Meet The Team
Our compassionate & professional dental care staff is prepared for your every concern & need.
Gina Collins Mancini, DMD
Founder & Dentist
Welcome to our Meet the Team page and thank you for your interest in our practice. I am blessed to be able to spend my days with this team and I look forward to getting to know you and you getting to know our ABS Family.
A little about my background is that I was born in High Point, NC and moved to Jacksonville when I was three years old. I attended North Carolina State University in Raleigh, NC and then attended Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston, MA. I graduated in 2000 and continued my training at Harvard School of Dental Medicine as well as a prosthodontic private practice in Cambridge, MA. I loved my time in Boston, but I also missed my family back here in North Carolina.
I came back and began my dental career at Anderson & Slack Dentistry, which just so happened to be my dentist as a child. It was a great learning experience and I had the opportunity to work with several dentists that mentored me and I am grateful for the 10 years I spent there.
I then decided to open my own practice and it has been incredibly rewarding. I truly love coming to work and treating my patients, getting to know them, and being able to work with the people I have as part of my team. I am truly blessed.
I am a member of The Onslow County Dental Society, American Dental Association and North Carolina Dental Society. I enjoy spending time with my husband and my children. I also enjoy writing and because of this, I decided to write a children’s book a few years ago, Tabitha and Tanner the Tooth. I wrote this because over the years, I treated a lot of children and I wanted to create something to help ease their anxiety and help make dentistry fun. This journey with Tabitha and Tanner the Tooth has been even more than expected. It has allowed me to reach children beyond my private practice. The books and buddies have been taken to children on mission trips, been purchased from people all across the country and I am very proud of this. We use the lessons in my book in our office and it has helped many children conquer their fear of dentistry and improve health care habits and nutritional habits that will last them a lifetime.
Thank you for taking the time to read about me and I look forward to meeting you.
Whitney Mitchell, DMD
Associate Dentist
My name is Whitney Mitchell, and I have been practicing dentistry since 2009. I truly love what I do. For me, dentistry is about more than treating teeth—it’s about getting to know my patients, helping them feel comfortable in the dental chair, and providing thoughtful, individualized care.helping them feel comfortable in the dental chair, and providing thoughtful, individualized care.
I grew up in Greene County, North Carolina, and graduated from Greene Central High School before attending East Carolina University, where I studied Biology and Chemistry. My path to dentistry began during my undergraduate years, when I had the opportunity to work as a chairside dental assistant alongside my mom, Dr. Cheryl T. Carraway. It was during those years in her dental office that I discovered my own love for dentistry and decided to follow in her footsteps.
I continued my education at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston, Massachusetts, where I earned my dental degree in 2009. Over the years, I have enjoyed practicing comprehensive general dentistry and caring for patients through all stages of life. I especially enjoy restorative dentistry and oral surgery, as well as helping my patients understand their treatment options so they can make informed decisions about their oral health.
After dental school, I married my husband, Trey, and returned home to Eastern North Carolina. We live in Jones County with our two boys, Wyatt and Sawyer, and our dogs, Maggie and River.
When I’m not in the dental office, you can usually find me spending time with my family— boating, fishing, or simply enjoying time together at home. I also enjoy lifting weights, tackling the occasional home project, and curling up on the couch with a good book and my “girls,” Maggie and River. I’m always looking for my next great read, so please feel free to share a book recommendation when you come in for your appointment!
I am a member of the American Dental Association and the North Carolina Dental Society. I am proud to be part of the amazing team at A Beautiful Smile and look forward to building lasting relationships with my patients while providing exceptional, compassionate dental care.
Samantha
Office Manager & Insurance Coordinator
Hi there, I’m Samantha! I’m originally from the Midwest and was born and raised in the suburbs of St. Louis. I graduated from high school in 2005, and since then life has taken me to Oklahoma, Hawaii, Iowa, and eventually Eastern North Carolina, where I planted my roots in 2017.
My greatest joy in life is my two wonderful children. My daughter, Kierstyn, graduated from Dixon High School in 2025 and now attends ECU. She is currently working toward her degree and plans to continue her education to become a chiropractor. My son, Blake, currently attends Dixon High School, where he stays busy with athletics, and he also competes on OCSA’s National Team.
One of my absolute favorite things has been watching my children grow, excel in both athletics and academics, and become the amazing young adults they are today. Being their mom—and cheering them on through it all—is something I’m incredibly proud of.
When I have free time, you’ll most likely find me somewhere near the water! I love sunshine, boating, and collecting treasures along the beach. And when I can’t be in the sun, I’m usually up for just about any adventure. I simply enjoy getting out, having fun, and making the most of life!
I joined A Beautiful Smile in the fall of 2017, and I truly couldn’t have asked for a better team to work alongside. I’m incredibly grateful for the people I work with and so happy to be a part of the A Beautiful Smile family!
Krissy
Dental Hygienist
Hi my name is Krissy! I was born in the Philippines and grew up in Okinawa, Japan due to my father being in the military. I returned to North Carolina shortly after graduating Highschool and met my soulmate/husband here in Jacksonville while he was stationed at Camp Lejeune, the rest is history! We have 5 beautiful children, 1 boy and 4 girls.
I enjoy spending time with my family, cooking, reading, gardening, traveling, and attending our church.
I have been in dentistry for 28 years, and I’ve loved every second of it! I started out as a Dental Assistant and continued to become a Dental Hygienist graduating from CCCC. I actually had the pleasure of working with Dr. Mancini as a Dental Assistant while I was attending CCCC for Dental Hygiene school, and then filling in as a Hygienist once I graduated! I absolutely love working with Dr. Mancini and I am so happy to be a part of A Beautiful Smile!!
