Dr. Rafael Rivera, Jr (known to all as Dr. Raf). graduated from Westover Senior High in Fayetteville, NC. He then went on to study at UNC-Chapel Hill, earning a BA in Chemistry before completing his Doctorate of Dental Surgery. Following graduation from the UNC School of Dentistry, Dr. Rivera served in the United States Navy where he completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry while also gaining a healthy appreciation for Public Health Dentistry. Interestingly, it was an overseas tour in Japan which solidified Dr. Raf’s passion for treating children. Since 2002 he has dedicated his professional career to children and young adults. In 2008 Dr. Rivera purchased Smile Starters and immediately set to work fulfilling his aspirations to improve access to quality dental care for the underserved. He has served on several focus groups and committees in the furtherance of access to quality dental care for North Carolina’s children. Dr. Rivera believes in accountability, ethical stewardship and doing things the right way, the first time.