Our Staff

The brief descriptions below are designed to familiarize you with our staff's training, professional credentials and work experience.


Richard S. Hughes III, D.D.S.
Dr. Hughes graduated with honors (OKU Dental Honor Society) from Fairleigh Dickinson University School of Dentistry. He subsequently served as a dentist in The United States Air Force, was appointed as a clinical instructor at Fairleigh Dickinson University School of Dentistry and served on peer review for the New Jersey State Board of Dentistry. He maintains his dedication to learning and enhancing his professional skills through ongoing continuing education courses through the country and abroad.

Irene Hughes
Irene Hughes is the office manager and also is a Registered Dental Hygienist with 28 years experience. Irene, as all staff members, follows a rigorous schedule of continuing education courses. She is available in both the Edgewater and Haworth offices.

Karina Figueroa
Karina holds the highest level certificate in dental assisting, that of Registered Dental Assistant.She has been with the office for over eight years and has in excess of twelve years experience.

Fran DeBenedetto
Fran is our financial coordinator and assistant office manager .She has extensive experience in business and is well versed in helping patient obtain full insurance benefits.

Claudia Calderone
Claudia is a Registered Dental Hygienist at the Edgewater office. Although new to our office in 2006 Claudia has become an integral member of the team and is receiving rave reviews from all her patients.

Tracy Kim
Tracy is a Registered Dental Hygienist in the Haworth office and as with Claudia is new to our office in 2006 and has also become an integral member of the team and receiving rave reviews from her patients.