OUR PRACTICE

You deserve a dental team that helps you feel good while protecting your oral health. At Nathanson Dental, we are committed to creating a relaxing environment where you feel comfortable and welcome. From the moment you walk into our dental office in Hunt Valley, you discover a friendly team that takes every opportunity to help you have a positive experience.


We combine spa-inspired services with your scheduled treatments to turn every visit into a relaxing getaway. Our doctors believes that protecting your smile includes protecting your peace of mind. You can trust that we will treat you with respect and provide the quality dental care you need in the peaceful environment you deserve. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our dentist in Hunt Valley.

Meet Our Doctors

Dr. Joel I. Nathanson

DMD, MAGD, D.ABDSM

Dr. Joel I. Nathanson, DMD, MAGD, graduated from Columbia University and earned his Doctorate in Dental Medicine from the University of Pennsylvania. After his service in the U.S. Army Dental Corps, he began practicing comprehensive dental care in Baltimore in 1985. Dr. Nathanson is committed to offering top-notch dental care and has continuously pursued advanced techniques and technologies.


He's a pioneer in Maryland, receiving specialized training at the Lee Institute for Bioesthetic Dentistry and introducing WaterLase® "No Shot, No Drill" dental care. In 2007, he achieved the prestigious Mastership Award from the Academy of General Dentistry, an honor achieved by fewer than two percent of dentists worldwide. Dr. Nathanson remains dedicated to continuing education, having completed over 1,500 hours of additional training.


Dr. Nathanson is involved in various dental organizations and holds Diplomate status in the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. Beyond dentistry, he's passionate about music and theater, having performed at notable venues and even winning on "Jeopardy!" He resides in Baltimore County with his wife and enjoys time with their children and grandchildren.

Dr Nathanson Headshot | Best Dentist for fillings, dentures and TMD | Hunt Valley MD

Dr. Joel I. Nathanson

DMD, MAGD, D.ABDSM

Dr. Joel I. Nathanson, DMD, MAGD, graduated from Columbia University and earned his Doctorate in Dental Medicine from the University of Pennsylvania. After his service in the U.S. Army Dental Corps, he began practicing comprehensive dental care in Baltimore in 1985. Dr. Nathanson is committed to offering top-notch dental care and has continuously pursued advanced techniques and technologies.


He's a pioneer in Maryland, receiving specialized training at the Lee Institute for Bioesthetic Dentistry and introducing WaterLase® "No Shot, No Drill" dental care. In 2007, he achieved the prestigious Mastership Award from the Academy of General Dentistry, an honor achieved by fewer than two percent of dentists worldwide. Dr. Nathanson remains dedicated to continuing education, having completed over 1,500 hours of additional training.


Dr. Nathanson is involved in various dental organizations and holds Diplomate status in the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. Beyond dentistry, he's passionate about music and theater, having performed at notable venues and even winning on "Jeopardy!" He resides in Baltimore County with his wife and enjoys time with their children and grandchildren.

Dr Vail | Best family dentist headshot | Hunt Valley same day dentist in MD

Dr. Shannon Vail

DMD

Dr. Shannon (Burke) Vail is a Baltimore native, born and bred in Timonium where she spent most of her time either on the sports field or in the classroom. She received her B.A. degree from the University of Notre Dame in 2009, where she culminated her collegiate lacrosse career as Team Captain and a Division I First Team All-American. She furthered her studies at Drexel University where she received her M.S. degree in Health Sciences in 2013 and was then awarded a scholarship from the United States Navy to attend the University of Maryland School of Dentistry, from which she received her D.D.S. degree in 2018.


Upon graduation, Dr. Vail completed her residency year at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, and continued her service in Norfolk, VA. During this time, Dr. Vail was able to further develop and refine her skills and capabilities while providing extensive dental care to a pool of over 30,000 patients. During her final year of military service, Dr. Vail served as the solo dentist on one of the Navy’s large amphibious ships, providing quality comprehensive care to over 1,200 sailors.


Dr. Vail met her husband, RT, while at the University in Maryland and the couple married in the fall of 2017. After relocating and reviving Dr. Vail’s childhood home in Timonium in the summer of 2023, they now live there with their daughters Burke and Emery and their son Callan (“CJ”). The busy family of five enjoys spending their time playing outside, going for walks around the neighborhood and attending local events and classes on the weekends.

Meet Our Team

Sabrina

Clinical Team Leader

I’m happiest when we’re able to help patients achieve a smile they love: one that’s healthy and filled with confidence. Dr. Nathanson and our team are the most supportive, wonderful people, and we are all devoted to helping patients change their lives! I work closely with Dr. Nathanson and patients to achieve great oral health, by assisting in various procedures. I also work in our in-house lab, to create custom appliances for our orthodontic patients. I enjoy working with my hands and with people.


