Meet Your Dental Express Team
Dr. Sydney Nanton
Clairemont
Dr. Sydney discovered dentistry as the perfect blend of engaging in hands-on work and helping others.
A path that led her to UCSF, where she embraced a patient-centered, prevention-focused approach and formed lifelong friendships. Integrity guides her practice, as she prioritizes honest, trust-building.
Outside the office, she loves traveling, exploring new restaurants, and spending time with loved ones. At Dental Express, she values the collaborative, supportive team environment, and credits her mother’s resilience and adaptability as her greatest inspiration in life and career.
Why did you become a dentist?
Growing up, I enjoyed hands-on activities that challenged my focus. I wanted a career where I could work with my hands while also helping people. Over time, I found dentistry. I used to watch Grey’s Anatomy and loved it, so I always knew I wanted to do something in healthcare. At first, I thought about being a surgeon, but I felt dentistry was a better it fit for me.
Where did you go to dental school?
I went to UCSF in the Bay Area, which I think is in one of the most beautiful, culturally rich areas with so much to explore. During dental school, I met incredible people—many of whom are now lifelong friends. UCSF also placed a strong emphasis on prevention, really listening to patients, and working together to meet their health goals. This philosophy has been a perfect fit for my own approach to dentistry and the way I care for people.
What are your passions outside of dentistry?
Outside of dentistry, I love to travel and explore new foods. Whether I’m trying out a new recipe at home or discovering a hidden gem in the city, I enjoy the adventure of new flavors and experiences. One of my most memorable trips was to Mexico City, where I had the chance to dine at three different Michelin-starred restaurants. Most of all, I value spending quality time with my family and friends.
What do you enjoy most about working at Dental Express?
I love being part of a team that works so well together. Our office has a welcoming, friendly atmosphere, and we’re all focused on the same goal—caring for our patients. Even on our busiest days, we support one another and make sure everything is done in a positive way that puts our patients first.
How do you help cultivate the Dental Express team and bring everyone together?
I focus on building strong relationships with both my patients and my team. I want every patient to feel comfortable and cared for—like family. The same goes for my coworkers; we support one another and work together with the shared goal of providing the best care possible.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
One of the highlights of my career has been caring for some of my own family members. Many of them once felt uneasy about going to the dentist, and being a familiar face helped restore their trust and bring them comfort. That experience reminds me every day how important it is to create the same sense of trust and reassurance for each of my patients.
Of Dental Express’ five core values (integrity, empathy, adaptability, collaboration, and whistle while you work) which do you feel is the most valuable to you as a dentist?
Integrity. In today’s world, there’s a lot of distrust in healthcare. At Dental Express, we do what’s best for the patient. We don’t over-diagnose or push treatment. We look at the patient’s goals and work toward them with honesty and care. That builds trust and helps patients feel confident that we truly have their best interests at heart.
What is your greatest challenge working as a dentist?
One challenge I’ve learned to embrace is letting go of perfectionism. Many of us in dentistry want everything to be just right, but every patient is unique, and things don’t always go exactly by the book. I’ve found that staying flexible and adaptable not only helps me grow but also allows me to give patients the best care possible.
Who is your hero and why?
My mom is my hero. She’s overcome so many challenges in life but never let her past define her future. She’s turned everything around and built a successful life for herself. Her adaptability and strength inspire me every day, and she motivates me to keep pushing forward.