We Get It. The Dentist Can Be Scary.
That's exactly why we do things differently.
Whether it's been six months or six years since your last visit—you're welcome here. No judgment. No lectures. Just two doctors who genuinely love what they do, and a team that treats you like family.
Meet the Founder
Dr. Sonya Hallmark, D.M.D.
Dr. Hallmark didn't take the traditional path to dentistry—and that's what makes her different.
She started in 1999 as a dental assistant, learning firsthand what it feels like to sit in that chair. She became a Registered Dental Hygienist, spending years right beside patients, understanding their fears, their questions, their hopes for their smile.
In 2006, she went back to school. In 2014, she graduated from the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Dentistry and opened Hallmark Dentistry with one mission: create the kind of dental experience she always wished existed.
“25 years in dentistry. Every seat in the room. That's why she gets it.”
Credentials
- D.M.D. — UAB School of Dentistry (2014)
- B.S. with Honors, Biomedical Sciences — University of South Alabama
- Registered Dental Hygienist
- Academy of General Dentistry
- American Dental Association
- Alabama Dental Association
- Cullman Chamber of Commerce
When she's not at the office, Dr. Hallmark is cheering on her two kids, playing tennis, or spending time with her husband Damon—her hometown sweetheart of 18 years.
Advanced Training Expert
Dr. Kara Ward, D.M.D.
Dr. Ward is the person you want in your corner when things get complicated.
After earning her Doctor of Dental Medicine from the University of Alabama School of Dentistry in 2014, she didn't stop there. She completed a year-long Advanced Education residency at the Birmingham VA Hospital—one of the most rigorous training programs in the country.
That means implants. Oral surgery. Complex cases. The stuff that makes other dentists nervous? That's where Dr. Ward thrives.
“Despite all that training, what patients remember most is how gentle she is.”
Credentials
- D.M.D. — University of Alabama School of Dentistry (2014)
- Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) Residency — Birmingham VA Hospital
- Implant placement, oral surgery, prosthodontics, complex care
- B.S. Biology — University of North Carolina
- Academy of General Dentistry
- American Dental Association
Fun fact: Dr. Ward met her husband David while they were both working in Yellowstone National Park. These days, their adventures are a little closer to home—hiking and traveling with their two kids.
What We Believe
No Judgment. Ever.
Life gets busy. We're not here to shame you—we're here to help you move forward.
Your Mouth, Your Body
We see the connection between oral health and overall health. That's why we treat the whole you.
Comfort Isn't Optional
From our chairs to our approach, everything is designed to help you actually relax.
Ready to find your dental home?
Whether you need a cleaning, have a broken tooth, or just want to finally feel good about your smile—we're here.