Susan Clifton
Practice Manager
Married to Dr. Clifton since 1988, I have been managing the business aspects of our dental practice full time since 1998. Prior to that I was employed as the controller at the R. David Thomas Executive Conference Center on the Duke University campus. Working with Dr. Clifton and our staff, we have strived to create a professional, welcoming dental experience for our patients. I am an active member of several local PTA organizations, teach Sunday school, coach several science decathlon teams, and enjoy spending time with my family.
Cheryl Welch-Walker
Scheduling Coordinator
I began my career in dentistry in 1986 after obtaining my certificate as a dental laboratory technician from Nassau County Technological Center in Westbury, New York. I moved to Fayetteville, North Carolina in 1987 where I was employed as a practice manager until I joined Dr. Clifton’s office in 2004. I love my job as the scheduling coordinator! My goal is to provide excellent customer service and to help make our patients feel at home and comfortable during their visit. I live in Raleigh with my husband, Sajawta, and our two sons, Bryan and Sidney. I truly feel fortunate to have found a great doctor and team.
Susan Owen
Financial Coordinator
In 1989, my family moved to Mebane, North Carolina from Virginia. I was fortunate to find a position as office manager in a local dental office and immediately fell in love with the business. During my time there, I also trained as a chair side assistant. I have been a part of Dr. Clifton’s team as Financial Coordinator since 2006. It has been an unique and enjoyable experience where the term “family practice” is not take for granted. After two decades of experience, I still have the same desire and passion for my job. I have gained an appreciation and understanding that we are here to provide our patients with not only superior professional services but a friendly smile as well. I sincerely enjoy our patients.
My husband, Gary, and I have raised five wonderful children who, in turn, have blessed us with five wonderful grandchildren. Of course, we do not consider ourselves empty nesters as our five demanding cats keep us busy. When time permits, I love reading, trips to the beach, being “Granny”, and coordinating special weekend “honey do” work projects with my not-so-enthusiastic husband.
I have been working as a dental hygienist for 26 years. I began my 30 year career in the dental profession in the United States Army as a dental assistant. I am a graduate of Fayetteville Community College with an A.A.S. in Dental Hygiene and received my B.S. in Business Administration from Winthrop University. I joined Dr. Clifton’s team in May of 2007 and feel very fortunate to be working with such a great dentist and dental team. I am originally from Hawaii. My husband, Les, is a native North Carolinian and we live in Youngsville with our “furry child”, our cat, Lewis Dean. I am an avid reader and shopper. Les and I enjoy the beach and traveling.
Carolyn Vining, RDH
Dental Hygienist
I was born and raised in South Florida. In the early 1980s, I moved to New Jersey where I attended the University of Medicine and Dentistry in Newark, New Jersey. I earned an Associate of Science degree in Dental Hygiene. After working for a year in New Jersey, I returned home and obtained a Florida dental hygiene license. I practiced for 15 years in Florida before deciding to relocate to North Carolina in 2005. In 2006, I obtained my North Carolina dental hygiene license and began working for Dr. Clifton. I have three children and spend much of my free time enjoying my extended family.
Kim Plucker
Dental Assistant II
I began my dental career in 1995 working as a chair side assistant. I joined Dr. Clifton’s practice in November of 2007. I really enjoy my career as a dental assistant because every day I get the chance to care for and touch the lives of many different people. I am a native of Durham. When away from the office, I enjoy spending time with my loving husband of 12 years, Carl, and our two beautiful sons. I also enjoy reading and taking long nature walks with my family.