Tricia
Dental Hygienist
Hey ya’ll!!
My name is Tricia, and I was born a military brat in Hawaii. Being in a military family we moved around a lot, but Richlands, NC is my home. Go Wildcats!!! I graduated from Richlands High School in 1998 and then attended the Dental Assisting Program at CCCC. I went on to work as an orthodontic assistant while going back to school for Dental Hygiene. I graduated from CCCC, Dental Hygiene in 2002. I have been fortunate enough to have worked with Dr. Mancini since | graduated!
I married my best friend, Bill in 2003, and we have our amazing, Carly Paige, born in 2006. Family is my everything!!
I have been truly blessed with the most amazing family, both at home and work. As you will notice we are one big happy family here!
When I am not at work I enjoy spending time with family, traveling and soaking up the NC sun on the boat and camping!
Bree
Dental Hygienist
Hey everyone. My name is Bree and I’ve been a dental hygienist since 2013. I’m originally from Arkansas and moved to Jacksonville in 2009. I graduated with my Associate degree from Coastal Carolina Community College and later received my Bachelor degree from Southern New Hampshire University.
I am married with 2 daughters and 3 dogs (2 dachshunds and 1 pit bull). We love spending time doing anything active, including the gym and just being at home relaxing. We love sports and I am a HUGE Carolina Panthers fan.
God is the number one in our life and we strive to live in accordance to his word. We owe all glory and thanks to him.
I’m excited to be apart of this team and continue to provide the best care to our patients!
Laura
Registered Dental Assistant
Hello everyone, I’m Laura. I am an Onslow County native. I grew up in the Swansboro area but graduated from Richlands High School in 2005. My passion for people and education lead me to dentistry. I graduated from the Dental Hygiene program at Coastal Carolina Community College in 2013. I have spent most of my career working in the wonderful town of Richlands.
Outside of dentistry, I love spending time with my husband of 21 years and our 2 amazing boys. When I’m not working, you’ll usually find me relaxing at home or spending time in the garden.
I have truly enjoyed getting to know the amazing patients we have at ABS.
Megan
Dental Assistant
Hi my name is Megan. I am from Ohio, and I am the youngest of 4. I received my bachelor’s in education but then realized that wasn’t what I wanted to do. I then took a year off from school to figure out what I wanted to do. I decided I wanted to go to school for dental hygiene, but there was a waiting period, so I went to school for dental assisting to get my foot in the door. I graduated from dental assisting in 2012 and have never looked back, I’ve been assisting for 12 years now, and I absolutely love what I do. I moved from Ohio to North Carolina in 2014. I met my husband here who is from Richlands North Carolina, and we married in 2019. When I gained him, I gained my bonus daughter who is almost 13 and we have 2 girls together Emily born 2021 and Harper born 2024.
When I am not working I enjoy spending time with my family, walking/working out and being outside with my kids.
I am new here with A Beautiful Smile but so excited to join the team!!
Michaela
Dental Assistant
Hi there, my name is Michaela! I am originally from Rochester, New York and moved down to North Carolina with my husband Jake to escape the cold in 2018. When I’m not at the office you can find me baking, reading, and taking trips with our dog Ellie. I have been with Dr. Gina Mancini since 2021 and couldn’t be happier to be part of such an amazing team! I love being able to help people feel comfortable and helping them leave with a great dental experience!
Heather
Dental Assistant
Hello, my name is Heather! After receiving my education in San Diego, California, I became a Certified Dental Assistant in June 2003. I moved to North Carolina in June of 2004 and have been working for Dr. Gina Mancini for 20 years. My daughter, Taylor was born in 2006. She will be going to Boston University in the fall of 2024. I enjoy hanging out and walking my dog Cooper, spending time with my friends and family, being outside, reading and watching movies. I enjoy being a Dental Assistant and caring for our patients is my passion! I love working with Dr. Mancini and our awesome team.
Makenna
Patient Coordinator
Hey everyone! My name is Makenna! I was born and raised right here in Jacksonville, and I’m proud to call it home. Outside of work, I’m a true country girl who loves spending time with my friends, being outdoors, making memories. One of my biggest passions is drag racing, so you’ll usually find me at the track on the weekends! I’m also a proud dog mom to my Boykin Spaniel, Koe, who keeps me on my toes and always brings the biggest smiles. I love meeting new people, building relationships, and bringing a friendly, positive attitude wherever I go. I’m grateful to be part of this team and look forward to getting to know everyone!
Kennedy
Patient Coordinator
Hi! I’m Kennedy and I recently joined the practice and I’m so excited to be part of the team and get to know our patients and community.
I was born and raised in Charleston, South Carolina, and recently made the move to Jacksonville, North Carolina with my boyfriend, Jonathan, who is in the Marine Corps. Our little family also includes my dog, Grizz, and my cat, Bobo Beans.
Before entering the dental field, I spent 10 years as a cat groomer and co-owned a grooming business with my mom. Growing up on a rescue farm, I developed a lifelong love for animals, the outdoors, and caring for others. Those experiences taught me the importance of patience, compassion, and making people feel comfortable — qualities I’m grateful to bring with me into my role as a dental receptionist.
I’m looking forward to continuing to grow in the dental field and becoming a familiar, friendly face for our patients!













