Our Doctors
The dentists behind O2 Dental Group come from a range of backgrounds and training, but they share one thing: a belief that good dental care should be honest, comfortable, and built on real relationships. Meet the team caring for patients across our six North Carolina offices.
- Co-Founder & Owner
- All Locations
- Co-founder of O2 Dental Group. Born in Nigeria and raised in North Carolina, Dr. Olu earned his DDS at UNC-Chapel Hill and completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at the VA Hospital in Fayetteville. With more than 15 years placing and restoring dental implants, he built O2 alongside Dr. Lydia around careful planning, clear communication, and natural, long-lasting results — and practices across all six O2 Dental Group offices.
- Co-Founder
- Co-founder of O2 Dental Group. Born in Ghana and raised in Texas, Dr. Lydia is a lifelong athlete who came to North Carolina and never left. She earned her undergraduate and dental hygiene degrees at UNC-Chapel Hill, did post-doctorate studies at UNC-Greensboro, and completed dental school at East Carolina University — a prevention-through-treatment foundation that shapes how she cares for her patients.
- Durham
- A Durham local through and through, Dr. Cross earned both her undergraduate degree and her DDS at UNC-Chapel Hill. Patients who've felt rushed or dismissed elsewhere often say she's the dentist who changed how they feel about dental care — relationship-first, from the very first visit.
- Fayetteville
- A U.S. Army veteran who served with the 82nd Airborne in Fayetteville, Dr. Morales earned his biology degree at Fayetteville State and his DMD at East Carolina University. Deeply rooted in the community and a native Spanish speaker, he treats every patient with respect, fairness, and kindness.
- Fayetteville
- Born in Santo Domingo and trained at Boston University, Dr. Novas completed her residency at Interfaith Medical Center in Brooklyn, caring for an exceptionally diverse patient community. She has a particular love for esthetic dentistry and meets every patient exactly where they are.
- Raleigh
- Dr. Afridi earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of New England, building on an earlier dental degree from India. With more than three years in comprehensive general dentistry and Invisalign certification, she's known for thorough, education-first care that keeps patients comfortable and informed.
- Siler City
- Raised in nearby Asheboro and a two-time Tar Heel (undergrad and DDS at UNC-Chapel Hill), Dr. Manzano is proud to call North Carolina home. She's drawn to the way dentistry blends art, science, and real relationships — and every patient in her chair can expect to feel supported and cared for as a whole person.
- Southern Pines
- Dr. Neil earned his dental degree and completed his Advanced Education in General Dentistry at East Carolina University, with experience across restorative, cosmetic, and preventive care. He focuses on building trust and helping patients make informed decisions, with treatment plans tailored to each person's goals.
- Wilmington
- Dr. Welch earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine at the University of Mississippi Medical Center School of Dentistry, with training spanning restorative dentistry, endodontics, prosthodontics, and periodontics. New to the coast, he's focused on trust, clear communication, and comfortable, patient-centered care for the Wilmington community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the dentists at O2 Dental Group accepting new patients?
Yes. Our doctors welcome new patients and provide comprehensive dental care for children, teens, adults, and seniors across our North Carolina locations.
Can I request a specific dentist when scheduling an appointment?
Absolutely. If you have a preferred doctor, let our team know when booking your visit, and we’ll do our best to schedule you with that provider.
What dental services do your doctors provide?
Our dentists offer a full range of services, including preventive care, cosmetic dentistry, crowns, bridges, dentures, dental implants, Invisalign®, root canals, and emergency dental treatment.
Where did the O2 Dental Group doctors receive their education?
Our dentists graduated from respected institutions, including the UNC-Chapel Hill School of Dentistry, East Carolina University School of Dental Medicine, Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, the University of New England College of Dental Medicine, and the University of Mississippi Medical Center School of Dentistry.
Do your dentists treat both children and adults?
Yes. O2 Dental Group provides family dentistry, and our doctors care for patients of all ages, from young children to seniors.
How do I choose the right dentist for my needs?
Each of our doctors is committed to patient-centered care and offers expertise in a variety of dental services. If you’re unsure which provider is the best fit, our team can help match you with a dentist based on your needs and preferences.
Do your doctors provide emergency dental care?
Yes. Our team offers emergency dental services for issues such as toothaches, broken teeth, lost fillings, and other urgent dental concerns. Contact your nearest O2 Dental Group location for prompt care.
What makes O2 Dental Group's doctors different?
Our dentists combine advanced training with a compassionate approach to care. They focus on building lasting relationships with patients and creating comfortable experiences while delivering high-quality dentistry tailored to each individual’s needs.
