At Steven W. Smith, DDS, PLLC, we value our patient relationships, making it our priority to deliver gentle compassionate care that you deserve. We work hard to make you feel at ease by providing exceptional patient care in a relaxed, convenient atmosphere. We strive to develop lifelong relationships with our patients by combining the latest dental technology with a professional and compassionate staff. The result is a beautiful, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime.
Our Mission
Our practice is working together to realize a shared vision of uncompromising excellence in dentistry.
To fulfill this mission, we are committed to:
- Listening to those we are privileged to serve.
- Earn the trust and respect of patients, profession and community.
- Exceed your expectations.
- Ensure a creative, challenging and compassionate professional environment.
- Strive for continuous improvement at all levels.
Dr. Steven W. Smith, DDS
Dr. Smith was born and raised in Salt Lake City, Utah. As a youth, he participated in several sports such as wrestling, soccer and ballroom dancing. He also learned to play the piano which is a hobby he enjoys today. He decided that he wanted to be a dentist while he was in HighSchool. His decision was influenced by his experience getting braces. He realized how much of a difference a good smile made in his self-esteem and social life and wanted to be able to help others improve their smiles. He met his beautiful wife Kenna while in High school and was married soon thereafter. They were blessed with 3 children, Teva 20, Olivia 16, Marcus 9.
Teva is currently a Junior at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He is pursuing a degree in Biology with a minor in chemistry, and also playing on the school's water polo team. He graduated from Dixon High School where he held the position of Senior class treasurer. While at Dixon, Teva was a student-athlete competing in the sport of wrestling while maintaining a strong GPA.
Olivia is currently a Senior at Dixon High School. She runs track and cross country and plays on the school's varsity soccer team. She enjoys soccer, reading and playing the bass clarinet for her school band.
Marcus is 9 years old and currently working on his masters of Pokemon battling degree while completing his minor in Yu-Gi-Oh combat theory. He enjoys anything Pokemon, Yu-Gi-Oh, Bionacle, or Mario related. He has recently started a mission in Minecraft and will be involved with that for the foreseeable future.
Dr. Smith attended Salt Lake Community College for his associate's degree and completed his dental prerequisites at the University of Utah. He attended the University of Michigan School of Dentistry in 2005 and was awarded a Doctorate in Dental Surgery in 2009. Following his graduation from dental school, he served 4 years as a Navy dentist before associating with a private practice in Leland, NC. He loves having his own practice in Sneads Ferry and helping those in the community in which he lives and has raised his family.
Dr. Smith has had the opportunity to become a member of the American Dental Association as well as the North Carolina Dental Association. He has participated in several continuing education courses and continues to participate in courses to remain current and on the cutting edge of new technologies and concepts in dentistry.
His hobbies include coaching wrestling, diving, racquetball, mountain biking, and being involved with his kids sports programs. He also enjoys gardening, playing piano and spending time with family and friends.
Dr. Dakota James Peachee
Dr. Peachee grew up in NC with his parents Jim and LaVee, and 3 siblings, James, Jennifer, and Christine. Growing up Dakota found special interest in several extracurricular activities including track & field, wrestling, painting, and fishing, although it was his track and field achievements that paved the way to a scholarship at High Point University where he studied Biology.
While attending HPU Dr. Peachee became the 2010 Jr National track & field Champion which qualified him to compete at the World Jr. Championship. In his final year he earned all-American status by placing in the top 5 at the NCAA championship finals in the 3000 meter steeplechase. It was also during his time at HPU where he found dentistry; a profession that fuses his artistic vision and high aptitude for learning with his passion for serving others.
While attending HPU Dr. Peachee met his wife, Lilla, who was a student athlete from Hungary on a full track and field scholarship. Lilla is an an entrepreneur performing business re-branding.
After graduating collage Dr. Peachee remained in North Carolina and worked as a chemist in R&D for two years until receiving acceptance to attend East Carolina University School of Dental Medicine where he graduated to become a licensed dentist. Dr. Peachee found passion in learning and performing all facets dentistry, which prompted him to become a General Dentist.
