Our Dental Philosophy
Dr. Fazio's transformative journey has been the cornerstone of Holistic Dental Wellness. His experience with mercury toxicity reshaped his dental philosophy, leading him to eliminate the use of mercury-containing amalgam fillings and focus on mercury-safe protocols. This shift not only improved his health but also became a pivotal aspect of his practice, allowing him to offer a safer, more holistic dental experience to his patients. Dr. Fazio's commitment to continuous learning and application of the latest techniques in oral surgery and holistic dental care is evident in every aspect of his practice.
Meet Dr. Leonard T. Fazio
Dr. Leonard T. Fazio's journey in dentistry is both unique and inspiring. After graduating from New York University College of Dentistry in 1988 and experiencing severe health problems, Dr. Fazio's research and personal experiences led him to discover the harmful effects of mercury exposure in dental practices.
His dedication to finding a healthier approach for both himself and his patients led him to become an expert in mercury-safe dental practices.
Trained by Dr. Hal Huggins, DDS, MS, in mercury-safe amalgam-removal protocols, Dr. Fazio's transformation has not only benefited his own health but has also profoundly impacted the way he practices dentistry. He is passionate about providing mercury-free and mercury-safe treatments, ensuring a healthier dental experience for his patients.
Dr. Linda J. Golden
Dr. Linda Golden earned her DDS from New York University College of Dentistry in 1990, followed by a postgraduate residency at Lutheran Medical Center. Over the course of her career, she has transitioned from general and cosmetic dentistry to biological oral surgery, combining surgical precision with holistic healing tools.
She has trained with leading voices in both cosmetic and biological dentistry, including Dr. Marc Lowenberg, Dr. Gregg Lituchy, and Dr. Reid Winick, and she remains deeply committed to ongoing education. Her work at the Paracelsus Institute and certification in Ghanaati’s protocols reflect her lifelong pursuit of methods that elevate healing and honor the whole person.
Dr. Golden is a member of the International Academy of Oral Medicine & Toxicology (IAOMT), the Holistic Dental Association, the American Academy of Laser Dentistry, and the International Association of Mercury Free Dentists.
Kristen
Office Manager
Kristen is the Office Manager at Holistic Dental Wellness, joining their team in 2023. After graduating from Stony Brook University in 2009 with Spanish Language and Literature, she decided to change career choice from teaching and started her first dental job in an Orthodontic office in November 2009. Kristen joined the Holistic dental field in 2013, making her way up to management throughout the years, focusing largely on treatment planning, financial arrangements, and insurance. She enjoys exercise and running, spending time at the beach, cooking, and traveling with her 6-year-old daughter and husband of 10 years. Kristen was born and raised in St. James and resides in South Setauket with her family.
Ashley
Certified Dental Assistant
Ashley embarked on her dental assisting career in 2008 and joined Dr. Fazio's team in 2015. Working alongside such a fantastic team, she finds joy in helping our patients achieve and maintain radiant and healthy smiles, while always ensuring their comfort during treatment. She’s got a great laugh and down-to-earth personality, and our patients love seeing her. She enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband, daughter (4) and new baby boy! (5 months), and we can’t forget her Frenchie pup Kiwi! She loves to travel, going to the beach and always adventuring outdoors.
Gisel
Certified Dental Assistant
Gisel has been a dental assistant for approximately 15 years after graduating from Boces Dental Assisting Program in 2010. She joined our team in October 2024, and you’ll see her in the back assisting the Drs and supporting the clinical staff. She has a cheery bubbly personality, and you’ll always see her smiling. She is a great help to the practice and loves the field of dentistry! She is a mom of two wonderful kids; a boy that’s 9 and a girl that’s 7 and a pup named Pretzel. She loves the beach and a good book.
DJ
Marketing Director and Clinical Support
Born and raised on Long Island, DJ started his journey at Dr. Fazio’s 3 years ago. He is the marketing director and doubles as a dental assistant, seamlessly balancing creativity and precision in his work. Outside the office, he finds joy in nature, often exploring scenic trails with his beautiful wife Nicole. At home, his fluffy cat Rita keeps things lively, adding a touch of love and mischief to the daily routine. When he leaves the office for the day he heads to his personal music studio. As a studio engineer, he's bringing this technical expertise and artistic vision together, crafting high-quality songs with finesse.
Sev
Patient Care Coordinator
Sev has been with our team since September 2024. You’ll find her at our front office, checking patients in and out, scheduling, taking calls and handling all aspects of the front desk to ensure the day to day goes smoothly. She has been a patient care coordinator in the dental field since 2017. She is thorough, efficient, and quick to answer any question or need you have. When not helping our dental family, outside of work she loves travelling, spending time with friends and family, and cuddling her kitty named Puff and resides in Commack.
Paula
RDH, HIAOMT
Paula has been a dental hygienist for more than 30 years, graduating with her bachelor’s in dental hygiene in 1987 and a master’s degree in health administration in 1993. Paula is licensed in administering Laser and Anesthesia and has been practicing in the Holistic Community for 15 years. Paula has great attention to detail, a gentle touch and her fun bubbly personality is a wonderful fit in our practice, especially with our little ones! They love her! She resides locally with her loving husband and has raised three grown children in St. James. She loves baking and shopping!
Tammy
RDH, HIAOMT
Growing up in Saint James, Tammy has dedicated over 30 years to dental hygiene, with the last 15 years focused on holistic practices. She prides herself on providing gentle yet thorough care, including comfortable dental injections and Nitrous Oxide administration. Her journey in holistic dentistry expanded into becoming a Myofunctional Therapist, with a keen interest in essential oils. Married for over 25 years and a mother of three, her happiest moments are those spent with her family and dog, especially when they’re outdoors or relaxing by the beach.
Dr. Fazio is SMART Cerified
SAFE MERCURY AMALGAM REMOVAL TECHNIQUE
SMART is a global health initiative to protect dental patients, dental employees and the global environment from the harmful effects of mercury that is generated during the removal of dental amalgam fillings, which contain roughly 50% elemental mercury.
