Growing up in Fresno, California, Dr. Nicole Nalchajian always knew she wanted to practice orthodontics in her hometown. After completing her undergraduate degree in Integrative Biology at UC Berkeley, she went straight to dental school at University of the Pacific ( UOP Arthur A Dugoni) and earned her DDS degree in 1997. Dr. Nalchajian stayed at UOP to complete an orthodontic residency/master’s and finished in 1999.
Dr. Nalchajian’s time in dental and ortho school was not only filled with hard work, but also with fun and friendships that have lasted a lifetime. She is still in touch with some of her dental classmates and they even travel together. What a blessing!
Dr. Nicole met her husband, Toufik, in Berkeley just before dental school, and they have been together ever since. Toufik was born and raised in Morocco and played professional soccer before coming to the states.
After completing her education, Dr. Nicole and her husband moved back to Fresno and joined her father in orthodontic practice, along with her cousin Greg Nalchajian. Dr. Greg and Dr. Nicole have been partners since day one. Their fathers, who were best friends and brothers, were also a dentist (Greg’s father) and an orthodontist (Nicole’s father). It’s amazing and awesome that they have carried on their dads’ legacies and strive to live up to the tradition of very high-quality care that they were both known for. Incidentally, both of their mothers were dental hygienists as well!
Dr. Nicole and Toufik have two sons. Liam, 18 years old, is in his first year at San Diego State University. Michael is a high school freshman. Dr. Nicole feels like her greatest achievement in life is her two boys and the fact that they love each other as brothers and friends, and also that she and her husband have a beautiful relationship with both of them. They also have a 12-year-old rescue, Libby, and a 2-year-old pandemic pup, Cora, who is always excited to see Dr. Nicole when she comes home.
Dr. Nicole and Greg have two offices in neighboring towns, and a team of 26. Their team rocks! Dr. Nicole loves working with this group of smart and capable women. Their office joined Corus Orthodontists last year, and they are very excited about their partnership together. It’s a great organization, all orthodontist owned, and the people/partners are top-notch.
Dr. Nicole’s story is a testament to the power of family, friendship, and legacy. She has carried on her family’s tradition of high-quality care and built a successful practice with her cousin, all while raising a loving family. We can all learn from Dr. Nicole’s dedication and passion for her work, and her commitment to those around her.