About Alive Dental

We specialize in biological dentistry, which means we focus on the relationship between your oral health and your overall well-being.

As health innovators, we're on a mission to transform the dental experience and empower our patients, team, and entire industry. 

Our signature Inner Glow methodology consists of three steps:

Illuminate

Collaborate

Revitalize

Visit our process page to learn more.

Putting you first.

Our goal is to make sure you feel valued and understood every step of the way. We take the time to listen to your concerns, understand your needs, and create a personalized plan that is tailored to your unique situation. 

Our focus is on your comfort and well-being, and we work tirelessly to ensure you feel relaxed and at ease during your visit. Plus, we use the latest technology and techniques to ensure you experience less pain and heal quickly.

Every patient is different.

We honor your preferences and involve you in the process so that you can understand what's going on and how things are improving. Our team is committed to making sure you feel seen, heard, and respected every time you visit. 

We empower you with the knowledge and tools you need to keep your mouth healthy, which means less dentistry in the future. You can trust us to catch problems early and help you avoid painful, expensive issues down the road.

About the Team

Dr. Sharla Aronson

Founder Dentist

I strive to build strong relationships with my patients and create a comfortable environment throughout their dental journey.

Meet Dr. Sharla Aronson, a warm-hearted dentist who is passionate about making a positive impact on people's lives. Married to her high school sweetheart, Chris, and blessed with two beautiful daughters, she understands the importance of family and cherishes every moment spent with her loved ones.

From a young age, Sharla felt a deep calling towards dentistry. A childhood incident, where she endured a broken maxilla from a baseball bat accident, not only sparked her interest in the field but also introduced her to the incredible power of compassionate dental care. The dentist who skillfully treated her not only healed her injury but also ignited a fire within her to pursue dentistry as a lifelong career. Since then, Sharla has been driven by her genuine desire to help others and improve their oral health.

Sharla's journey into biologic dentistry began after the birth of her first child, who was born with hearing loss. This life-changing experience led her to explore alternative approaches to health that delve deeper into finding the root causes and promoting preventive measures. Biologic dentistry strongly resonated with her values, as it places great emphasis on eliminating harmful infections and tailoring treatment plans based on each patient's unique biology.

As a practitioner, Sharla believes in treating each person as an individual, honoring their unique qualities and needs. Building strong relationships with her patients is of utmost importance to her, and she strives to create a comfortable and informative environment throughout their dental journey.

Always eager to expand her knowledge, Sharla continues to learn and grow in the field of dentistry. She completed her undergraduate studies at Nebraska Wesleyan University, followed by dental school at the University of Colorado. She furthered her education and expertise through a residency at the Veterans Hospital in Palo Alto. In 2019, she completed Holistic Dental Education, gaining a deeper understanding of comprehensive and natural approaches to dental care. Sharla also holds a SMART certification from the IAOMT (International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology) and completed the Biodentist Way Training in 2022.

When she's not busy caring for her patients or pursuing her passion for dentistry, you'll find Sharla immersed in her favorite hobbies. She has an insatiable appetite for knowledge and enjoys diving into books and podcasts that expand her horizons. Sharla also finds solace and joy in nature, whether it's tending to her vibrant garden, perfecting her golf swing, or simply taking leisurely walks outdoors. Yoga and sauna sessions help her find balance and relaxation, supporting her commitment to holistic well-being.

With her friendly demeanor, genuine care for her patients, and dedication to staying at the forefront of dentistry, Dr. Sharla Aronson is not only a skilled dentist but also a trusted friend. Her continuous pursuit of knowledge and passion for biologic dentistry ensure that her patients receive the highest quality of personalized care, based on respect, understanding, and a holistic approach.

Dr. Azhar Ahmed

I am a firm believer in patient-centric outcomes; ensuring that my patients are well-informed
and empowered.

Associate Dentist / DDS

Dr. Azhar Ahmed was born in the vibrant city of Dubai and raised in the culturally rich landscapes of India, Dr. Ahmed's journey in dentistry has taken him across continents, enriching his skills and passion for patient care.

