Meet Our Doctors
We are your trusted local leader in orthodontics, known for building strong, personal connections with each patient. We believe in treating each patient like family, ensuring personalized attention and a positive experience every time you visit. Beyond the office, we’re proud to give back by sponsoring local schools and travel sports teams, supporting the next generation both in and out of the dental chair. Our commitment extends to every aspect of your care and our community, where we strive to make a lasting, positive impact.
Our Unique History
Our practice was founded by George S. Tate, DDS, in 1966 and was joined by his son, Richard H. Tate, DDS, in 1983. Together, they built a legendary reputation for compassionate and exemplary care throughout the Roanoke and New River Valleys. In 2018, Dr. Richard Tate retired, passing on their esteemed legacy to Christopher S. Hansen, MS, DMD.
Christopher Hansen, MS, DMD
About
Dr. Hansen was born in Seattle, completed his dental school at Nova Southeastern University in South Florida and an orthodontic residency at Louisiana State University, and is pleased to make a home with his wife, Christina, and children, Naomi and Owen, here where many of his family’s roots spring.
He is a board certified orthodontist (a distinction achieved by only about 1 in 3 orthodontists) and keeps up to date with the latest advances and research in the field, but mostly he just enjoys making his patients smile.
Dr. Hansen values the opportunity to get to know his patients, building meaningful relationships and being a part of their lives for the years they’re in his care. He strives to make a positive impact during each visit, understanding that sometimes a patient’s time in the chair may be one of the few moments of kindness or joy in their day. That’s why he ensures that every appointment is a pleasant experience. Watching his patients grow and transform over the years is deeply rewarding to him, and what he loves most is seeing them finish treatment with a renewed sense of confidence.
Outside of the office, he enjoys the outdoors, golfing, a good book on the beach, and tries to stay active in his church and community. More than anything, however, he simply likes to spend time with his wife, children, and their dog Toby.
Education
- Trinity Western University
- Nova Southeastern University
- Louisiana State University
Deborah deSa, DMD
About
Dr. Deborah deSa, a distinguished alumna of Cornell University, earned her Bachelor of Science degree with Distinction and later pursued her DMD degree at the University of Pennsylvania, where she excelled as a Dean’s Scholar. Following dental school, Dr. deSa dedicated three additional years to specialized training in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics at Stony Brook University. Post-residency, she practiced orthodontics in New York before relocating to Virginia in 2022.
Currently residing in Blacksburg with her husband Roger and their two children, Kyle and Sophie, Dr. deSa and her family embrace the vibrant community. They find it to be an ideal place to raise a family, appreciating the diverse offerings of the region. In her leisure time, Dr. deSa indulges in her passion for travel, exploring new restaurants, and engaging in various puzzles and games, including her daily dose of Wordle. Always on the lookout for new family games, she welcomes any recommendations.
As a seasoned orthodontics specialist, Dr. deSa takes joy in working with patients of all ages, dedicated to crafting beautiful, healthy smiles. Her commitment to delivering top-notch orthodontic care is matched by the warmth of her practice environment. Dr. deSa is thrilled to be part of the Hansen Orthodontics team and eagerly anticipates the opportunity to meet and connect with you!
Education
- Cornell University
- University of Pennsylvania
- Stony Brook University
