HIGHLAND FAMILY DENTAL - Key Persons


Christina Balde

Job Titles:
  • Expanded Functions Dental Assistant
I was originally born and raised in Tennessee, but I grew up moving from state to state as a military dependent. I have always learned best from hands-on experiences and jobs, which is how I found myself in the dental field. I reached my peak as an Expanded Functions Registered Dental Assistant after over a decade in the field, and I am still in love with dentistry and being part of our patient's smile journey. Besides dentistry, I am also passionate about healing, thriving, and growing into the best version of myself through gut health, mindset work, and fitness. I think that it is very important that we take care of the one body we have so that we can live our best lives. I also enjoy using my tools and resources to help others on their own self-healing journeys. In my free time, I like to find moments of joy by taking myself out for country line dancing (lessons and social dancing), as well as west coast swing. I thrive on sunshine, experiences, and adventures.

Dr. Rachel Carlson

Job Titles:
  • Special Kind of Dentist
  • Your Dentist in Pleasant View, TN
"Hello, I am Dr. Rachel Carlson, and I want to welcome you to our dental practice. My dental team and I understand that we are here to serve your needs, not the other way around. That is the mission that drives us to offer the highest level of dental care that we can every day. I invite you to come visit our office and see for yourself why our patients are pleased to call Highland Family Dental their dental home." Dr. Rachel Carlson is a special kind of dentist. With her gentle, friendly, and caring style, she brings comfort to her patients and enjoys getting to know each patient on an individual basis. Through her comprehensive and conservative evaluations, Dr. Carlson ensures that each patient's dental treatment is good for long-term oral health. She strives to give her patients options that fit their budget and healthcare needs. Dr. Carlson welcomes the whole family to her new state-of-the art office. Nestled in the historic community of Pleasant View, TN, Highland Family Dental utilizes the latest in dental technology, such as digital x-rays that emit less radiation. Dr. Carlson attended Indiana University on a full athletic scholarship for Softball. She earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) at Southern Illinois University - School of Dental Medicine. Each year Dr. Carlson continues to attend extensive post-doctoral studies in clinical dentistry, enabling her to provide some of the latest advances in dental technology. She also participates in organized dentistry to stay abreast on dentistry and societal trends that impact teeth and have an effect on the entire body. In her spare time she enjoys horseback riding, sports and spending time with her husband Justin and their dog Neyland. Education Indiana University (BS) Southern Illinois University - School of Dental Medicine (DMD)

Eve Mehallow

Job Titles:
  • Dental Hygienist
Hello, my name is Eve Mehallow and I am Highland Dental's Hygienist. I have almost 25 years experience as a Dental Hygienist. My goal is to provide a thorough and compassionate dental cleaning experience. No matter how long you have been away, we are here to answer your questions and help you achieve a healthy smile. I am grateful to be a team member of Highland Family Dental. Our family and doggie moved to Coopertown, TN from Northwest Ohio in the summer of 2021, after my husband Jim was offered a great job opportunity in Nashville. My son, Austin attends college at Franciscan in Steubenville, Ohio. He is in a pre-nursing program right now.

Keaton Morrissey

Job Titles:
  • Lead Dental Assistant
I was born and raised in middle Tennessee, so naturally I love the outdoors and all that comes with it! I grew up playing competitive softball and volleyball as well as graduating top of my class. I am an expanded functions dental assistant who has been in the dental field since 2011. I have broad training in the dental field not only in general dentistry, but pediatrics, oral surgery, and orthodontics as well. Raised in a small town myself, I know the importance being able to make patients of all ages feel comfortable in a dental setting and to know that they are truly receiving the best quality care. I strive to be able to educate patients on their treatment and oral health as well as comfort those who may feel uneasy in the dental chair. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family and pets, listening to true crime podcasts, and relaxing by the water!

Raymond Mendez

Job Titles:
  • Office Manager
"Hello my name is Raymond Mendez, and I am so excited to welcome you to our family. As part of the management team my first priority will always be the patient experience. From the moment you walk in the door my goal is to ensure that you have a professional experience and that you feel appreciated. It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to the Highland Family Dental experience."