Why am I passionate about your teeth?
It may seem kind of crazy, but honestly I love teeth. My daughter often asks me when I leave for work, why am I fixing people’s teeth? I’ve told her, in a 4-year-old simplicity, that I do this to make people feel better and have happy teeth. In a very simple way this is what I hope to do each day practicing dentistry, help people. Dentistry is a unique outlet for me, it allows me to blend science and artistry to improve people’s lives.
Teeth can make or break someone’s self-confidence; you can see it in the way someone smiles. I’ve seen teenagers with cavities so significant they would never smile. After receiving care to improve their oral health, I have seen a transformation in them. I’ve seen tears of joy when they look at their smile; a smile they own and are confident to share. This is why I am a dentist, because I love people. My hope is that patients who come to see us at Urnise Dentistry, feel this in our practice. It is important to me that our patients feel comfortable and empowered about their treatment decisions and are able to ask questions. I want you to find not just a dentist, but a dental team who cares about you and keep you smiling.
Our Team
Dr. Karen Urnise D.D.S.
Dr. Karen Urnise is from Kansas City, Missouri. Before dental school, Karen's love for the outdoors inspired her to study and receive an Environmental Science degree. She went on to graduate from the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry in 2010 receiving her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree.
Dr. Urnise is devoted to providing her patients with the highest quality of service, making use of the most up-to-date science and techniques. Dr. Urnise approaches dentistry with full body wellness in mind, addressing not only the condition of your teeth but medical issues, behaviors and other factors that impact your oral health. Karen enjoys spending time with her family and in the great outdoors. You may find her mountain biking, hiking or cooking up a gourmet meal at home.
Dr. Urnise currently is a member of the American Dental Association (ADA.org), Colorado State Dental Association, and a past President for (2016-2017) of the Western Colorado Dental Association.
Dr. Stephen Glass D.D.S.
Dr. Glass grew up in North Carolina, where he received his undergraduate degree from North Carolina State University, and his D.D.S from the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry in 2015. Since, Dr.Glass has worked as a dentist and the Dental Director for Mountain Family Health Centers from 2015-2023.
Dr. Glass discovered early on the difference quality dental care access can make for people throughout their life. He volunteered at medical mission events while in high school and learned firsthand how one dental appointment could impact someone's life for the better. Dr. Glass has a passion for minimally invasive dentistry, using prevention as the first line of treatment, allowing everyone we to more resilient to dental diseases and spend more time doing the things they love.
Dr. Glass, Kati (his wife) and Oso (dog) are appreciative and happy to call western Colorado home in every season
Fabiola Leyva-Black
Dental Assistant
Fabiola joined Urnise Dentistry in January 2017. She is a Certified Dental Assistant; she graduated from Vail Valley Dental School in 2016. Fabiola is fluent in both English and Spanish which helps her provide service to Spanish speaking patients and in her family business running two Subway restaurants. Fabiola and her husband have two adorable little boys ages four and two. When not working, Fabi enjoys spending time on the lake, hiking and traveling with her family.
Marilyn Cupples
Front Office Staff
Marilyn Cupples is new to Glenwood Springs. She has visited many times over the past 12 years. In September 2020, she started working at the front desk of Urnise Dentistry. Prior to working at our practice, Marilyn spent over 30 years in the hospitality industry. Along the way she worked for both Hilton and Hyatt Hotels in Catering Sales. Most recently, she worked for the Kansas City Chiefs, where her job responsibilities ranged from managing clubs on game day to executing special events throughout the year. She brings her customer service skills to our practice, her mantra, “I have never met a stranger, everyone is a friend”
Hilda Gutierrez
Dental Assistant
Hilda boasts over 7 years of dedicated dental experience in the valley. Graduating from Vail Valley Dental Assistant School in 2015, she honed her expertise for 6 years at a community health center, serving the under-served with diligence and compassion. Outside the clinic, Hilda's enthusiasm extends to photography, skiing, running, and embracing the great outdoors, often accompanied by her loyal dog, Balto. With a steadfast commitment to elevating community dental health and boosting self-confidence through dentistry, Hilda is currently furthering her education focusing on a future career in dental hygiene.
Kristen Parrish
Office Manager
Kristen has been a lifelong resident of the state of Colorado. After graduating from Fort Lewis College, in Durango, she pursued a career working with individuals with special needs where she realized that a smile makes all the difference. This led her to the dental industry. Kristen’s compassion and empathy towards patients and coworkers, helps mold her into a successful office manager.
When Kristen is not at the office, she is enjoying time with her family and their horses. They enjoy trail rides in the mountains, rodeos, and Dressage competitions. Kristen and her husband welcomed their first child to the family in May of 2024.
Natalia Velasco
Dental Assistant
Natalia is a certified Dental Assistant that joined Urnise Dentistry in April of 2020 after completing Intellitec College’s Dental Assisting program in November 2019. It was the many great experiences at a local childhood orthodontist that inspired her to want to become part of the next generation of bilingual dental assistants in the valley.