Meet Us

North Salem Dental Care

Fred Faustini

DDS

I am very fortunate to have a profession that I am truly passionate about, in a community that supports both my career and family life. 

I am most passionate about relieving patients’ anxiety and achieving outcomes that transform their smiles. I am also very gratified when I can get patients out of discomfort or pain, as there is no better feeling than helping someone improve his or her quality of life! 

I believe in treating the whole person, not just their teeth, and strive to make every patient feel heard, respected, and cared for during each visit. Whether it is transforming smiles through modern technology and aesthetics, or rehabilitating a patient’s mouth to improve their oral health, I am committed to offering all facets of dentistry that will provide the best outcome for the patient. 

 Education and Continuing Education 

I earned my Bachelor of Science at Fordham University before obtaining my Doctor of Dental Medicine at the University of Buffalo School of Dental Medicine. I would later complete a two-year residency through New York University’s implant dentistry fellowship program. 

I strongly believe in the importance of continuing education to stay at the forefront of dental advancements. To ensure I am always providing the best care, I have completed over a thousand hours of continuing education through renowned institutions such as the Pankey Institute, the Spear Academy, and the Dawson Academy. This ongoing education is a cornerstone of my commitment to providing the highest quality care to my patients. 

Professional Memberships 

• American Dental Association 
• American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry 
• American Academy of Implant Dentistry 
• New York State Dental Association 

Fellowships 

• Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry 

Outside the Office 

When I’m not in the office, I enjoy spending quality time with my family, taking weekend trips, golfing with my son and friends, and playing pickleball.   

Amy Guccione

DDS

I earned my Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University at Buffalo in 2003. Following dental school, I completed a general practice residency, where I later served as an attending during my second year. It was during this time that my passion for prosthodontics became clear, leading me to pursue three additional years of specialized training at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (now Rutgers).

With over 20 years of experience in the field, I have had the privilege of owning my own practice and working in private offices across Queens, Manhattan, Yonkers, and now North Salem. Since joining North Salem Dental Care on June 29, 2023, I have been able to focus entirely on patient care—especially in managing complex cases that require coordination with other dental specialists in the area.

As a prosthodontist, I specialize in advanced restorative procedures, with a particular passion for the All-on-X full-arch dental implant solution. I am dedicated to tackling the most challenging cases, helping patients regain confidence in their smiles by restoring optimal function, aesthetics, and long-term oral health.

I look forward to continuing to serve the community and providing high-quality, comprehensive dental care.

Shana Leone

Registered Dental Hygienist

With 19 years of exceptional service, Shana has become a valued member of our team, known for her ability to connect with patients on a personal level and make them feel comfortable and welcomed. She takes great pride in the important role she plays in maintaining her patients’ oral health and enjoys educating them on how to keep a healthy, radiant smile they can be proud of.

Aside from cleaning teeth, she is skilled in assessing gum health and providing treatments for gum disease, including scaling and root planing. Shana is dedicated and focused on staying up-to-date with the latest techniques, technology, and best practices in dental hygiene. Shana is married with three wonderful children whom she loves spending time with.

Aside from dentistry, Shana also has a passion for sports and fitness, as she is involved with managing team practices at the Somers Sports Center with a special focus on wrestling.

Kristin O'Connor

Registered Dental Hygienist

With 20 years of experience at North Salem Dental Care, Kristin has dedicated herself to promoting optimal oral health. She takes great pride in her role, believing that patient education is the cornerstone of lasting dental wellness. She deeply values building connections with her patients to understand their individual motivations and needs for achieving a healthy mouth, ensuring a personalized approach to their dental care.

Kristin is fully licensed and certified in the state of New York. Always staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in dental hygiene, she attends ongoing courses and training to enhance skills and techniques. Kristin’s passion for dental hygiene and her commitment to lifelong learning make her an invaluable resource for our patients and a key member of the North Salem Dental Care family.
Originally from Virginia, Kristin is married with two children. Outside of work, she enjoys watching her kids participate in their sports, hiking, working out, and traveling.

Samantha

Registered Dental Hygienist

After relocating to the area in early 2024, Samantha joined North Salem Dental Care last spring, bringing 9 years of experience in the dental field. Her work includes direct patient care, such as oral prophylaxis (dental cleanings), diagnostic imaging, periodontal assessments, and therapies. Samantha’s journey in dentistry began as a teenager, and over the years, she has built a well-rounded skill set, with four years of experience as a dental assistant while attending SUNY Orange for both Business Management and Dental Hygiene.

With a deep passion for dentistry as a whole, Samantha has had the privilege of working with and learning from many skilled dental professionals, which has only fueled her enthusiasm for continuing education. She actively pursues courses on the latest advancements in dentistry and healthcare, as she is committed to growing and improving as a Registered Dental Hygienist. She is dedicated to providing the best care for her patients and values the relationships she builds with each one.

Outside the office, Samantha enjoys DIY projects on her new home, hiking, and spending quality time with her boyfriend, family, and friends, and especially with her new pup, Shamus!

Darlene Love-Gafni

Finance/Insurance Manager

With over 35 years of experience in the dental field, Darlene currently serves as the Insurance/Finance Manager at NSDC, a role she has held for the past 4 years. Her main focus is assisting patients in navigating their insurance and financial options so they may achieve their dental goals while providing exceptional customer care. Darlene’s thoroughness and commitment to our patients make her an integral part of the North Salem Dental Care team.

Outside of work, Darlene derives great joy from spending quality time with family, friends, and especially her grandchildren. She has a passion for traveling and meeting new people, which allows her to continuously learn and grow both personally and professionally.

Lynn Daly

Registered Dental Assistant

Lynn has been at NSDC for many years working side by side with both Dr. Faustini and Dr. Guccione. Her experience and dedication to the field enables her to provide excellent patient care while assisting in a wide range of routine and complex dental procedures. She is proficient in using advanced dental technology and maintaining sterilization protocols. With a passion for patient care, Lynn creates a welcoming environment, helping patients feel at ease throughout their visits. She is also committed and involved in learning new dental technology.

Lynn is also a licensed massage therapist tying into her commitment of patient care. Lynn enjoys cooking and baking (especially birthday cakes for the office), spending time with her family, particularly her four grandchildren!

Jacqueline

Registered Dental Assistant

Betsy

Registered Dental Assistant

Betsy has truly come full circle, as she started working at NSDC in 1991 and began assisting Dr. Faustini in 1992 as his first dental assistant at this office! After taking a hiatus to raise her family, she returned to the practice in 2023, bringing back her warmth, calming personality, and organizational skills! She is involved in assisting, sterilization of instruments, and the preparation and organization of treatment rooms to ensure a smooth and efficient patient experience. Betsy has a knack for putting patients at ease and providing a stress-free experience.

Outside of the office, Betsy enjoys hobbies such as wildlife and nature photography, traveling, exercising, playing pickleball, shopping, and spending time with her family.