Get To Know Us
Our team is made up of the highest-quality people at work in the orthodontic profession. Scroll down to learn a little more about them and what makes them so unique.
Dr. Todd Hughes
Dr. Hughes has deep roots here in The Woodlands. He and his wife, Jennie, grew up in The Woodlands and both are graduates of McCullough High School. It has been his long-term goal to return to The Woodlands to raise a family and build an orthodontic practice serving the community.
Upon graduating, Dr. Hughes attended The University of Texas at Austin where he achieved his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Zoology. In 1995, Dr. Hughes attended Dental School at The University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. Upon completing his dental training, he was accepted at The University of Texas Houston Health Science Center where he completed his Residency and achieved his Certificate of Orthodontics in June of 2001.
Dr. Hughes and his wife are proud to have made The Woodlands their home once again. Today, they have three beautiful boys, Hayden, Hudson, and Henry. Their family and the practice are longtime dreams come true and are thrilled that their boys will have the pleasure of growing up in a “real hometown.” The Hughes family loves being very involved in this great community and strives to make it a beautiful place to live and work. In his free time, Dr. Hughes enjoys traveling, hunting, UT football, and watching his boys’ sporting activities.
Professional affiliations include the Omicron Kappa Upsilon — National Honor Society, The American Association of Orthodontists, The American Dental Association, The Texas Dental Association, and The Brazos Valley Dental Association.
Dr. Ben Cozad
Dr. Cozad and his wife Sara grew up in the Houston area. After high school, he attended Baylor University where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology. He went on to attend dental school at Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas, Texas where he was recognized at graduation as the most outstanding student in his dental class. He was excited to return home to Houston for his residency at The University of Texas and earned his Certificate of Orthodontics and Masters of Science in Dentistry. Dr. Cozad is a published orthodontic researcher and part-time faculty member at The University of Texas School of Dentistry. He is also board-certified by The American Board of Orthodontics.
Dr. Cozad and his wife have two sons named Winston and Truman. They have made Spring their home and are happy to serve their local community alongside Dr. Hughes and the excellent office staff. When he isn’t at the office, Dr. Cozad enjoys traveling and spending time with his family. He is an experienced woodworker and an avid Lego builder.
Professional affiliations include the Omicron Kappa Upsilon — National Honor Society and The American Association of Orthodontists.
Dr. Jackson Valencia
Dr. Jackson Valencia is proud to call The Woodlands home. He and his wife, Alexandra, grew up in the area and graduated from College Park High School. After several years away for training, they have returned to raise their children—James and Sophie—in the same community that has shaped them. Jackson has dreamed of serving The Woodlands as an orthodontist since he was a student at College Park. He’s grateful for the chance to give back to his hometown by helping patients feel confident in their smiles and cared for as people. Outside the office, he enjoys being involved at his church, walking the trails, reading, gardening, and spending time with his family.
Dr. Valencia earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from Texas A&M University. He completed dental school at UTHealth School of Dentistry at Houston, where he was honored with academic excellence, leadership, and research awards. He continued at UTHealth to complete his orthodontic residency and Master of Science in Dentistry, serving as Chief Resident and Class President. He is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, the Texas Association of Orthodontists, the American Dental Association, the Texas Dental Association, and the Omicron Kappa Upsilon—National Honor Society.
Sheila
I have always loved the dental field. I have been a registered Dental Assistant since 1998 and joined Hughes & Cozad Orthodontics in 2018. I love working and visiting with patients along with making beautiful smiles. My husband and I have two beautiful kids who drive Junior Dragsters! We spend every weekend at a race track or ballpark. You may also find us hunting and enjoying the outdoors.
Cassidy
Hi, I’m Cassidy! I was born and raised right here in The Woodlands. I have been a registered dental assistant since 2017 and been part of the Hughes & Cozad team since 2018. I love getting to know our patients and watching their smiles light up as their confidence grows.
When I’m not at the office, I help my in-laws run their BBQ restaurant. Otherwise, you can find me hanging out with my husband and our son, Hank. We’re always up for cheering on the Astros and discovering fun new restaurants to try.
Kendra
I was raised in Tucson, Arizona and I moved to Texas in 2008. I have been working in ortho since 2016. My husband and I have one son, Gannon, and a little kitty name Fang. When we’re not working, you’ll usually find us outside—spending time together, playing baseball, or just enjoying the fresh air.
Shawna
I’ve been part of the Hughes & Cozad team since 2022. I began at the front desk and worked my way up to Financial and Insurance Coordinator, where I enjoy helping patients navigate their coverage and care.
I was born and raised in Texas and have been married since 2012. My husband and I have three wonderful kids—two boys and one girl, along with a lively household that includes four dogs and a cat. When I’m not at work, I love spending time outdoors with my family, whether that’s riding motorcycles or just enjoying the simple moments together.
Morgan
After diving headfirst into the dental field back in 2017, it was early 2019 when I found my home with Hughes & Cozad Orthodontics. Having worked on patients and with patients, I’m really enjoying being more behind the scenes seeing the magic happen from a different view. All while raising my sweet little boys. I love being a hands on mom and children’s book author in my spare time.
