Meet the Team
Meet the team that makes the magic happen!
Matthew Young DMD
Dentistry is a unique profession requiring a specific mix of personalities and interests. After practicing since 2013, I have refined what I think makes the best dental experience for my patients.
First, a dentist must be a meticulous, constantly striving for excellence in every form. My success is possible only with constant attention to every detail, with an ongoing effort to improve my work. This philosophy applies to a simple filling along with a full mouth rehabilitation.
Second, and one of the most important qualities I practice, is kindness. Kindness is never forgotten and will always be my personal and professional mantra. I treat my patients as I would want for myself or my family, and I practice this philosophy with every interaction. Kindness promotes comfortable, pleasant dental experiences for my patients.
Third, complete trust in my clinical judgement is imperative. Any patient could obtain multiple reasonable, good opinions about what is best for their care, many of which could be technically correct. My goal is to have your trust in my judgement to guide you through dental health together. I will always have your best interests in mind, and this guides my evidence-based treatment planning philosophy. By listening to your goals and striving to exceed your expectations, I hope to gain your trust as your dentist.
Fourth, I must help you keep your teeth for a lifetime. I pride myself with performing careful, thorough techniques using the best materials and never cutting any corners. I’ve pared down thousands of available dental products through extensive research and clinical practice into what I have confirmed as the superlative quality options. I take pride in knowing I did it the best I possibly can for you.
Finally, I pursue clear and concise communication and discussion with my patients daily, as this is what I believe provides the best care leading to optimal outcomes. Patients must understand their treatment fully. I firmly believe that without the best communication, care will be hindered.
I grew up in Portland and am a 7th generation Oregonian. I initially practiced with several large group practices in the greater Portland area. I then transitioned to starting Lovejoy Dental with a goal centered around my core principals highlighted above. I have two children, Logan who is six years old and Grant who is three years old. My wife Michelle is a Registered Nurse and in school to become a Nurse Practitioner.
I am in the process of becoming accredited by the American academy of cosmetic dentistry (AACD) to expand my skills and techniques. I am a member of the AACD, American Dental Association, Oregon Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the Multnomah Dental society. I frequently volunteer with Medical Teams International, providing care to underserved communities. I participate in the Give Back a Smile program with the AACD, providing dental care to victims of abuse and violence. I also lecture to Oregon State University dental students about the profession and provide mentorship.
I’m an avid skier and love searching for the best powder in the Pacific Northwest. I enjoy finding interesting rocks and my collection has grown over 10 years. My family is my number one passion.
Tyler Way DMD
Dr. Tyler Way was born and raised in Gladstone, OR. After graduating from Gladstone High School, he attended Oregon State University and earned his Bachelor of Science degree. Before graduation, he accepted a four- year Health Professions Scholarship from the United States Navy. He then went on to receive his dental degree at OHSU School of Dentistry where he graduated with honors as a member of the Omicron Kappa Upsilon Dental Honor Society. Following graduation, he went to Newport, Rhode Island for Officer Development School where he was commissioned as a Lieutenant in
the Navy.
Tyler went on to broaden his scope of practice by completing a one year Advanced Education in General Dentistry in Norfolk, Virginia. Following completion, he was stationed on the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman. While on board, he had the privilege of completing an eight month deployment to United States 5th Fleet (Persian Gulf) in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. After his time on board the USS Truman, Tyler received orders to 21st Dental Company on Marine Corps Base Hawaii (located on the beautiful island of Oahu).
After completion of his tour at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, he returned home to the Portland area where he has spent the past two years in a private dental practice. Tyler thoroughly enjoys all aspects of dentistry and is extremely committed to the profession. Continually seeking out continuing education courses, Tyler is working toward becoming a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry.
Tyler is married to his wife Michelle who is a Pediatric Nurse in Portland. Together they have three amazing, energetic kids. Their oldest (Brooklyn) was born while living on Oahu, followed by the twins (Lucas and Andrew) who were born shortly after moving back home to Portland. With 3 kids under the age of 3, Tyler no longer has anything that would classify as spare time. When he does find a moment or two, he enjoys mountain biking, snowboarding, golfing, and any activity involving a lake or river.
Jennifer O’Connor DMD
To me, my job as a dentist is about more than just teeth! I want people to feel confident in their smile, understand how to best take care of their teeth and total health, and get some relief from pain in the case of trauma or a tooth ache.
I have practiced dentistry for more than a decade. I knew I wanted to be part of a profession where I could learn a skill that would really help people, universally. Oral health is such an important part of one’s total body health and it’s rewarding to be part of a community that works to educate and help individuals improve their wellbeing.
I realize the dental office can induce a lot of anxiety, and it’s my desire that my patients feel at ease coming to the dentist, and know they have a team they can trust with their smiles!
Our practice values our patients’ opinions, desires, and limitations. We incorporate each person’s concerns into their personalized treatment plan, and are always respectful of their unique situation and preferences.
Our team is energetic, positive, hardworking, and knowledgeable! From the minute someone walks through the door, we want them to feel cared for and comfortable.
I was raised close by in Lake Oswego, Oregon, and graduated from the University of Oregon Clark Honors College with a Bachelor of Science. I then attended Oregon Health Sciences University for Dental School, received my degree in Dental Medicine in 2013, and was a part of the Paul Ambrose Scholars Program.
Oral healthcare is a constantly evolving field. To stay current, I participate in a number of continuing education programs, including courses at Spear Education, training at the Biomimetic and Advanced Adhesive Restorative Dentistry Institute, and am working toward a Fellowship at the Oregon Academy of General Dentistry.
I am passionate about volunteering with local groups, like Medical Teams International, the Mission of Mercy, and Feed the Mass, giving back to the underserved and homeless populations. I am a mentor for dental students through the Oregon Dental Association’s student Mentor Program.
I am an active member of the Academy of General Dentistry, the Oregon Dental Association, and the Washington County Dental Society, and serve on the Board of Trustees for the Oregon Dental Association, and as a co-chair on the School of Dentistry OHSU Alumni Leadership Council.
I met my husband while in dental school, here in Portland. My husband Kraig and I share our lives with a very energetic pup named Finn, and enjoy running half marathons and traveling together. When not working, I enjoy golfing, oil painting, cooking, and watching the Oregon Ducks football team.
Team Members
