Meet the Team
Monroe Street Family Dental creates a comfortable environment where we invite patients to share concerns and ask questions every step of the way. We are curious by nature and encourage you to do the same––whether you’re a kid whose favorite question is "why?" or an adult with even the smallest amount of fear or anxiety. Showing up for routine preventative visits is an investment in your oral health, allowing us to catch things early and minimize invasive action. Our holistic approach really works.
Face time with patients is a priority. Our dentists don’t just pop in for a harried checkup after your cleaning––they stay to ask questions, and encourage you to do the same. As a whole, our staff treats each other with trust and respect. The seamless interactions between our dentists, hygienists and the rest of our team are proof of our shared commitment to you. We are a patient practice.
Our approach to dentistry
Dr. Farrow
Dr. Benjamin Farrow grew up working in his dad’s dental office, and he’s proud to continue the family tradition as a dentist.
He gives every tooth in every patient his expert consideration, and focuses on helping those teeth work together to facilitate whole mouth health. In some cases, this means having hard but honest conversations about dental hygiene and gum care. Dr. Farrow’s candid and approachable demeanor encourages people to develop healthy habits.
Building a strong community is another big part of Dr. Farrow’s approach to dentistry. He’s a former dental director of the Madison Dental Initiative clinic at the Salvation Army shelter. In partnership with other dentists and MEDIC, a medical student-run organization, he provides dental care for underserved populations and people experiencing homelessness.
He practices close to home and is proud to be part of a tightly knit, progressive and eclectic neighborhood.
Accreditations & Affiliations
American Dental Association • Wisconsin Dental Association • Greater Dane Dental Society • Academy of General Dentistry • Chicago Dental Society • International Dental Implant Association • Eco Dentistry Association • Christian Community Health Fellowship • Former President - Greater Dane Dental Society • Former Dental Director - Madison Dental Initiative • Former Faculty - Meriter General Practice Residency
Our Support Team
It's all about working together
We’re great listeners who help you make informed decisions about your oral health. We love getting to know you!
Marissa
Dental Hygienist
I graduated from Madison College in 2023 with a degree in Dental Hygiene. Before being accepted into the program, I spent three years working as a dental assistant, where I gained valuable hands-on experience and dental knowledge. I’m originally from a small town in southern Wisconsin, but I’m excited to plant roots in a larger city and embrace all the opportunities it has to offer.
Outside of work, I love spending time with our cat, Oreo. I also enjoy cooking and baking, and love curling up with a good mystery or thriller book and watching romance movies during the colder months. When the weather warms up, you can often find me golfing, hiking, or playing pickleball.
I’m thrilled to join the Monroe Street Family Dental team, where I can combine my passion for patient education with a commitment to compassionate care. Together, we strive to make every visit comfortable and empowering for our patients.
Michelle
Dental Hygienist
I received my dental hygiene degree from Madison College in 2002. I love learning and keeping busy, so I received a B.A. from UW-Whitewater with a focus on public health in 2014. My husband and I have twin sons and a daughter, plus a yellow lab and a miscellaneous cat.
Outside of work, I enjoy activities that get me outside, such as biking, golf and tent camping. I love baking from scratch when I find the time, or reading and watching movies.
Caring for people, the environment, and my community is very important to me and I’m able to do that every day at Monroe Street Family Dental
Lesley
Dental Assistant
I am a Madison native. I moved here when I was five, but originally I am from Mexico and fluent in Spanish. I enjoy spending time with my brother who is 15 years younger than me.
Some of my hobbies include: writing, listening to music and going to concerts, and watching movies and tv. I enjoy a good regency era movie or TV show. I have also loved to read since I was little. I grew up as an only child, so books were companions.
I am excited about my role on the Monroe Street Family Dental team because I want to love my job again. I want to be able to feel like I belong to something that is striving for someone’s better tomorrow.I love teaching myself new things.
Umnia
Dental Assistant and Clinical Manager
I grew up in Woodbury, Minnesota, and came to Madison to do my undergraduate degree at UW-Madison. Currently, I have plans for graduate school in a few years. I ride my bike to work whenever I can. When asked what's the most important thing to do for dental health, I always say "flossing." We've all been tired at the end of the day and thought, 'I really don't want to floss tonight,' but you just need to do it. Flossing is so important.
Fun fact about me: Growing up, I was a huge fan of the TV show Wishbone, and I still wish I had it on DVD. He went through so much literature!
Amanda
Business Administrator
I joined the Monroe Street Family Dental team shortly after our last child was born. I enjoy being a part of the office and helping with organization, administration, projects and marketing. I love being a part of this team and seeing patients’ smiles that our dentists and staff make possible.
Outside of work, I stay busy chasing around our three children, running, skiing, and gardening.
Jamie
Bookkeeper
I'm a 2004 graduate of UW-Madison and I love exploring the city with my three dogs. I’ve been with Monroe Street Family Dental from day one, and I truly believe our dentists are the best out there. I’m so happy to be part of such an amazing and caring team.
My hobbies and interests include: Spreadsheets, traveling, anything to do with parks, hiking, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, biking, walking my dogs, gardening, crafting, cross-stitching, knitting and upcycling items.
Fun facts about me: I was named after the Bionic Woman; I had 6 wisdom teeth (they’ve all been removed); and I know every word to Every Rose Has Its Thorn.
Leah
Dental Intern
Leah joins us as a part-time dental intern. She is currently a senior at UW-Madison and planning to apply to dental school after she graduates. She is going to make a great dentist one day!