Meet The Thompson Family Dental Team
Introducing Dr. Jiyun Thompson
Dr. Thompson’s journey to becoming a dentist in Indianapolis:
“My interest in dentistry began at an early age by watching my uncle, who is a dentist in Korea. He was very involved in the dental community and served as president of the Korean Dental Association for multiple years. I loved watching him help patients, and I couldn’t deny the interest in the field. During my journey as an international student in the U.S., my interest in dentistry only grew and was confirmed as I explored a different healthcare field through an EMT certification program and community service. I volunteered at various dental offices in Indianapolis to expand my experience and knowledge, as a pre-dental student at Butler University and eventually became a chairside-trained assistant. After completing my doctorate degree from Indiana University School of Dentistry, I started my career working with many wonderful dentists as an associate. I was very fortunate to work at a practice with different specialists, which taught me the multidisciplinary approach to dental health and how important it is to solve patients’ concerns and needs through comprehensive care. My journey into dentistry began there, and it continues now at my office on a day-to-day basis, living my dream!”
What is the best part of your job?
“One of my denture patients sent me flowers with a sweet note saying, ‘Dr. Thompson, Thank you so much for providing this Mother of the Bride with a confident & beautiful smile in time for my daughter’s wedding! You are my hero!’ I love the fact that not only can I help patients with their health concerns, but I can also help their confidence. Another thing about my job that I LOVE is that I get to be part of my patients’ lives! We laugh and cry together. We get to celebrate good times and share the tough times in our lives together. Besides being able to create beautiful smiles for people, I get to build these relationships with my patients. They truly become like my family.”
“I am originally from South Korea. I came to the U.S. as an international student by myself at age 15. Looking back, I was somewhat naïve and driven to make that decision, and hopped in the plane to begin that journey; it was a long and challenging journey I chose, but I learned life lessons that molded me to be who I am today. I lived with multiple host families through my high school years, and adapting to live with different families exposed me to various cultures and taught me valuable lessons. I completed high school in Rhode Island and then attended Calvary Chapel Bible College for two years. During those two years, I did a lot of community service in California and went on multiple mission trips. I came to Indiana to attend Butler for my undergraduate degree and then applied to Indiana University School of Dentistry to complete my doctorate in dentistry. Now, I have a family of my own: my husband, Doug, our adorable kiddos Kai and Tekoa, and a cute dog Juno.”
How would patients describe you?
“Approachable, personable, honest, and caring; oh, and too picky with my work!”
What do you like to do outside the office?
“Music is a big part of my life – I love playing the piano, going to concerts, attending Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra events, traveling, reading, walking, hiking, and running with my family. I am also an avid cheerleader for my Butler Bulldogs Basketball team. Go Dawgs!!”
Who is your hero?
“My mom is my hero! She is a Godly woman who taught me life and what’s most important in life. She taught me what matters in life and how we treat each other with love and respect. She has been a single mom since I was six-years-old, and she is the one who always provoked me to dream big and work towards things in prayers and supplication. She is still my backbone as I am getting one step closer to my dream and goals. She will always be my HERO!”
What was the best day of your life and why?
“When my mom came to the U.S. to visit me for the first time. After so much of longing to be together (since I left Korea at age 15), it was a moment where I felt like I can finally have my two separate lives combined in one place. My mom finally met the people I’ve built relationships with and showed her everything I’ve accomplished. It was nice to hug her and hold her hands in the U.S.”
What flavor of ice cream would you be?
“Vanilla. I like the simple and soft touch of the flavor, yet never failing to evoke the peaceful satisfaction.”
Excelling For Your Dental Health
Meet the Rest of Our Amazing Dental Team
Expanded Functions Dental Assistant
I am married and have 3 children, 2 girls, and a boy. I am an alumnus of Ben Davis High School and still live in Wayne Township. I attended Indiana University for dentistry. I have been working in the dental field for 20 years. I always knew that I wanted to help people with their smiles and make them happy and confident. I have never considered doing anything else besides dentistry.
Previous Dental Experience:
- Been in the dental field for 20 years
- Been a dental assistant for 16 years
Educational Achievements:
- Graduated from IU School of Dentistry with an Associates in Dental Assisting
What do you like to do outside the office?
When not at work, I am usually playing with my husband and three children. We enjoy being outside hiking, camping or swimming. I am very active with our church and volunteer at the kids’ school.
What’s one item on your bucket list?
Travel to Paris with my family.
Patient Coordinator
How she end up liking dentistry? She always loved the happy environment of her orthodontist office.
She loves dentistry in general and started as a clinical assistant, but she truly loves customer service aspect of dentistry.
Patient Coordinator
I live in Noblesville with my husband Marc and three kids. I love the dental field because of the patients and all the personality diversities.
Previous Dental Experience:
- Worked in the dental field for over 15 years
What do you like to do outside the office?
Spending time with my family.
Expanded Functions Dental Assistant
I was born and raised in St. Petersburg, Russia and moved to America in 2009. I am an introvert with a big heart to care for people. Cat mom.
Previous Dental Experience:
- Been a dental assistant since 2012
Educational Achievements:
- Graduated with honors from Kentucky Dental Academy and attended University of Louisville School of Dentistry
Why did you choose dentistry?
I always knew I had the personality to help and care for patients. I chose dentistry because I was looking for a stable career in the medical field, and it gave me the ability to help people, love on them daily and watch them transform their smiles and overall health.
What is the best part of your job?
The best part of my job is every time a patient gets up and gives me a big hug after their procedure.
What aspect of your personality adds the most value to the office?
I am gentle, caring, and a good listener.
What do you do outside of the office?
I love spending time in the Word, traveling, rock climbing. I enjoy photography and everything artsy.
What would be the theme song of your life?
Scars by I AM THEY
Dental Hygienist
I grew up in Fort Wayne but currently live in Indianapolis, IN. I chose a career in the dental field because I love helping people keep their teeth for a lifetime.
Previous Dental Experience:
- Oral Surgery Assistant
Educational Achievements:
- Indiana Dental School
What do you like to do outside the office?
I like to hike, bike, and be outside.
Who is your hero?
Mother Teresa
What’s one item on your bucket list?
Hike in all the national parks.
Dental Hygienist
I am married and have one adult child. I grew up in a small town in northern Indiana. I have been involved in the dental field since I was in high school. I have always thought the human body is amazing! When looking at careers, I knew I wanted to be in healthcare. I love the interaction with my patients! I enjoy working alongside them to improve their dental health.
Previous Dental Experience:
- Been a dental hygienist for 32 years
Educational Achievements:
- Graduated from IU School of Dentistry with an Associate of Hygiene
What do you like to do outside the office?
I enjoy gardening and taking hikes. I love traveling and exploring new cultures.
What’s one item on your bucket list?
Travel to Vietnam.