In 2010, Dr. Ahmed earned his Bachelor's in Dental Surgery, laying the foundation for his remarkable career. Seeking new horizons, he embarked on a journey to the United States, where he obtained a Master's in Healthcare Administration from the esteemed California State University, Hayward. Undeterred by challenges and fueled by his unwavering dedication to dentistry, he achieved his DDS from the prestigious University of Southern California in Los Angeles in 2017.

Having practiced in the heart of Texas around Lubbock for four fruitful years, Dr. Ahmed, along with his beloved wife, decided to embrace the allure of beautiful Colorado. In 2022, they settled in the vibrant community of Boulder, where Dr. Ahmed set out to bring his expertise and gentle touch to the local dental landscape.

Dr. Ahmed's passion for excellence and patient care led him to pursue a year-long continuum in Implant Dentistry under the guidance of the esteemed American Academy of Implant Dentistry. With a focus on surgical and restorative dentistry, he provides a collaborative, evidence-based approach to meet his patients' unique needs and desires. A firm believer in patient-centric outcomes, Dr. Ahmed ensures that his patients are well-informed, empowering them with the knowledge needed to prevent diseases and promote lasting oral health.

Beyond his dedication to dentistry, Dr. Ahmed nurtures his passions and hobbies. An avid tennis player, he embraces friendly competition, participating in local tournaments and leagues. In his cherished moments of relaxation, he delights in spending quality time with his newborn, embracing the joys of parenthood. Dr. Ahmed's connection to nature is evident as he explores the great outdoors, finding solace and inspiration in the beauty of Colorado's landscapes.

  • Emily O.

    REGISTERED DENTAL HYGIENIST (RDH)

    Emily is a dedicated dental professional with a strong commitment to patient care and oral health education. Originally from Littleton, CO, she has established herself as a trusted dental hygienist and oral healthcare advocate. Emily's journey in the field of dentistry began when she obtained her dental hygiene degree from Laramie County Community College (LCCC) in Cheyenne, WY in 2004. Motivated by her passion for dentistry, she pursued further education, earning an undergraduate degree from the College of Dentistry at the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) in 2009.

    Throughout her career, Emily has strived to empower her patients by enhancing their knowledge of oral health. She firmly believes that education is key to maintaining optimal dental hygiene and preventing oral diseases. With a gentle and compassionate approach, Emily has built long-lasting relationships with her patients, ensuring their comfort and satisfaction during every visit. Her commitment to providing comprehensive care is evident in her attention to detail and her ability to tailor treatment plans to meet individual needs.

    Beyond her professional endeavors, Emily finds joy in various pursuits. She relishes spending quality time with her husband on their farm, embracing the serene beauty of nature. As a resident of Colorado, she takes advantage of the breathtaking mountains, frequently embarking on exploratory adventures. Additionally, Emily appreciates the craft beer culture in Fort Collins, indulging in the vibrant local scene.

    Emily's dedication to her patients, her thirst for knowledge, and her love for the outdoors and community make her a remarkable dental professional. She continues to inspire those around her through her commitment to oral health and her ability to foster lasting relationships with her patients.

  • Jennifer M.

    REGISTERED DENTAL HYGIENIST (RDH), MYOFUNCTIONAL THERAPIST

    Jen is a highly skilled and dedicated professional in the field of dental healthcare. As a registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) and Orofacial Myofunctional Therapist (OMT), she combines her expertise in oral health with her passion for holistic and biological dentistry. With an unwavering commitment to improving the well-being of her patients, Jen thrives on finding the underlying causes of dental issues and assisting individuals in achieving optimal health.

    With years of experience as a dental hygienist, Jen possesses a deep understanding of the complexities of oral health and the impact it has on overall wellness. Her comprehensive knowledge allows her to provide personalized care and guidance to her patients, ensuring that they receive the highest quality of treatment and preventive measures.

