Dr. Gregory W. Skeens Jr.
D.D.S.
Dr. Skeens majored in Biology at Cal State University San Bernardino, and then attended Loma Linda University dental school and graduated in 2001. He was the first in his class to finish all clinical requirements 6 months early, and became a faculty member at the dental school. Dr. Skeens attended dental school on an academic Navy scholarship and served 4 years as a Navy Dentist and a Naval Officer. After completing an advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) residency he volunteered to deploy on the USS Peleliu in 2003. While deployed, Dr. Skeens provided dental care for 2500 marines, as well as humanitarian dental care to the Indigenous people of Iraq and Africa. He was then the clinical director at Camp Pendleton which fulfilled his obligation to the Navy in 2005.
Dr. Skeens went on to purchase an existing, long term dental office in Encinitas from a retiring Dentist. Dr. Skeens belongs to the American Dental Association (ADA), California Dental Association (CDA), and San Diego County Dental Society (SDCDS). He also attends Patriot and IADI Study Clubs. He is very active and enjoys surfing, snowboarding, golfing, working out, hiking, running, and camping. His favorite book is “7 Habits of Highly Effective People”.
Our Team
Our exceptional, friendly staff is our greatest asset. Our dental assistants and hygienists are licensed professionals who pride themselves on staying on the cutting edge of dentistry and patient communication. They are excited about what they are doing, have high standards of quality and integrity, and are motivated to achieve the best results for our family of patients.
Our dedicated and motivated staff has one primary goal—your utmost comfort! We feel it’s important that you understand the treatment that you’ll be receiving so that you can relax during the procedure. Our staff is eager to answer any questions regarding your dental care. Please feel free to share with us your needs and concerns.
Iliana
Administrative Dental Assistant
Iliana is a Chicago native, raised in Los Angeles, lived in Spain and Virginia before finally settling down and calling San Diego home in 2003. Iliana’s dental experience began at Naval Station Rota Dental Clinic in Spain as a Certified Dental Assistant, where she assisted Dental Officers in taking care of Active Duty, Retirees and Dependents. She has been in the dental field since 1999, after 2 years, made the change to the administrative side of dental and joined the Skeens’ Team in 2021. When not working, Iliana enjoys long walks at Liberty Station along North San Diego Bay with her husband Aron, three kids – Andrew, Mia, Joseph and their fur baby, Eve. She loves cooking for her family, Jazz, piano music, collects Harbour Lights Lighthouses and recently rekindled a childhood hobby – ballet.
Sarah
Registered Dental Hygienist
Sarah has been in the dental industry since 1981 in which 17+ years has been working with Dr. Greg Skeens as a Registered Dental Hygienist. Her passion for dentistry goes beyond the clinical aspect and is more about helping patients achieve better overall health by focusing on their oral health. The social connection that she experiences with the patients is invaluable. For Sarah, it’s a wonderful perk of the job that she can learn about the patients as well as from them. When she’s away from the office, she enjoys the practice of yoga. Her favorite place to be is with her family and friends. The mantra she lives by, “Your health is your wealth.”
Lianna
Registered Dental Hygienist
A native of Prescott, Arizona, Lianna has called Encinitas home since 2008. She completed dental assisting school at Foothill College in Los Altos Hills, CA, in 2007 and worked as a Registered Dental Assistant primarily in Endodontics. Lianna has built a reputation as a Registered Dental Hygienist for her gentle touch, thorough cleanings, and ability to put patients at ease-especially those with dental anxiety. She stays up to date with continuing education and is passionate about oral-systemic health and helping patients build lifelong heathy habits. Outside of the dental office, Lianna enjoys life in Encinitas with her husband and two daughters. She loves spending time at the beach, staying active, cooking, traveling, and making the most of family time in the beautiful Southern California sunshine.
Lori
Registered Dental Assistant
I am a Registered Dental Assistant with over 31 years of experience in the dental field, with advanced training as a specialty assistant. I take pride in providing quality care and helping patients feel comfortable and at ease. As a single mother, I raised my children while building my career, which shaped my strong work ethic and compassion. I am also a proud grandmother of two grandsons, a role that brings me great joy. Outside of work, I enjoy refurbishing furniture, spending time with family, and creating warm, welcoming spaces. I love connecting with people and making others feel at home.
Alexis
Dental Benefits Assistant
Born and raised in North County San Diego, Lexi grew up with a natural connection to the dental field, beginning her career in dental offices alongside her mom, a Registered Dental Assistant. As our Dental Benefits Assistant, she supports the office team by researching patients’ dental insurance benefits, reviewing coverage details, and organizing important benefit information so our team can easily access it when needed. Outside of the office, Lexi is happiest near the ocean, traveling to new places, and spending time with her family and two cats. She enjoys photography, yoga retreats, and exploring Mexico whenever she gets the chance.
