who we are
about us
We are a team of women that want to change the way you think about dental care.
My name is Elana Celliers, and I am a General Dentist with a passion for cosmetic dentistry and treating people of all ages — yes, this includes the little ones!
The name of the practice is a tribute to my mother. She passed away when I was 17, but she gave me the strength and resilience to become a dentist. We shared a love of butterflies — creatures which are both amazingly engineered as well as beautiful.
In dentistry, to create a beautiful smile you need to combine form with function, and art with science. I think butterflies are an amazing example of just that.
Dr. Elana Celliers
Owner / Dentist
With over a decade of experience in dentistry and an extra year of chairside assisting before dental school, Dr. Elana Celliers brings both expertise and empathy to every patient interaction. A proud Syracuse alumna, Dr. Celliers credits her time at the university for instilling a deep sense of community and camaraderie, values she has carried into Monarch Dentistry.
Dr. Celliers founded Monarch with a clear mission: to create a space that felt more like home than a typical dental office. Her goal was to foster a culture where patients and staff alike feel seen, supported, and celebrated. “We don’t see patients as a number. We see them as part of the Monarch family,” she says.
A self-professed perfectionist and people-pleaser, she’s fueled by a desire to deliver exceptional care in a setting that’s warm and approachable. She is fueled by chocolate and peanut butter ice cream (especially from Elena’s on Orange in New Haven, a potential dream collaboration)!
Outside the office, Dr. Celliers is inseparable from her talented husband, Tom, and beloved mini Bernedoodle, Gus (who brings daily joy and occasional sock heists into her life). Her close-knit relationship with her dad and sister, both Syracuse grads and die-hard Monarch supporters, underscores her values of loyalty, love, and support.
Fun fact: Dr. Celliers and her sister are unbeatable at Friends trivia and she’s always on the lookout for local competitions.
Ryna Cerrito
Certified Dental Assistant
With 32 years in the dental field, Ryna Cerrito is a seasoned professional whose warmth and steadiness have comforted generations of patients. A graduate of Eli Whitney RVTS in Hamden, Ryna began her career under the mentorship of a kind-hearted Cheshire dentist who helped her build both confidence and passion for the profession.
Her connection to Dr. Celliers is truly full-circle. Ryna first met Elana when she was just a child visiting the dental office with her mother. Years later, when Elana invited her to be part of Monarch’s founding team, it felt like destiny.
Ryna’s motivation is simple yet powerful: to make dental visits more comfortable, less stressful, and even enjoyable. Her thoughtful presence and quiet strength leave a lasting impression on patients and teammates alike.
When not at work, Ryna loves spending time in her garden or crafting. But her favorite moments are those spent with her two daughters, smiling, laughing, and continuing to make beautiful memories together.
Barbara Graziosa
Registered Dental Hygienist
Barbara Graziosa brings nearly three decades of dental experience and 24 years of hygiene expertise to Monarch Dentistry. But dentistry wasn’t her first path. Originally a travel agent, Barbara pivoted careers when a friend introduced her to the dental world. What started as a temporary job evolved into a lifelong passion.
She completed her Dental Hygiene degree at Tunxis Community College, where she was elected Senior Class President and formed a tight-knit network of friends and mentors who remain close to this day.
At Monarch, Barbara found her dream team, a compassionate, committed group of women who share her dedication to patient care. She thrives on helping people feel confident in their smiles and building genuine, lasting relationships along the way.
Barbara is a former cheer coach, and one of her proudest memories is watching her daughter perform at a national competition. This time, she was cheering from the crowd, with pride as both a coach and a mom.
Oh, and one more thing. She’s terrified of heights. Don’t even ask about skydiving. But she’ll be first in line to cheer you on from the ground!
Patti Prodan
Office Manager
With 32 years in the dental field and a background in accounting, Patti Prodan brings a unique blend of heart and logic to the Monarch Dentistry front office. Originally inspired by her aunt, a dental assistant, Patti pivoted from her career in numbers to one in smiles and never looked back.
After assisting for many years, Patti transitioned into management, where she’s found the perfect role. She blends her analytical skills with her genuine love for patient care and team leadership.
Patti joined Monarch after working for over two decades under a beloved dentist. She eventually met Dr. Celliers through that practice and immediately saw a familiar spark. The same compassion, attentiveness, and dedication to doing right by both patients and staff stood out to Patti.
Patti thrives in a culture of camaraderie, respect, and shared purpose, led by a woman who listens, values her input, and puts people first. She found all of this in the Monarch team and contributes to its culture every day.
Meribeth Durnin
Receptionist
Meribeth Durnin is often the first voice and smile you'll encounter at Monarch Dentistry, and that warmth is no coincidence. With experience in both customer service and medical administration, she brings a steady mix of compassion, professionalism, and positivity to the front desk.
Originally drawn to Monarch by the women-led team and welcoming atmosphere, Meribeth found an immediate sense of belonging. What she loves most is how close-knit and genuinely supportive the team is, both personally and professionally.
Her goal each day is simple. To help patients feel at ease from the moment they walk through the door. Whether she’s scheduling appointments or calming nerves before a visit, Meribeth makes everyone feel seen and cared for.
Outside of work, she’s happiest at home with her two rescue dogs, Layla and Nova, or spending quality time with her close-knit family. A proud homebody, she’s a firm believer in the power of slow mornings, home-cooked meals, and the comfort of a good book.