    As an Orofacial myofunctional therapist, Jen specializes in addressing oral and facial muscle dysfunction. She is skilled in assessing and treating various orofacial disorders, including tongue thrust, improper swallowing patterns, mouth breathing and improper tongue position. Through her therapeutic interventions, Jen helps her patients develop healthy orofacial habits, enhancing their oral function and overall facial aesthetics.

    Jen's enthusiasm for biological dentistry is evident in her practice. She is deeply intrigued by the philosophy of treating dental problems by considering the patient's overall health and well-being. With a focus on identifying the root cause of dental issues, she strives to implement treatments that promote long-term oral health, while minimizing the use of harmful substances and materials.

    Outside of her professional pursuits, Jen enjoys spending quality time with her family and engaging in outdoor activities. Hiking, camping, and skiing are among her favorite hobbies, which she shares with her children. These activities not only help her unwind and stay physically active, but also foster her love for nature and the outdoors.

  • Jessica D.

    EXPANDED DUTY DENTAL ASSISTANT (EDDA)
    PHLEBOTOMIST

    Introducing Jessica, an exceptional Expanded Duties Dental Assistant (EDDA) who brings a holistic approach to her work. Born and raised in Fort Collins, Jessica has always been drawn to a more comprehensive and natural way of caring for patients' oral health. Her passion lies in collaborating with like-minded individuals who value a holistic approach to dentistry.

    As an EDDA, Jessica's expertise extends beyond traditional dental assisting duties. With her skill set, she is capable of placing fillings, allowing her to contribute to the restoration and enhancement of her patients' smiles. Jessica takes great pride in her meticulous work and finds joy in seeing the positive impact it has on her patients' lives.

    One of Jessica's greatest strengths lies in her ability to educate and empower her patients. She understands the importance of equipping them with the knowledge and tools necessary to maintain optimal oral health. With her warm and compassionate approach, she takes the time to ensure that each patient feels heard, understood, and supported throughout their dental journey.

    Outside of her professional life, Jessica is a proud mother to her vibrant five-year-old daughter. She finds immense fulfillment in her role as a parent and cherishes the precious moments they share together. When she's not busy caring for her patients or being an amazing mom, Jessica immerses herself in her other interests.

  • Kendra H.

    NEW PATIENT COORDINATOR

    Meet Kendra, an accomplished and dedicated member of our dental team with an impressive 27-year career in dentistry. Starting as a dental assistant, with a certification as an E.D.D.A (expanded duties dental assistant) and now serving as one of our front desk treatment coordinators.

    With her extensive background in dental care, Kendra possesses an in-depth understanding of the intricacies of various dental procedures and treatments. She skillfully manages patient scheduling, treatment planning, and insurance coordination, ensuring that every patient receives the utmost care and attention.

    Effective communication and patient education are essential in creating a strong partnership with patients. “When I am able to share principles of biological dentistry during treatment planning, I can empower patients to make informed decisions about not only their oral health, but hopefully their overall health. Investing in yourself is something to value.”

    When she isn’t in the office, she’s probably in her kitchen creating something delicious for someone with a sweet tooth or perfecting pizza. She has been married to her husband Jon for 28 years and has a 20-year-old daughter, Peyton, who will be a sophomore in college this fall. Her rescue pup, Nyx has captured her heart and has made walking a part of every day, non-negotiable. Her family keeps her busy, grateful and laughing.

  • Vanessa V.

    OFFICE MANAGER

  • Rachel K

    DENTAL ASSISTANT (DA)

    Rachel is a proud Colorado native who enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband, two children, and three dogs.

    She began her journey in the dental field after graduating from the Dental Assisting program at Front Range Community College in 1999. With over two decades of experience, Rachel has developed a deep passion for biological dentistry, particularly in witnessing the transformation of her patients' health after replacing amalgam fillings with non-toxic, biocompatible materials. She is highly skilled in assisting with a variety of dental procedures and is dedicated to maintaining a clean, safe environment.

    Rachel excels in providing patients with empathy, comfort, and clear communication, ensuring a positive experience at Alive Dental.