Meet The Doctors

Carol O'Brien, DDS

Hello, and welcome to my practice! I'm Dr. O'Brien, and I truly love being a dentist. I enjoy meeting new people and becoming a part of their lives, while helping to maintain and improve their oral health. I see people from all backgrounds and ages, and it is fun to be able to connect with each patient. Even in the question of UW vs. WSU, I can say I'm BOTH a Dawg and a Cougar!

My education is as follows:

• Washington State University – Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil Engineering
• University of Washington – Doctorate of Dental Surgery

Although I finished with my formal education years ago, I feel it is vital to stay up to date on emerging dental technology and practices. That is why I am involved multiple dental study clubs: The Dental Collegium Study Club, a local Spear Study Club and the Tacoma Implant Study Group.  I am also a member of the Pierce County Dental Society, the Washington State Dental Society and American Dental Association

In addition to practice management courses, I also take ongoing courses in aesthetics and dental cosmetics. I enjoy my continuing education as it challenges me to grow and keeps me updated on the latest dental advances, so that I may pass on the best possible services to my patients.

I grew up in the northwest and am proud to call Washington my home. We live in a beautiful area! University Place and Tacoma has changed a lot in the past few years, and I'm honored to be a part of this community as it changes and grows. I hope you'll become a member of my family of patients.

---

 

Leif Rasmussen, DDS  Olympia Office

 

 

Leif Rasmussen is an associate dentist with deep roots in the Pacific Northwest. Born and raised in Tacoma, Washington, he developed a strong connection to the region early in life and has remained closely tied to it throughout his career.

He completed his undergraduate studies at Washington State University, earning a degree in Biology, before continuing on to the University of Washington School of Dentistry, where he earned his DDS. His education provided a strong foundation in both the science and clinical practice of dentistry, shaping a patient-focused approach to care.

Following dental school, Dr. Rasmussen went on to build a long-standing career in private practice. He owned and operated a dental practice on Vashon Island for 20 years, serving the local community with comprehensive general dentistry. Over those two decades, he developed extensive experience in restorative and preventive care while building long-term relationships with patients and families.

In recent years, he completed mini-residencies at Tufts University in Craniofacial Pain and Dental Sleep Medicine, expanding his clinical expertise to include the diagnosis and management of temporomandibular disorders, orofacial pain, and sleep-related breathing disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea.

Today, as an associate dentist, he brings that expanded training together with decades of clinical experience and a community-centered approach to patient care. Outside of dentistry, he is married and has two sons.

 

---

 

Maya Drangsholt, DDS  Univerisity Place Office

 

 

A Michigan native at heart, Dr. Maya Drangsholt came to the Pacific Northwest for dental school at Oregon Health & Science University in Portland! After graduating in 2022, she settled in Tacoma with her husband, a Washington native she met during dental school.

 Dr. Maya is passionate about creating a warm, welcoming environment where patients feel comfortable, understood, and truly cared for. She believes great dentistry starts with trust and connection, and she takes pride in building lasting relationships with her patients.

 Committed to lifelong learning, Dr. Maya regularly pursues continuing education to stay current with the latest advancements in dentistry and provide thoughtful, high-quality care tailored to each individual. Her approach blends function and esthetics to create healthy, confident smiles that feel as good as they look.

Outside the office, Dr. Maya loves spending time with her family and friends, staying active, and taking advantage of everything the Pacific Northwest has to offer.

---