Pam
I have worked as an orthodontic assistant since 1998 and have been a proud member of the Hughes & Cozad Orthodontics team since 2006. I love creating a fun, welcoming environment for our patients and truly enjoy seeing their confidence grow as their smile transforms throughout treatment.
Outside of the office, I enjoy cruising or taking road trips with my husband. We’re big fans of Mexican food and love spending time with our two dogs, Whiskey and Waylan. I also have a love for all things paranormal—ghost stories, haunted places, and the unexplained always pique my interest!
Hannah
I’ve been working in orthodontics since 2010 and truly love what I do. In 2019, I made the move from Beaumont to The Woodlands to be closer to my family, and it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
As Clinical Lead, one of the most rewarding parts of my job is watching our patients’ smiles—and confidence—transform throughout their orthodontic journey. It’s an incredible feeling to know I play a part in helping people feel great about themselves.
When I’m not in the office, you can usually find me spending time with family, planning my next vacation, or hanging out with my Mini Aussie—she keeps me on my toes!
Kaitlin
I was born and raised here in Houston and now live in Magnolia with my husband, Mason. I’ve been fortunate to work in the dental field since I was 16, and I love orthodontics because it allows me to connect with patients and watch their smiles transform. I have been with Hughes and Cozad since 2021!
Outside the office I enjoy watching football, spending time outdoors, and taking our two German Shepherds, Xena and Khaleesi, out for Jeep rides.
Leisha
I’m a proud Fort Worth native and have been in the dental field since 1997. Orthodontics is my true passion, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of a team that shares the same dedication to patient care. Being here feels like home—thanks to both our amazing team and the wonderful patients we serve.
Lisa
I was born and raised in Oklahoma and moved to Texas in 2004. I have been in the orthodontic lab industry for over 25 years and have found my home at Hughes and Cozad Orthodontics. In my spare time I enjoy hanging out with family and friends.
Karen
I’ve had the pleasure of working at Hughes & Cozad Orthodontics since 2006, and I truly feel lucky to be part of such an incredible team. Originally from Houston, my husband and I moved to The Woodlands in 1993 and have loved being part of this wonderful community. Outside of the office, I enjoy staying active through running and triathlons, and I also love to bake, play golf, and spend quality time with my family, especially my two beautiful grandchildren!
Sarah
Been in customer service since 2013 and have been here since 2022 working at the front desk. When I’m not working, I’m kept busy by my two kids and two cats, who have all taught me a lot about patience and effective listening. I love to read books and binge watch shows on Netflix.
Kim
I was born and raised in the Houston area and now reside in Montgomery. I have always enjoyed working in the dental field, particularly orthodontics. In my spare time I enjoy watching the Astros, going to the beach, and spending time with my grandkids!
Quency
I was born and raised in Honduras and made the move to Houston in 2021. I have three handsome boys. Miguel, Hansel and Brayden. They are the sunshine of my life. In my free time, I enjoy going to the beach and just being outdoors. I joined the Hughes & Cozad family in February 2025 and feel grateful to be a part of the amazing team.
Taryn
I was born and raised in Louisiana and moved to Houston in 2008. I have been with Hughes & Cozad Orthodontics since 2024. I am a dog mom to a miniature schnauzer named Lulu.
Myra
Hey there! I have been in the dental field for about 7 years, worked with H & C team since 2023. I was born and raised in Houston all my life. My husband and I have 2 wonderful fur babies – our cats Hashbrown and Arya. You can catch us at shows with our rave fam, EDM! On my spare time I like to do yoga and video game on Fortnite and Mario Kart.
Ashlee
Although I was born in Oklahoma, I was raised right here in Texas, growing up in the Tomball and Magnolia areas. I’ve been working in the orthodontic field since 2016 and joined the Hughes & Cozad Orthodontic family in February 2024. As a Treatment Coordinator, I truly enjoy connecting with new patients and being a part of their smile transformations from start to finish.
Outside the office, I love spending time with my husband, our two beautiful daughters—Delilah and Isabelle—and our two silly dogs, Bonnie and Beaux.
Nicole
Originally from California, I moved to Texas in 2002 and have been dedicated to the dental field since 1997. I joined Hughes & Cozad orthodontics in 2024 and bring decades of experience and passion for helping patients feel confident in their smiles. Outside the office, I enjoy spending time with my husband Zac, our daughter Kira, and our four cats.
Shalece
Born and raised in Southern California, I made the move to Houston, TX in 2024 when I joined Hughes & Cozad. I’ve been in the dental field since 2014 and truly enjoy being part of the journey that brings confidence and smiles to our patients. Outside of the office, you’ll often find me exploring local art museums or spending quality time with family.
Geneva
I’ve been working in orthodontics since 1987. I’ve enjoyed orthodontics and seeing the result of so many beautiful smiles. I worked for Dr. Hughes in his earlier years and am grateful and excited to be back. My husband, Darvin and I have one son and a beautiful granddaughter. In my free time, I enjoy going to the beach with family and just enjoying the outdoors. The other parts of our family are a black lab, a rescued pit bull, an adopted Boston terrier, and three cats.
