A Dental Team in Cary Who Really Care

Melissa

Registered Dental Hygienist

Melissa gained her education through Fayetteville Technical Community College with an associate’s in applied science in both Dental Hygiene and Nuclear Medicine.

After her own experience as a dental patient and her work in the medical field, Melissa realized the vital connection between oral health and overall well-being. Her passion for helping patients lead healthier lives led her to pursue a career in dental hygiene, where she believes she can make a meaningful impact.

In 2024, Melissa joined Genesis Dental, where she enjoys working with a supportive team and utilizing some of the latest advancements in dental technology.

Outside the office, Melissa enjoys home renovation projects, hiking, and attending her children’s sporting events. She loves spending time with her cats, Sushi and Nori, and her dog, Chief. Her favorite restaurants include Tacos Oaxaca, Sakura, and Thanks a Latte.

Karol

Patient Care Coordinator

Karolys, a.k.a. “Karol,” received her education from the University of Zulia in Venezuela and the Triangle Dental Assisting School. Karol has advanced training in dental radiology, SPICE, BLS, sedation, and dental radiology.

Karol wanted a change from her career in teaching ESL and Spanish to join the practice in 2022. She believes what sets Genesis Dental apart is the awesome team that works here.

Karol is in charge of checking patients in and out, collecting payments, scheduling, creating payment plans, filing insurance claims, checking insurance verification/eligibility, answering the phones, and communicating with patients and other offices.

Outside the office, Karol enjoys traveling, trying new restaurants, hiking, and exploring. Her favorite local restaurants are La Buena Vida and Esteamed Coffee, a coffee shop that employs individuals with disabilities.

Mai

Practice Manager

Mai was born and raised in Tokyo, Japan. She received her education from California State University, Northridge, and pursued advanced training in the Dental Business at Nash Institute. Mai pursued this path in 2020 to support her husband and Japanese patients in the Triangle Area. She believes that what makes Genesis Dental unique is that the staff takes care of their patients as if they were family.

Mai’s responsibilities include HR, payroll, bookkeeping, coordinating with the overseas admin team, patient care coordinator for Japanese patients, hiring, staff meeting, and evaluations.

Outside the office, Mai enjoys training for triathlons, practicing yoga and meditation, running with Jasper, and supporting the local Japanese community. Mai met Dr. Leedy while he was stationed in Japan with the Navy. They have been happily married for a decade!

Whitney

Certified Dental Assistant

Whitney received her education from the Triangle School of Dental Assisting, as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from ECU and an Associate’s degree in Culinary Arts. She also boasts advanced training in coronal polishing and sedation.

Whitney has always been interested in dentistry but took a different path to explore pastry and her love of food and cooking first. She enjoys helping patients achieve a healthier smile that they want to show the world.

Whitney joined the practice in 2021 and believes what makes Genesis Dental special is that the team members go above and beyond and that everyone is genuinely fun to be around.

Whitney’s responsibilities include reviewing and explaining treatment to patients and going over finances/insurance. She also assists Dr. Leedy during various procedures.

In her spare time, Whitney volunteers with TinyHero: Real Hope for CDH (congenital diaphragmatic hernia) to raise awareness and funds for families who have a loved one diagnosed with CDH.

Outside the office, Whitney enjoys spending time with her husband and two Shiba Inu pups, being outside when the weather is nice, traveling, cooking and baking, trying new restaurants in the area, and spending time with family and friends. Her favorite restaurants are Rey’s, Dashi, Mateo’s, and Noodle Blvd.

Asa Speight

 Japanese Interpreter / Floater

Asa joined Genesis Dental in April 2025 and brings a warm, welcoming presence to the practice. Her role includes sterilizing instruments, flipping rooms between patients, and serving as the team’s dedicated Japanese interpreter. With her help, patients who speak Japanese feel more comfortable and fully informed throughout their dental experience.

Born and raised in Saitama, Japan, Asa moved to the U.S. after graduating high school in Tokyo to pursue her education. She earned her degree from a junior college in Washington State, where she later met her husband. The two just celebrated their 20th anniversary in September 2024 and are proud parents of two teenage sons—and one adorable mini Sheepadoodle named Buster.

Asa loves being part of a dental office that brings more smiles to people’s lives. She finds joy in creating a supportive environment for patients and is especially passionate about removing language barriers for the Japanese community.

Outside of the office, Asa volunteers regularly with the Nippon Club of the Triangle to help share Japanese culture. She enjoys traveling with her family, watching her sons’ baseball games, and exploring new restaurants with her husband.

Asa’s dental philosophy is simple: Brush, floss, and smile!