for the past 23 years. My husband and I are the proud parents of 5 amazing children- 4 sons and 1 daughter. In my free time I enjoy traveling, spending time with my family, being outdoors, and listening to true crime podcasts. I joined the Thomas Orthodontics team in June of 2020 and couldn’t be happier. I love interacting with our amazing patients, and helping them build confident and beautiful smiles.
Jamie Smith
Records Tech
I grew up in Salem, and have lived in Spanish Fork for the past 6 years. My husband, Dustin and I have 5 amazing kids ages 7-17. I enjoy spending time with my family, yoga, shopping, and woodworking. I love getting to know new patients by introducing them to our office. I am so happy to be part of the Thomas Orthodontics team.
Elaina Olsen
Lab Technician
In 5th grade, I did a project about my dream job, orthodontist assistant. Fast forward a few years, and here I am, working at an orthodontics office. Wow, dreams really do come true! Some of my favorite things to do are watercoloring and sewing. I love hiking, camping, and being out in nature. I especially love being with my family.
Ashlee Gardiner
Clinical Coordinator
I live in a small farming community call Milburn. I’ve worked in the ortho field for 20 years and am new to the Thomas Ortho family. What I love most about orthodontics is making lasting relationships with the patients and watching them grow and change. When I’m not in the ortho office you will find me hiking, fishing, enjoying the outdoors with my family or at hard rock or metal concerts. I love to play sports and support my kinds in their athletic events.
Madison Dopp
Orthodontic Assistant
I have been in ortho for a year. I started working for Dr. Thomas in August of 2021. I couldn’t ask for better people to work with. I was born in Ogden and raised in Layton, Utah. I grew up playing sports and still love being active. I love running, working out, and being outside, especially in the summer. During the winter, you can find me curled up in a blanket and watching a movie. I have a degree in health sciences and am considering going into dental hygiene. I love teeth and think smiles are our best accessory. I was 14 when I got braces. It was a highlight to watch my teeth straighten, and I received many compliments during and after I got my braces off. I was no longer insecure about my smile. Now, I get to be a part of that journey with all our patients. Watching their smile improve and seeing the excitement once their braces come off. I get excited for them, and I feel like I am making a difference. I also enjoy meeting and interacting with new people every day.
Amory Carter
Orthodontic Assistant
I grew up in Fillmore, Utah, and I have lived in Spanish Fork for 6 years. I love Spanish Fork and want to live here forever. I have 3 kids ages 3, 6, and 8. Life is so fun and crazy busy with them. I like to go in the mountains, play games, and love going to Disney and Universal with family and friends. I’m grateful for my job and love my coworkers and patients.
Distinctions and Awards
An American Board-certified orthodontist, Dr. Thomas has been recognized for his contributions to the field, including a Second Place Award at the 47th Annual American Dental Association/DENTSPLY Student Clinician Program and the prestigious Eugene M. Seidner Scholarship Award. His proficiency in dental lasers, certified by the Academy of Laser Dentistry, is part of our commitment to providing cutting-edge care.
American Board Certified
47th Annual American Dental Association /DENTSPLY Student Clinician Program – Second Place Award in Category 1
Eugene M. Seidner Scholarship Award
Earned Standard Proficiency Certification from the Academy of Laser Dentistry in the use of dental lasers
Publications
Dr. Thomas has contributed to several esteemed publications, sharing his expertise and research in orthodontic advancements. These contributions underscore our dedication to advancing the field and enriching patient care.
Published Research
Photomed. Laser Surg. August 2009 “Thermal safety of Er: YAG and Er, Cr: YSGG lasers in hard tissue removal: thermal safety of erbium lasers on hard tissues.”
Abstracts and Presentations
Dr. Thomas was active in biomaterial research during dental school and has eight abstracts and one oral presentation with the IADR, AADR, and CADR.
Professional Affiliations
We are proud to be affiliated with reputable dental and orthodontic associations, reflecting our continuous commitment to professional development and adherence to the highest standards of orthodontic practice.
Utah Association of Orthodontists
Start Your Smile Journey with Thomas Orthodontics
Choosing Thomas Orthodontics means more than just receiving care from Dr. Thomas. It means being welcomed by a team that stands by you at every step, ensuring your comfort, confidence, and satisfaction. Our shared dedication to your smile and health makes us more than just a practice—it makes us a family.
We invite you to visit us and experience firsthand the warm, expert care that defines Thomas Orthodontics.
We can’t wait to meet you and make you a part of our orthodontic family!