Dr. Sepi Taghizadeh
I graduated from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry in 1991. In addition to being in full-time practice, I was an Associate Clinical Professor at the University of Michigan until 1995.
I moved to Minnesota from Michigan in 1995, and was in private practice in St. Paul, Minnesota. I also taught at the Department of Cariology and Preventive Dentistry at the University of Minnesota as an Assistant Professor until 1998 when my son was born.
Isles Dental Associates P.A. has been my home base since 1998. I enjoy dentistry and seeing my patients and their families.
I live in Southwest Minneapolis with my husband, son and daughter. I enjoy cooking, hiking, traveling and taking continuing dental education classes. I am a member of the American Dental Association and the Minnesota Dental Association.
Melissa Thorne, RDH
I am the Dental Hygienist at Isles Dental. I started out my career as a Dental Assistant at an office in North Saint Paul. Dr. Sepi hired me right out of school in 1996 and I am proud to say we have worked together as a great team ever since. In 1999 I left Isles Dental to attend the 
Dental Hygiene program at Century College. There I received an Associate of Applied Science degree and Dental Hygiene license. After completing the program, I returned to the office as the full time hygienist. A position that I hope to keep until the day I retire.
I have truly loved getting to know my patients as individuals and watching families grow. These relationships are what make my days fun and keep my passion for this profession strong. I strive to make everyone feel comfortable in a place that most people feel very uncomfortable.
I currently live in Minneapolis with my husband and daughter. Outside of work, I like to spend time fixing up our home and yard. I also enjoy all the great bike trails in our community as well as the beautiful lakes. Also, book suggestions are always welcome.
Making that first appointment can often be the hardest step, but know that when you do so, you will be welcomed and cared for as if you were an old friend, which we hope you will be.
Susan Karius, RDA, CDA
I am a graduate of Hennepin Technical College with my Associate in Applied Science (AAS) for Dental Assisting. I am a member of the American Dental Assisting Association (ADAA) and take advantage of continuing education. I also return to HTC to help substitute teach Dental Assisting courses and talk to students.
I came to Isles Dental in 2009 and love being a part of the Uptown community. I enjoy working with people and getting to know our patients. I feel we have a dream team here at our office.
In addition to working with people, I enjoy working with animals and was a Grooming Assistant throughout college.
When I am not in the office, I am doing something outdoors whether it be hiking, playing hockey or traveling.
Dawn Miller, Office Administrator, CDA-RDA
I started with Isles Dental Associates in September of 2001. I am expecting to retire with Dr. Taghizadeh because she is the best employer, dentist and friend.
I attended the University of Minnesota, Duluth from 1984-1986. St. Cloud Technical Institute in 1988 and became a Certified and Registered Dental Assistant. I worked in a clinical office for twelve years and as an Office Administrator for ten years.
I live in Mounds View with my husband Gerald and have two daughters - Briana and Jessica. I enjoy gardening, landscaping, traveling, bird watching, walking and volunteering in the community.
I have grown close to several of our patients and consider each of them to be our friends, family and neighbors. My moto in life is to help others and believe honesty is the best policy.
We thank you for allowing us to take care of your dental needs and look forward to serving you.
Make an appointment today…..and experience dental excellence!