April
I have been in Orthodontics since 2005 and have been with Hughes and Cozad Orthodontics since 2022. I have been married to my husband, Toby, since April 2024. I’m a cat mom to Zoe, Zara, and Zeus. In my spare time I enjoy music, movies, cruises, chilling by the pool, and rooting for my Houston sports teams. Personally, I think everyone looks better with braces! Yay Braces!
Yessica
I’ve been working as an orthodontic assistant since 1996, and I’ve had the pleasure of being part of the Hughes & Cozad Orthodontics team since 2009. Over the years, I’ve truly enjoyed getting to know our patients and helping them feel comfortable and confident during their orthodontic journey.
Outside of work I love spending time with my family and friends. I’m always dreaming up my next travel adventure whether I’m on the go or just making plans! I also enjoy digital scrapbooking, which lets me hang onto all those special memories in a creative way.
Shayna
I have worked in the orthodontic field since 2014 and joined Hughes & Cozad Orthodontics in 2019. I love getting to know our patients and their families and watching their smiles transform throughout treatment.
Outside the office, I enjoy watching sports and spending time with my husband, Bryan, our two children, Sadie and Bennett, and our dogs, Jackson and Watson. A fun fact about me is that I’m a big Star Wars fan!
Elena
I was born in Mexico and move to Houston in 1995. I am married and blessed with two kids, one boy and one girl. We love to spend time together. We also have 3 crazy pit bulls.
Brianna
Hey I’m Brianna. I was born and raised in Houston, TX. My first passion is softball. I dedicated 16 years to the game and continue to share my love through coaching. On the weekends, you can find me playing with my dog, Nugget, hanging out with my friends, and spending time with my family.
Elizabeth
I have been a part of the orthodontic field since 2018 and have a passion for helping patients achieve their best smiles. I love being part of each patient’s journey and seeing the transformation from start to finish.
Outside of the office, I enjoy traveling and spending time with family and friends. My husband and I love spending days at the lake, shooting sporting clays, and enjoying the outdoors whenever we can.
Mak
Hey I’m Makayla , also know as Mak ! I have worked in dentistry since 2022, but I started my Orthodontic journey in March of 2024. In my free time you can find me jamming to music in my car, spending time with my boyfriend Zach and our son Swayde, or at a rodeo cheering on family!
Mario
I’ve been a dental assistant since 2012. It’s an honor to say I get to make people smile for a living. I have an awesome team at Hughes and Cozad that is always fun and a joy to be around. I love interacting with patients and sharing their journey with braces and life. I was born and raised in San Antonio, TX. My family is everything to me, and I love them so much. My passion is spending time with my amazing girlfriend Jil, watching football and other sports, and playing or listening to music.
Mary
Since starting my career in orthodontics in 2019, I’ve been dedicated to creating beautiful, healthy smiles. Originally from Needville, I moved to The Woodlands in 2022 and enjoy a life of baking, playing guitar, and spending time with my husband and pets.
JoAnn
I was born and raised in Ohio, lived in St. Louis for 16 years and moved to Texas in 2018 to be closer to our kids. I have been in the dental field since high school. I have been an orthodontic assistant and now lab tech. I love every aspect of orthodontics.
Alvaro
I’m from Brownsville, Tx and have been in the dental field for over 25 years. I enjoy working behind the scenes to help create dental appliances that transform a patient’s smile. I enjoy drawing, sculpting and painting during my free time.
Alicia
I was raised in The Woodlands (go Highlanders) and recently graduated from UT Austin. I am currently applying to dental school and am excited to learn more about the dental field!
Liz
Though I am new to working in orthodontics, I have many years of working in customer service. This has greatly aided me in helping patients with not only their appointments but answering any questions they may have. When I am not working, I enjoy watching football and scrapbooking, but most of all I enjoy spending time with my grandson.
Jasmine
I was born and raised in North Dakota and moved to Houston in 2015! I found my passion for dentistry in 2021 and started in orthodontics in 2022. I love what I do and seeing the impact it has on patients when they see how transforming their smiles can bring them so much happiness! Outside of being dental assistant I like to paint and hang out with my chocolate lab Otto and my 2 younger brothers.
Evelyn
Hello there! I’ve been in the dental field since 2024 and been with Hughes and Cozad Orthodontics since 2025. I was Born and raised in Corpus Christi, TX. In my free time I love to play golf, go to the beach, or do puzzles!
Becca
I recently moved to Texas and joined Hughes and Cozad Orthodontics in 2025 but have been in the dental field since 2017. When I am not working I enjoy spending time at home with my two cats or reading a good book with some coffee.
Ari
I was born in Texas and raised in Mexico, where I followed in my dad’s footsteps and completed five years of dental school. I am now preparing to do two more years of school in the U.S to become a dentist. I enjoy helping our doctors provide patients with the
confidence and functionality that orthodontics brings. Outside the office, I love running, singing, dancing, going to concerts, and exploring everything related to science and fashion.