My life is spent with my husband, who I met in high school, and our two sons. We also have a miniature Dachshund, Peanut Chew. I love cooking for friends and family and enjoy music and concerts.

Sabrina photo | Family dental staff in hunt valley md

Sabrina

Clinical Team Leader

I’m happiest when we’re able to help patients achieve a smile they love: one that’s healthy and filled with confidence. Dr. Nathanson and our team are the most supportive, wonderful people, and we are all devoted to helping patients change their lives! I work closely with Dr. Nathanson and patients to achieve great oral health, by assisting in various procedures. I also work in our in-house lab, to create custom appliances for our orthodontic patients. I enjoy working with my hands and with people.


My life is spent with my husband, who I met in high school, and our two sons. We also have a miniature Dachshund, Peanut Chew. I love cooking for friends and family and enjoy music and concerts.

Sarah Headshot | Friendly dental staff at best dental spa in Hunt Valley MD

Sarah

Dental Hygiene Team Leader

I started in dentistry back in 2009 as a dental assistant. I built such a strong passion for dentistry that I decided to continue my education and graduated from CCBC in 2016 as a Registered Dental Hygienist. I am passionate about providing great care and delivering proper education based on each patient’s individual needs.


Beyond dentistry, I enjoy spending time with my family, playing with my dog Milo, and crafting

Amber

Adminisitrative Team Leader

It is an honor to work closely with the patients here at Nathanson Dental. It’s a joy to help the patients with finance and coordinate their treatment to achieve their goals for a healthy and beautiful smile. I have worked in the dental field since 2019 and enjoy everyday and every smile. Outside of the office, I love spending time with my husband Craig, my dog Kopper and reading.

Amber

Adminisitrative Team Leader

It is an honor to work closely with the patients here at Nathanson Dental. It’s a joy to help the patients with finance and coordinate their treatment to achieve their goals for a healthy and beautiful smile. I have worked in the dental field since 2019 and enjoy everyday and every smile. Outside of the office, I love spending time with my husband Craig, my dog Kopper and reading.

Photo of Amber | Dental spa staff in Hunt Valley MD

Amber

Adminisitrative Team Leader

It is an honor to work closely with the patients here at Nathanson Dental. It’s a joy to help the patients with finance and coordinate their treatment to achieve their goals for a healthy and beautiful smile. I have worked in the dental field since 2019 and enjoy everyday and every smile. Outside of the office, I love spending time with my husband Craig, my dog Kopper and reading.

Shay

Patient Coordinator

I love being able to help patients stay on track with their dental care. Scheduling patients accordingly and making sure all their needs are met is something I strive for everyday. I also love working with my teammates who are the most caring people I have ever known. When I am not working I am spending time with my son, Malachi. We like to travel as much as possible, but family is my top priority.vidual needs.

Shay headshot | Dental spa staff in Hunt Valley MD

Shay

Patient Coordinator

I love being able to help patients stay on track with their dental care. Scheduling patients accordingly and making sure all their needs are met is something I strive for everyday. I also love working with my teammates who are the most caring people I have ever known. When I am not working I am spending time with my son, Malachi. We like to travel as much as possible, but family is my top priority.vidual needs.

Shawn

Dental Assistant

I love being part of such an involved dental family. At Nathanson Dental, I’ve grown and learned so much more than being a better dental assistant. Creating close bonds and providing top-notch dental care along with comfort and trust is what we do here.


When I’m not here at my second home, I’m surrounded by the people I love most—my daughter Kayleigh, nieces, nephews and siblings—doing what I love most: cooking, hosting a game night or singing my heart out at karaoke. Other than eating hot steamy crabs all year or trying new restaurants with friends, I really enjoy the peace of staying home. Whatever it is I’m involved in, you can always be sure that I’ll bring the vibe!

Photo of Shawn | Dental spa staff | Best family dentist in Hunt Valley MD

Shawn

Dental Assistant

I love being part of such an involved dental family. At Nathanson Dental, I’ve grown and learned so much more than being a better dental assistant. Creating close bonds and providing top-notch dental care along with comfort and trust is what we do here.


When I’m not here at my second home, I’m surrounded by the people I love most—my daughter Kayleigh, nieces, nephews and siblings—doing what I love most: cooking, hosting a game night or singing my heart out at karaoke. Other than eating hot steamy crabs all year or trying new restaurants with friends, I really enjoy the peace of staying home. Whatever it is I’m involved in, you can always be sure that I’ll bring the vibe!

Joanie | Headshot of our dental assistant at our top dental spa in Hunt Valley MD

Joanie

Dental Assistant

I’ve always enjoyed helping people. Being a Dental Assistant for 35 years has been a great way to do that. I love helping patients achieve the dental health and smile they have always wanted. My time outside the office is spent with my husband, our puppy Holly, family and friends. I enjoy cooking, time at Deep Creek Lake and serving the community and my church.

