Meet Our Dentists
SUSAN COUZENS, DMD
Dr. Susan Couzens received her dental degree from the University of Kentucky in 1995 and practiced dentistry in Danville, Kentucky for more than 25 years before relocating to Hilton Head, SC, to begin her next chapter. With a commitment to clinical excellence, she stays up to date with current research and continuing education, which allows her to implement use of the latest technology, materials, and techniques. In addition to membership in the American Dental Association, she is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine.
Education and Credentials
Dr. Couzens also has been certified by the American Academy of Facial Esthetics, due to her expertise in both BOTOX® and dermal filler treatments. By including cosmetic rehabilitative dentistry in her practice, she goes beyond making improvements in the health of her patients. She offers patients the opportunity for a beautiful, healthy smile and with it, a better quality of life.
Affiliations
- American Dental Association
- SPEAR Faculty Club
- CEREC
- DOC
- American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine
MARY ANN CHILDS, DMD
Originally from St. George, South Carolina, Dr. Mary Ann Childs brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the Couzens Dental Group. Upon graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy from the University of South Carolina in 1993, Dr. Childs began pursuing her passion for dentistry, earning her Doctorate of Dental Medicine from the Medical University of South Carolina in 2000.
Education and Credentials
Dr. Childs is fully committed to staying at the forefront of dental advancements and techniques. She has undergone additional training and education at prestigious institutions including the Pankey Institute, Dawson Academy, Eubank Teaching Institute, and has affiliations with professional organizations such as the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, American Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry.
About the Doctor
With almost 25 years of experience in dentistry, Dr. Childs joined the Couzens Dental Group in November 2023, bringing her dedication to transforming lives through comprehensive dentistry. She loves being able to witness the profound impact a healthy and beautiful smile can have on her patients’ lives, from enhancing functionality to boosting confidence and overall well-being. In addition,
Dr. Childs is passionate about advancing the field of sleep dentistry. Drawing from her experiences in Greenville, SC, where she owned a prestigious dental practice specializing in TMJ disorder and adult restorative dentistry, Dr. Childs became deeply involved in the study of airway and sleep breathing disorders. From this, she developed the Sleep Buddy – an innovative oral appliance designed to treat snoring and obstructive sleep apnea by increasing airway size and promoting nasal breathing.
Dr. Childs is happily married to her supportive husband Brad, and together they love spending time with their daughters Pressley Ann and Brooke. In her free time she indulges in hobbies like running, boating around picturesque Hilton Head Island, and getting together with friends.
Affiliations
- American Dental Association
MARTIN PAULS, DMD
Dr. Martin Pauls began practicing on Hilton Head Island in 1984. He loves practicing dentistry and is going to continue to treat patients alongside Dr. Couzens and Dr. Savarese. He grew up in the small town of Bethany, WV, attended undergraduate school at West Virginia University, and then on to the WVU School of Dentistry. Upon graduation in 1981, he entered the US Navy and proudly served three years as a dentist at Parris Island, SC where he came to love the Low Country.
Education and Credentials
Dr. Pauls has taken extensive continuing education courses in comprehensive dentistry and full mouth reconstruction with special emphasis on complex crown and bridge, implant, and cosmetic dentistry. He has been restoring implants and placing porcelain veneers for over 20+ years. He is a member of the American Dental Association, the SC Dental Association, and the Southeastern Academy of Prosthodontics and holds dental licenses in multiple states.
About the Doctor
Dr. Pauls is also a community leader. He is a 20+ year member of the Hilton Head Rotary Club and a multiple Paul Harris Fellow. He is a graduate of Leadership Hilton Head. For over 20 years, he has been on the board of directors and has twice been board president of the Island Recreation Association and was instrumental in pushing for the building of many of the public parks on Hilton Head. He has also been a member of the Hilton Head Sportfishing Club since its beginning. Dr. Pauls is a PADI scuba instructor and has a Coast Guard Captain’s License. He is an avid outdoorsman and enjoys all the hunting and fishing that the Low Country has to offer.
DIANNA LENICK, DMD
Dianna Lenick grew up in Northern New Jersey and pursued her passion for microbiology at the University of Maryland, graduating in 1979. She went on to earn a dental degree at the University of Maryland Dental School in 1983, and did her General Practice Residency in 1984. Dianna is a scholar of the L. D. Pankey Institute and an accredited member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. With more than four decades of experience in dentistry, she thrives on learning and solving complex dental cases. As an educator, Diana has had the privilege of being a visiting instructor at the Pankey Institute and an assistant instructor with Dr. Jimmy Eubanks. Outside of work, she enjoys her dogs, beach walks, and golfing with friends. Dianna shares a joyful life with her husband, two children, and grandchildren.
Meet Our Team
Lauren W.
