Meet Our Dentists in St. Paul, Minnesota

At All About Dentistry, our team of experienced dentists is committed to delivering exceptional care with a personal touch. Each provider brings advanced training, compassion, and a focus on patient comfort to ensure your experience is as smooth and positive as possible. Serving the St. Paul, Minnesota, community, our dentists work closely with each patient to understand their needs and deliver care that is both effective and supportive.

We believe in building relationships that go beyond routine checkups. Our dentists take time to educate, listen, and guide patients on a path toward lasting oral health. Their combined expertise and collaborative approach allow us to offer high-quality care in a welcoming, inclusive setting.

Get to know the professionals behind All About Dentistry and discover how their dedication, experience, and friendly manner make a difference at every visit.

Hidayo Elmi - DDS

Meet Dr. Hidayo Elmi

Dr. Hidayo Elmi, DDS, approaches dentistry with a unique blend of skill, sincerity, and heart. For her, dentistry isn’t just about fixing teeth — it’s about empowering patients, fostering trust and helping people feel confident in their smiles. Her calm demeanor, attentive listening, and genuine understanding create an environment where patients of all ages feel comfortable and cared for.

  • With a strong background in comprehensive family and restorative dentistry, Dr. Hidayo tailors treatment plans to meet each individual’s goals — whether it’s improving oral health, alleviating discomfort, or creating the smile they’ve always wanted.
  • She takes pride in making dental visits collaborative, ensuring patients feel informed, involved, and at ease every step of the way.
  • Beyond the operatory, Dr. Hidayo is an active advocate for increasing access to dental care, mentoring young professionals, and supporting initiatives that strengthen her community.
  • She believes that improving oral health can transform lives far beyond the dental chair.
  • Outside of her practice, she enjoys raising her three children, exploring new destinations, and finding inspiration through travel, culture, and connection.

Meet Samantha Mathews, DDS

Dr. Mathews grew up in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, and earned her bachelor’s degree in biology from Wayne State University. She later moved to Pennsylvania to attend dental school at the University of Pittsburgh, where she met her husband. An avid fan of all things Minnesota, he convinced her that Minnesota was the place to be, and she made the move in the summer of 2023.

  • Dr. Mathews loves seeing the joy and confidence that a healthy, beautiful smile brings to her patients.
  • She is committed to creating a welcoming and comfortable environment to help patients feel at ease in the dental chair.
  • Outside of dentistry, Dr. Mathews enjoys reading, baking, spending time with her baby, and connecting with friends whenever possible.
  • She is the proud mother of a one-year-old daughter, and is excited to continue growing her family in Minnesota.
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Meet Dr. Elmi Elmi

Dr. Elmi Elmi, DDS, brings a dynamic and patient-focused approach to dentistry, rooted in his upbringing in the close-knit community of Burnsville, Minnesota. His journey into dentistry began with a deep desire to serve others and make a meaningful impact on their health and confidence.

  • A graduate of the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, Dr. Elmi further honed his skills through an intensive residency at Hennepin County Medical Center, where he gained advanced experience in oral surgery, implant placement, and trauma-informed care. This comprehensive training allows him to provide a full spectrum of dental solutions, from preventive care to complex restorative treatments.
  • Patients appreciate Dr. Elmi’s approachable style and his ability to make even the most complex procedures understandable.
  • He takes pride in delivering high-quality care with precision and integrity, ensuring each patient leaves not only with a healthier smile but with a positive, reassuring experience.
  • Outside the clinic, Dr. Elmi enjoys an active life with his three young children, often balancing family adventures with his passions for photography and travel — always seeking new perspectives both personally and professionally.

Meet Phong Nguyen, ADT

Phong Nguyen is an Advanced Dental Therapist who is passionate about making high-quality dentistry accessible and approachable for every patient. With advanced training in preventive, restorative, and therapeutic care, Phong blends technical skill with a gentle, reassuring approach that helps patients feel at ease in the dental chair.

  • Working closely with dentists and the care team, Phong provides a wide range of services — from routine exams and restorative procedures to patient education that encourages lasting oral health.
  • Known for a calming presence and clear communication, Phong takes time to ensure patients feel informed, supported, and confident in their care.
  • Beyond clinical practice, Phong is dedicated to reducing barriers to care and advocating for underserved communities.
  • Each patient visit is viewed as an opportunity not only to improve oral health but also to build trust and foster confidence.
  • Outside of dentistry, Phong enjoys volunteering, mentoring dental students, and staying active through traveling, shopping, and exploring the outdoors — always bringing the same curiosity and enthusiasm to life that is shared with patients every day.
Phong Nguyen - ADT
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Meet Ililta Midekssa, RDH

Ilita, RDH, is more than a dental hygienist — she’s a caring partner in her patients’ health journey. With a heartfelt passion for prevention, she finds joy in helping people feel confident in their smiles and comfortable in the dental chair. Her gentle, reassuring approach transforms routine visits into positive experiences, especially for patients who may feel anxious about dental care.

  • Ililta believes every smile tells a story, and she takes time to listen and connect with each patient, ensuring they feel valued and supported. Whether she’s providing a thorough cleaning, offering periodontal therapy or sharing simple tips for better home care, her goal is always to empower patients to feel in control of their oral health.
  • Her dedication extends beyond the clinic, where she volunteers with Give Kids a Smile, giving children the gift of healthier smiles and brighter futures.
  • When she’s not caring for patients, Ililta cherishes time with her family, enjoys traveling and discovering new foods, and finds peace in spending time outdoors.