Dr. Peachee and his wife are very active and have always loved the Carolina coast so making the move was an easy choice. When Dr. Peachee is not providing dental care to the people of eastern NC, you can probably find him somewhere in the intercostal waterway fishing with his lovely wife Lilla!
Dr. Cathern Krupinski, DDS
Dr. Katie Krupinski was born and raised in West Virginia. She studied Biology and Chemistry at Wheeling Jesuit University and was granted her Bachelors of Science Degree in 2008. Dr. Katie received her Doctorate of Dental Surgery degree from West Virginia University in 2013. After dental school, Dr. Krupinski commissioned into the United States Navy and proudly served as a Dental Officer for over seven years. Her Navy career took her to Parris Island, SC, Okinawa, Japan, and Camp Lejeune, NC. In 2015, Dr. Katie won the 3rd Dental Battalion Clinical Excellence Award, distinguishing herself from her peers.
Dr. Krupinski is a member of the American Dental Association and the North Carolina Dental Society. She enjoys furthering her knowledge and skills in the always changing world of dentistry to better treat her patients. Dr. Krupinski’s focus is on comprehensive dentistry while educating her patients on the importance of oral health and its correlation to total body health. Dr. Katie and her husband, Patrick, married in 2013 and currently reside in Hampstead with their son, Declan.
Dr. Cathern Krupinski DDS has received AAFE training and certification to perform Botox and Xeomin injections and services.
Dr. Amanda Gill, DDS
Dr. Gill was born and raised in Alaska but moved to North Carolina in the early 2000s with her husband and son. She attended Wake Technical Community College for her associate’s degree and graduated with honors. Next, she went on to North Carolina State University, graduating number one in her class with a bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences and a minor in Classical Studies. After finishing her undergraduate work, Dr. Gill and her family spent five years enjoying the Arizona desert. She attended Midwestern University, first obtaining her master's degree in Biomedical Sciences, followed by her Doctorate of Dental Medicine, graduating with honors both times. After graduation, Dr. Gill was inducted into Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society, which recognizes clinical and academic excellence.
Dr. Gill takes pride in her gentle touch and ability to connect with her patients. She loves treating people of all ages and working together to help everyone achieve their healthiest, happiest smile.
When Dr. Gill isn’t caring for patients, she loves spending time outdoors with her family. She’s also an avid baker and enjoys riding bikes - even her dog likes to ride along. She and her family love the NC coast and look forward to enjoying all it has to offer
Dr. Victoria Shirley
Farewell and Best Wishes to Dr. Victoria Shirley
We are both saddened and excited to announce that Dr. Victoria Shirley will be leaving our practice. Dr. Shirley has been an integral part of our team, providing exceptional dental care and building lasting relationships with our patients.
Dr. Shirley’s journey to our practice started in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where she was born and raised. Her passion for dentistry led her to the University of Pittsburgh, where she met her husband and furthered her commitment to excellence in dental care. Graduating summa cum laude from Midwestern University School of Dental Medicine in Arizona, Dr. Shirley brought a wealth of knowledge and a compassionate touch to our practice.
Her dedication to staying at the forefront of dental technology has ensured that our patients received the highest quality of care. Outside of work, Dr. Shirley is an avid traveler and outdoor enthusiast, always exploring new places and staying active.
Dr. Shirley is leaving us to support her husband as he pursues his studies in oral surgery in Georgia. While we are sad to see her go, we are excited for the new opportunities and adventures that await them. We wish Dr. Shirley and her husband all the best in their future endeavors.
Thank you, Dr. Shirley, for your dedication, compassion, and the countless smiles you’ve brought to our practice. You will be greatly missed.
Dr. Lee Dickinson
Dr. Lee Dickinson was born and raised in Cary, North Carolina. Growing up, he enjoyed being active, participating in boy scouts, swim team, church ministries, volunteering, and international service trips. His passion for dentistry developed in high school when he had braces for four years. His orthodontist encouraged him to utilize his talents to bless and serve those around him.