Registered Dental Hygienist
Lauren blends dental know-how with great communication, thanks to her degree in dental hygiene and a minor in communication from West Virginia University. Originally from Western PA, she now lives in Bluffton and embraces coastal life to the fullest. She’s a marathon runner, beachgoer, and adventure-seeker who loves traveling and spending time with her husband and their golden retriever.
Shawn P.
Registered Dental Hygienist
Shawn has been helping patients feel comfortable in the dental chair for over 30 years. Originally from Michigan, she moved to Hilton Head Island in 2024 and quickly made it feel like home. When she’s not at work, you’ll probably find her cheering on University of Michigan football or basketball, relaxing at a campsite, diving into a good book, or working on home projects. She’s been married to her husband Matt for 29 years, and together they’ve raised three grown kids who keep their family bond strong.
Mary Lynne R.
Registered Dental Hygienist
Mary Lynne’s path has taken her through cities like Cincinnati and St. Louis, thanks to her dad’s work as a chemist—but it’s dental hygiene that’s been her lifelong calling. She earned her degree from the University of New England and has spent over 40 years helping patients understand the connection between oral and overall health. She’s big on gardening, nutrition, and weekend adventures with her husband Pat, whom she’s been married to since 1982. Grounded by her faith, Mary Lynne brings warmth and wisdom to every visit.
Sharon T.
Registered Dental Hygienist
Sharon has been caring for smiles in Hilton Head for over 20 years. She’s known for her gentle approach and for helping patients build healthy habits at home. Her expertise includes everything from X-rays to oral cancer screenings, but her favorite part of the job is building real relationships. Outside the office, Sharon enjoys time with her husband Jack, her granddaughter Samantha, daughter Nikki, and her spunky dog Romeo. She loves baking (especially candy!), cooking, beach trips, and travel.
Leslie L.
Dental Assistant
Leslie grew up in Bluffton and brings warmth and energy to every patient interaction. As an expanded function dental assistant, she keeps things running smoothly—and stays powered by coffee. Her favorite role, though, is being mom to her 5-year-old son Santiago. She also shares life with her supportive boyfriend and loves helping out at her family’s Mexican bakery in Hilton Head, where tradition and community are always on the menu.
Natalie W.
Registered Dental Assistant
With 20 years of dental experience, Natalie brings steady hands and a calm, friendly presence to every appointment. She’s passionate about helping patients feel at ease and takes pride in the little details that make a big difference. Outside the office, Natalie loves to cook and is always trying out new recipes to share with family and friends. Her mix of experience and warmth makes her a valuable part of the team.
Sandrika S.
Registered Dental Assistant
Sandrika is a Beaufort native with 12 years of dental experience and a drive to keep growing—she’s currently working toward her hygiene license. A proud mom of two girls, she juggles her career goals with family life and still finds time to travel whenever she can. Sandrika brings a calm presence and genuine care to every patient she works with.
Cheramie S.
Patient Care Coordinator
Originally from Cebu City in the Philippines, Cheramie brings a spirit of kindness and curiosity to everything she does. With a background in computer science and a heart for helping people, she’s a natural at keeping things running behind the scenes while supporting our patients. Outside of work, she enjoys time with her husband Rick and their two kids, whether they’re out exploring or just relaxing together. She’s driven by a love of learning and a deep connection to her roots.
Jennifer T.
Patient Care Coordinator & Marketing Coordinator
With 20 years in the dental world, Jennifer keeps the office running and the team connected. She’s originally from South China, Maine, and now lives in Groton, CT with her husband, a Navy vet who served 20 years on submarines. Jennifer’s the go-to for planning fun office events, and outside of work, she loves beach days, gardening, and cheering on her son at University of Miami football games.
Linda J.
Hygiene Coordinator
With 45 years in dentistry, Linda brings deep experience and a big heart to her role. She lives in Georgia and loves helping patients stay on top of their oral health schedules. Outside of work, Linda enjoys walking on the beach, watching movies, and spending time with her three kids and nine grandkids (including her very first great-grandchild!). She’s known for her kindness and always makes patients feel welcome and cared for.
Melisa D.
Patient Care Coordinator
Melisa has been in dentistry for over four decades and still loves what she does. As a scheduling coordinator, she’s often the first friendly voice our patients hear. She’s all about building strong patient relationships and making sure oral health is a priority. Outside of work, she enjoys boating, gardening, reading, and soaking up time with her grandchildren. Melisa brings calm, care, and a lot of heart to our team.
Gianna S.
Office Manager
Gianna grew up in Indiana and spent many years in Kansas City before finding her way to Bluffton in 2017. She keeps the office organized and upbeat, all while balancing life as a mom to Alex and Maddox and a wife to Bryan. Gianna loves hiking, camping, and giving back—especially through her work with the Girl Scouts, where she’s a troop leader and rock wall coordinator at camp. She’s all about community, both inside and outside the office.
