From an early age, Dr. Ackel knew she wanted a career centered around helping others. Dentistry allowed her to combine her passion for building meaningful relationships with patients with her love for creativity and hands-on craftsmanship. The conversations and relationships with her patients, coworkers, and mentors are the best parts of her day.
Originally from Natchitoches, LA, Dr. Ackel then moved to Lafayette where she attended University of Louisiana-Lafayette. From there she spent some time in New Orleans, where she met her husband Sam. They decided to move back to Lafayette, an area close to their hearts.
Dr. Ackel’s Treatment Philosophy
Dr. Ackel believes the best dentistry begins with trust. Her goal is to build lasting relationships with her patients by listening to their concerns, understanding their goals, and creating treatment plans together—not simply telling them what to do. She places a strong emphasis on prevention and preserving natural tooth structure whenever possible because the best dentistry is helping patients avoid needing preventable invasive procedures.
What Dr. Ackel Finds Satisfying About Dentistry
She enjoys helping patients achieve healthier smiles while creating personalized treatment experiences that make them feel comfortable and cared for. For Dr. Ackel, one of the most rewarding parts of her profession is seeing the confidence and happiness that a healthy smile can bring.
Personal Life
She and her husband, Sam, have a beautiful daughter named Merritt. They also have a golden retriever named Cooper, who makes the best big brother!
They love the Acadiana area because of its close-knit community, friendly people, and the way neighbors genuinely care for one another. For Dr. Ackel, it quickly became home while she was in college. After dental school she knew it was where she wanted to build her career, raise her family, and care for patients for years to come.
When she’s not at work, she enjoys reading, cooking, exercising, and exploring new restaurants in Acadiana.
Education
- University of Louisiana at Lafayette
- Louisiana State University School of Dentistry
Memberships
- ADA – American Dental Association
- LDA – Louisiana Dental Association
- AGD – Academy of General Dentistry