In 2018, Dr. Dickinson graduated Suma Cum Laude from North Carolina State University with a bachelor’s degree in biology and a minor in nutrition. Immediately, he applied and was accepted to East Carolina University School of Dental Medicine, where he trained to become a licensed dentist. His achievements gained him recognition from the American Academy of Oral & Maxillofacial Pathology and the Academy of Dentistry International. He is currently a member of the American Dental Association, the North Carolina Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry.
Some of Dr. Dickinson’s hobbies include disc golf, working out, hiking, videography, and Spanish. He also enjoys playing his ukulele, traveling, and scuba diving.
Dr. Charlene Fickey, DDS
Dr. Fickey’s early years were spent in Cebu City, Philippines. She pursued her initial college teaching education at a renowned university in the Philippines and earned admission to the Recoletos Educational Assistance for Deserving Students (READS) which provided her with a full tuition scholarship and allowance assistance.
In 2012, Dr. Fickey decided to relocate to the United States, where she joined the teaching staff at Onslow County Schools. Previously, she had been an active participant in the Philippine Folk Dance school chapter and had been a part of the Teacher’s Dance Troupe. Additionally, she took pleasure in overseeing the Girl Scouts program and preparing her students for cheerleading competitions.
After dedicating seven years to teaching, Dr. Fickey felt inspired to embark on a new path, influenced by her volunteer work at the Mission of Mercy in North Carolina. She pursued her second undergraduate degree, a BS in Biology majoring in Molecular and Cell Biology, graduating Magna Cum Laude, from East Carolina University. Following this, she attended East Carolina University School of Dental Medicine and underwent rigorous training to become a licensed dentist.
Dr. Fickey’s diverse life experiences have uniquely equipped her to connect with patients of varying cultural backgrounds and age groups. She aims to provide outstanding dental care while minimizing anxiety and fostering a stress-free environment.
Dr. Fickey enjoys doing outdoor activities like gardening and exploring theme parks. She also loves spending time in the kitchen while she cooks/bakes for her family.
Dr. Nicholas Lenker, DDS
Dr. Lenker grew up outside our nation’s capital in Northern Virginia. He developed a love for science, sports, and the outdoors. Athletics became a huge part of his youth, playing both ice hockey and lacrosse at a high level. Drawn to the natural beauty of coastal North Carolina, he attended the University of North Carolina Wilmington as an undergraduate, where he received his Bachelor of Science degree in biology. Seeing the impact dental care had on patients’ lives, while volunteering with the UNCW Pre-Dental Club, he decided dentistry was the right profession for him. He went on to receive his Master of Science degree in physiology from North Carolina State University before pursuing his passion for dentistry. Dr. Lenker attended LECOM School of Dental Medicine in Florida for his Doctorate in Dental Medicine. Following graduation, he returned to Wilmington to start his career in General Dentistry.
Dr. Lenker met his wife, Mallory, while attending UNCW and they share a dog and two cats. Together they enjoy spending time with friends and family, traveling, and exploring North Carolinas natural wonders. Dr. Lenker is also an avid hockey fan and has played the sport at the position of goalie since the age of seven. In his time at UNCW he helped his team reach the ACHA Division III national tournament, becoming the first college in North Carolina to do so.
Dr. Lenker is an active member of the American dental Association and the North Carolina Dental Society. Dr. Lenker enjoys all aspects of general dentistry and is dedicated to helping his patients feel comfortable and confident about their smiles.
He looks forward to serving the people of coastal Carolina and taking care of your dental needs.
Dr. Richard Butler
Being born in Illinois to English parents, living his early years in Wales, then Canada, schooling in Nebraska, then settling in North Carolina, Dr. Butler has had a comparatively diverse past.
Dr. Butler earned his Bachelor of Science degree, majoring in Biology, from the University of Western Ontario in London, Ontario. He then began a Master's degree in Entomology at Southern Illinois University, then exchanged the study of insects for that of teeth when he attended Creighton University School of Dentistry, graduating in 1998.