Joanie

Dental Assistant

I’ve always enjoyed helping people. Being a Dental Assistant for 40 years has been a great way to do that. I love helping patients achieve the dental health and smile they have always wanted. My time outside the office is spent with my husband, our puppy Holly, family and friends. I enjoy cooking, time at Deep Creek Lake and serving the community and my church.

Janete

Team Coordinator

I have been in the dental industry for over 5 years and enjoy helping patients achieve the smile they have always wanted. I love that I work in a family atmosphere with my team and with our patients. Outside of the office I enjoy spending time with my son Cillian and going to the gym.

Janet Headshot | Team coordinator at top dentist in Hunt Valley MD | Invisalign, implants, whitening, root canals

Janete

Team Coordinator

I have been in the dental industry for over 5 years and enjoy helping patients achieve the smile they have always wanted. I love that I work in a family atmosphere with my team and with our patients. Outside of the office I enjoy spending time with my son Cillian and going to the gym.

Janete

Team Coordinator

I have been in the dental industry for over 5 years and enjoy helping patients achieve the smile they have always wanted. I love that I work in a family atmosphere with my team and with our patients. Outside of the office I enjoy spending time with my son Cillian and going to the gym.

What Sets Us Apart

woman smiling at dentist | What sets our dental spa apart | Best family dentist in Hunt Valley MD

Comfortable Dental Care, With a Personal Touch

At Nathanson Dental, we take time to learn what you want and need in a dental experience. It’s essential that we understand your desires so we can help you achieve the healthy, radiant smile you deserve!


Dr. Joel Nathanson and our team provide patient-centered care, where the focus is always on you. We’ll work with you to find the approach that works for your clinical and personal situation. We want you to be an enthusiastic participant in your oral healthcare and to love every visit with us.

Comfort-Oriented Dentistry

Today’s advanced technology enables us to provide virtually painless dental care. Even people with severe dental anxiety soon learn there’s nothing to worry about when they come to visit us!


Whenever possible, we use the Waterlase MD®, a leading-edge technology that works without heat, vibration, or drilling. Laser dentistry reduces bleeding, post-op swelling, and pain.

We’re proud to offer a comprehensive Comfort Menu for your pleasure and enjoyment; let us know what you’d like and we’ll make it happen. You may choose to enjoy:

  • Neck and lumbar pillows for gentle support
  •  Warm blankets and throws
  •  Aromatherapy with essential oils
  •  Ceiling-mounted, personal TVs with Netflix
  •  Earbud jacks on each chair for private listening
  •  Dark glasses and comfort clicker
  •  Lip balm and hand lotion
  •  Warm, refreshing lemon- or lavender-scented towels
  •  Complimentary assortment of hot and cold beverages, as well as freshly baked cookies
Man smiling at dentist | Comfort care menu at our dental spa in Hunt Valley MD

Comfort-Oriented Dentistry

Today’s advanced technology enables us to provide virtually painless dental care. Even people with severe dental anxiety soon learn there’s nothing to worry about when they come to visit us!


Whenever possible, we use the Waterlase MD®, a leading-edge technology that works without heat, vibration, or drilling. Laser dentistry reduces bleeding, post-op swelling, and pain.

We’re proud to offer a comprehensive Comfort Menu for your pleasure and enjoyment; let us know what you’d like and we’ll make it happen. You may choose to enjoy:

  • Massage pads, with optional heat, for your chair 
  •  Neck and lumbar pillows for gentle support
  •  Warm blankets and throws
  •  Aromatherapy with essential oils
  •  Ceiling-mounted, personal TVs with Netflix
  •  Earbud jacks on each chair for private listening
  •  Dark glasses and comfort clicker
  •  Lip balm and hand lotion
  •  Warm, refreshing lemon- or lavender-scented towels
  •  Complimentary assortment of hot and cold beverages, as well as freshly baked cookies
Man smiling at dentist | patient centric care at best family dental spa in Hunt Valley MD

Patient-Focused Care

Nathanson Dental is founded on the philosophy that your well-being is the center of our mission. We offer advanced care with the essential human touch: We’re respectful of your individual situation and unique concerns and will always care for you with compassion and empathy.


Dr. Nathanson and our team stay at the forefront of developments in clinical and customer care. We’re avid proponents of continuing education, to ensure we’re providing you with the best treatment and most positive, stress-free environment.

Nathanson Dental’s Core Values

Patient Centric

Surprising and delighting, exceeding expectations, giving patients the best dental experience possible.

Supportive

Encouraging and supportive of our patients and each other.



Positive

Joyful, looking to the bright side, optimistic, looking to make things better, solution oriented.

Honest And Ethical

Doing the right thing for patients and each other, looking for the ‘win-win’.

Innovative

Challenging the status quo, being better by being different, resourceful.

Giving

Giving to each other, to patients, and to the community.

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