Professional Goal
“Each day I arrive at the office, I want to really connect with my patients and team, do great dentistry, and have fun. To earn the respect of my team, patients, and colleagues is the greatest compliment I can receive!”
Why I became a Dentist
“I grew up very embarrassed about they way my teeth looked. They were crooked, chipped, and yellow. Having minor cosmetic dentistry and orthodontics as a young adult enabled me to smile with confidence, which changed my life. I want to give people the same satisfaction and joy of being able to smile proudly without hesitation, so I chose dentistry as my profession.”
Biography
Dr. Mullen was raised in the Southern California area. After graduating from Crescenta Valley High School, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. For four years he worked as a “radar specialist” aboard the U.S.S. Gridley guided missile cruiser. He is a veteran of the Gulf War and served on two 6-month deployments during his 4 years of enlistment. After separating from the Navy at 22, Dr. Mullen started his education to become a dentist.
Dr. Mullen graduated from San Diego State University with a B.S. in Biology. He went on to the University of California at San Francisco for four years to obtain his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. He met his wife, Emily, at UCSF who went on to become a dental hygienist. After graduating from UCSF dental school in 2000, Dr. Mullen re-entered the Navy, this time as a Dental Officer. Dr. Mullen completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry training during his first year. He was then stationed on the U.S.S. John C, Stennis air craft carrier and completed an 8-month deployment to the Gulf region supporting Operation Enduring Freedom right after September 11th. After serving 2 years on the Stennis, Dr. Mullen served 2 more years at the Marine Corps Recruiting Depot where he provided dentistry to new Marine recruits. After serving a total of 5 years as a Navy Dental Officer, Dr. Mullen and Emily decided to move to Redding to continue raising their 2 boys.
In 2005, Dr. Mullen was honored to take over Dr. Donald Dunbar’s practice of 30 years. He and Emily live in Redding with their boys, Ethan and Brennan, and continue to build their ideal dental practice together. Dr. Mullen continues to participate in professional dental study groups, continuing education, and advanced training to uphold the standard of care he provides to his patients. He enjoys golfing, white water kayaking, and reading in his free time. He is an avid So-Cal sports fan, and can be caught laughing with his patients.