THE PEOPLE BEHIND AVID
Meet the Instructors
THE AVID DIFFERENCE
Experience You Can Learn From
The instructors at Avid Dental Academy bring years of clinical experience, industry knowledge, and a passion for teaching into every part of the program. By learning from dental professionals who understand the realities of today’s dental offices, students gain practical insight that helps connect what they’re learning to the career they’re preparing to enter.
More than sharing their expertise, our instructors are committed to helping every student grow through encouragement, mentorship, and guidance as they develop the skills needed to succeed in dental assisting.
Train Like a Dental Assistant
The Avid Dental Academy Team
Every instructor at Avid Dental Academy shares a commitment to helping students succeed. Get to know the dental professionals who will guide, support, and encourage you throughout your journey.
Samaria Mascagni
DDS, Owner
Dr. Samaria Mascagni brings more than 20 years of experience in general dentistry and a passion for developing the next generation of dental professionals. As the founder of Avid Dental Academy and Arkansas Family Dental, she has built her career around creating exceptional patient experiences, strong team cultures, and opportunities for others to grow. Her clinical experience includes general dentistry, Invisalign, dental implants, Botox and facial fillers, and IV sedation. Through Avid Dental Academy, Dr. Mascagni is excited to share the knowledge, skills, and real-world experience she has gained throughout her career while helping students build the confidence and foundation they need to succeed in dentistry.
Kayla-Ann Rudd
RDA
Kayla-Ann Rudd has been a Registered Dental Assistant since 2015 and brings years of hands-on clinical experience and a genuine passion for dentistry to Avid Dental Academy. As a trusted member of the Arkansas Family Dental team, Kayla-Ann plays an important role in training and mentoring many of AFD’s new dental assistants, making teaching a natural extension of what she already loves to do. She enjoys helping others build their skills, confidence, and knowledge while preparing them for successful careers in dentistry. Outside of the dental office and classroom, Kayla-Ann enjoys volunteering in her community and spending time with her children.
Angela Lehman
RDH
Angela Lehman has been a Registered Dental Hygienist since 2002 and serves as the Hygiene Director at Arkansas Family Dental. Her leadership role allows her to combine clinical experience with a passion for developing strong teams and supporting excellence in patient care. Angela also serves as Director of AFD Gives Back, Arkansas Family Dental’s nonprofit organization that provides free dental care to the community through its annual free dental day. Her commitment to education, service, and helping others makes her a natural fit for Avid Dental Academy, where she enjoys encouraging students as they prepare to begin their own careers in dentistry.
OUR COMMITMENT
More Than Just Instructors
At Avid Dental Academy, teaching goes beyond demonstrating techniques and sharing clinical knowledge. Our instructors are mentors who take the time to answer questions, offer encouragement, and support students as they grow into future dental assistants.
Their commitment extends beyond the program itself. By creating a welcoming and supportive learning environment, they help students develop the skills, professionalism, and mindset needed to begin successful careers in dental assisting.
Ready to Get Started?
Your Future Starts With the Right Team
The instructors you learn from can have a lasting impact on the career you build. Take the first step with Avid Dental Academy and learn alongside experienced dental professionals who are invested in helping you succeed.