Staff

Michael J. Collura

D.M.D.

Michael J. Collura, D.M.D.

Dr. Collura, a highly skilled and dedicated clinical endodontist, founded the office of Big Apple Endodontics (formerly Michael J Collura DMD PC) in 2003. He earned his DMD degree from the prestigious School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania in 1993. After completing a one-year General Practice Residency at North Shore University Hospital of Long Island, Dr. Collura pursued specialty training in endodontics back at his alma mater, University of Pennsylvania, in 1996. Armed with advanced education and expertise in endodontics, Dr. Collura confidently ventured into private practices of NYC and Long Island areas, where he continued to provide exceptional endodontic care and an unwavering commitment to the oral health of the communities for more than 27 years.

Chia-Yi Chen

D.D.S., Diplomate, American Board of Endodontics.

Chia-Yi Chen, D.D.S., Diplomate, American Board of Endodontics.

Dr. Chen joined Big Apple Endodontics (formerly Michael J Collura DMD PC) as the partner of the practice in 2007. She was born and raised in Taiwan. After her dental school education and two-year general dentistry residency training in Taiwan, Dr. Chen pursued endodontic specialty training at the College of Dental Medicine, Columbia University in 2000. After completing the postgraduate endodontic program, Dr. Chen joined the full-time endodontic faculty at Columbia from 2002-2007. She also earned her American DDS degree at Columbia University. Then She switched her academic career to a clinical endodontist serving in NYC and Long Island areas. In the meantime, she maintained part-time teaching in Columbia as an Assistant Clinical Professor of Dentistry from 2007 to the present. Driven by an unwavering commitment to excellence, Dr. Chen became a Diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics since 2010.

For any professional communication or inquiries with Dr. Chen, please reach out at drchen@bigappleendo.com.

Kiara Arebalo

Patient Coordinator

Kiara Arebalo, Patient Coordinator

Meet Kiara, the warm and welcoming face of our dental clinic, and the cornerstone of our administrative team. With a passion for helping others and extensive experience in reception and customer service roles, Kiara brings a wealth of knowledge and a friendly, approachable demeanor to our practice. Beyond her exceptional organizational skills, Kiara’s true strength lies in her ability to connect with people. She greets each patient with a warm smile and genuine empathy, making them feel comfortable and valued. Her commitment to excellent customer service extends to assisting patients with scheduling, insurance inquiries, and any questions or concerns they may have. In her spare time, Kiara enjoys giving back to the community through volunteer work and spending quality time with her family. Her dedication to making a positive impact is not limited to the workplace but extends to the world around her.

Alison Crespo

Treatment Coordinator

Alison Crespo, Treatment Coordinator

Meet Alison, the person willing to go above and beyond to make sure you leave the office satisfied with the treatments. She is available for our patients after hours to make sure they don't have any questions and she is always ready to help. Alison loves her team, her patients, and that she is constantly learning new things – and no matter how much she thinks she knows, Alison always values room for growth. Being open and adaptable in an ever-changing field is something that excites Alison, knowing that each day is an opportunity. Jaclyn stays inspired and motivated by her family.

Lidia

Lead Assistant

Lidia, Lead Assistant

Lidia loves that her career gives her the chance to make a significant difference in the lives of her patients. She has been with Big Apple Endo for over 15 years and has been part of a cultural change to a practice driven by quality delivery. At Big Apple Endo Lidia is key to our patient satisfaction and team professional growth. To Lidia, being part of a team means being there for one another, building each other up and lending a helping hand whenever it is needed. Maria takes immense pride in her integrity and the kindness she extends to both her team and her patients.

Salma Velez

Dental Assistant

Salma Velez, Dental Assistant

Coming Soon