Dr. Butler met his wife 34 years ago, where they both ran college cross-country and track. They have been married 28 years and have a grown son and daughter, who have recently graduated from NC State and UNC Chapel Hill, respectively. Dr. Butler and his wife continue to run, though not as fast :), and when not running with his wife, Dr. Butler can be seen running up and down the soccer fields, as he is an avid fan and is still playing in the local adult leagues.
When choosing Wilmington to start his dental career and raise his family, he knew he had found somewhere special. In 1999, Dr. Butler had the unique opportunity of being the founding dental director for the New Hanover Community Health Center, establishing a comprehensive dental clinic for the underserved of New Hanover County. During his tenure, he established numerous community programs, including educational partnerships with Cape Fear Community College dental hygiene and assisting programs and UNC dental school, providing internship opportunities and mentoring as an Adjunct Professor.
Dr. Butler then went on to establish his private practice in 2004, with the past 16 years being at the current location. He strives to treat everyone he meets, both professionally and otherwise, with kindness and compassion. As a patient, you can be assured he will always be attentive, conservative, gentle, and have your best interests at heart.
Dr. Duke Zander
Dr Zander was born and raised in New Orleans, near Tulane University. He moved to the West Coast as a
teen, growing up in Huntington Beach, CA and completing his undergraduate studies at the University of
Southern California. Dental school took him to UCLA, where he graduated with honors having earned
both his Doctorate of Dental Surgery as well as his Master of Business Administration from the Anderson
School of Management.
He began practicing dentistry in Los Angeles, but soon moved north to Sacramento, CA to follow his
wife’s acceptance to the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. They settled in the Foothills outside of
Lake Tahoe raising two daughters and a farm full of horses and goats and chickens, and of course a
menagerie of dogs and cats!
After 20+ years of practicing dentistry in California and owning two dental practices, a desire to return
to the ocean and for new adventures brought Dr Zander and his family to North Carolina in the Summer
of 2023. Now settled in Wilmington, he strives to treat all patients with the high level of care he would
want for his own family. Dr. Zander values a minimally invasive approach to dentistry that prioritizes the
individual needs and goals of each patient.
Outside of the office, Dr Zander enjoys spending time with his family, racing old sports cars, boating and
travel adventures.
Dr. Roberta Blazzio
Dr. Roberta Blazzio was born and raised in Brasília, the capital of Brazil. When she was 18, she moved to Orlando, where she attended the University of Central Florida and received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology, graduating summa cum lade.
Dr. Blazzio then moved to Chapel Hill, where she earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at the UNC School of Dentistry. There, she not only fell in love with North Carolina, but also with her classmate, and now husband, Adam.
Dr. Blazzio’s mission is to help her patients achieve and maintain a healthy smile. She is committed to educating her patients so they are empowered to make informed decisions about their care. She is compassionate, patient, a good listener, and provides care that is customized to each patient’s unique needs and desires.
Dr. Blazzio spends numerous hours attaining continuing education each year, including attendance at the prestigious Pankey Institute for Continuing Dental Education. She is also a member of the Cape Fear Dental Society, the North Carolina Dental Society, and the American Dental Association.
In her free time, Dr. Blazzio enjoys traveling the world and to national parks. She also enjoys doing pottery, Pilates, and spending time with her husband and their fluffy dog, Wally.
Dr. Sarah Crump
Dr. Sarah Crump graduated with the Doctor of Medical Dentistry (DMD) degree from East Carolina University in 2024. Previously awarded the Bachelor of Science degree, Summa Cum Laude in 2017 from North Carolina State University, with a minor in Psychology.
Dr. Crump considers Folsom, California as her childhood home, however she has also lived in Virginia, Iceland and Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Raised by military parents (Navy and Air Force) she possesses a strong work ethic, perfectionism and commitment to compassionate care. She realized early that her interests in biology and the natural world combined with an artistic perspective made her well suited for the profession of Dentistry.
When not at work, Dr Crump can be found enjoying nature through hiking, fishing and traveling. Additional interests include painting, nature photography and caring for her beloved Pug - Mahalo.