Tooth Whitening Near Me in Salinas, CA

Dr. Steve Ross graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University in 2000 before pursuing his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), where he graduated in 2008. His dental education focused extensively on both function and aesthetics, providing a solid foundation for his comprehensive approach to patient care.

Committed to lifelong learning, Dr. Ross continuously advances his knowledge in various areas of dentistry. He has completed extensive training in dental implants, dentures, root canal therapy, periodontics, sedation dentistry, and the treatment of medically compromised patients. Since beginning his practice in Salinas, California, in 2009, Dr. Ross has built a reputation for offering exceptional care to his patients.

As a member of the American Dental Association (ADA), Dr. Ross strives to meet his patients’ needs with a patient-centered approach, always aiming to provide the best care possible.

Outside of dentistry, Dr. Ross is an Eagle Scout and enjoys spending time with his wife, Jen, and their four children. He is an avid hiker and enjoys attending local sporting events.

Dr. Ryan Lehr, D.D.S., combines an extensive background in dentistry with a deep commitment to patient care and education. A graduate of Creighton University School of Dentistry, Dr. Lehr continued his education with advanced training at the Kois Institute in Seattle, where he honed his skills in complex dental procedures, including restorative, preventative, and prosthodontic treatments. He holds the distinction of being an Associate Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID), where he is actively involved in testing and evaluating new implant technologies. Before entering the field of dentistry, Dr. Lehr earned a B.S. in Finance from Santa Clara University, where he worked in the fast-paced environments of New York City's trading floors and San Francisco's private banking industry. His transition into dentistry reflects a lifelong passion for healthcare, and he approaches his dental practice with the same precision and attention to detail that he applied in the financial world. Dr. Lehr is known for his meticulous, patient-focused approach to care. He is dedicated to ensuring that every patient is well-informed and involved in their treatment decisions. His ability to blend clinical expertise with an artistic touch enables him to deliver results that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. As an active member of the American Dental Association (ADA), California Dental Association (CDA), and the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), he is committed to lifelong learning and staying up to date with the latest developments in dental science. When he’s not in the office, Dr. Lehr enjoys a variety of sports, including golf, tennis, skiing, and running. He values time spent with his wife, Martha, a Pacific Grove native, and their son, Davis, enjoying the beauty and outdoor opportunities the Monterey Peninsula offers. Dr. Lehr’s professional skills, dedication to his patients, and appreciation for family and community make him a respected and trusted dentist in the area.

Dr. Esmeralda Muñoz is a dedicated and compassionate dentist with a strong commitment to both patient care and community service. Raised in Woodland, California, Dr. Muñoz earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology and Chemistry from Sacramento State University, followed by a Doctorate in Dental Surgery from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). After completing her education, she worked at the Sacramento Native American Health Clinic, providing dental care to underserved populations and making a significant impact in the community. Dr. Muñoz is also passionate about education and has served as part-time faculty at UCSF School of Dentistry, where she trained future dentists in restorative dentistry, endodontics, and oral surgery. With extensive post-graduate training in oral surgery, she remains committed to continuing education to stay at the forefront of her field. Giving back is a core value of Dr. Muñoz's practice. She actively participates in school outreach programs to promote preventive dental care and volunteers at a clinic for homeless veterans. Her dedication to improving the oral health of her community is evident both in and outside of the dental office. Outside of her professional work, Dr. Muñoz enjoys traveling, expanding her culinary horizons, and spending time at home with her husband, Sevan, and their two children. She also loves relaxing with her pets, which include a guinea pig, cats, and a Chihuahua. Dr. Muñoz’s combination of expertise, passion for education, and commitment to her community make her a respected and well-rounded dental professional.

The Watsonville Dental Center, founded by Dr. Steven T. Kim, DDS, has been a trusted provider of exceptional dental care in the Watsonville area since 2003. Recognized for his excellence in patient care, Dr. Kim has earned the “Best Dentist Award” five times from the Consumer Reports Bureau, a testament to his unwavering commitment to quality service. Dr. Kim completed his dental education at Loma Linda School of Dentistry, after earning his undergraduate degree at Loma Linda University and the University of Southern California's Letters and Sciences program. With more than 20 years of experience in oral health, he specializes in comprehensive dental care, including oral rehabilitation and maintenance. The practice prides itself on offering a wide range of services, such as implants, root canals, and oral surgery, all performed directly by Dr. Kim. Families are invited to schedule appointments and experience a personalized approach to dental care, where expertise and compassion go hand in hand to ensure beautiful and lasting smiles.

Dr. Jesse Halbleib is a skilled and experienced dentist with over 25 years of practice, specializing in Dental Implants, Restorative and Cosmetic Dentistry, and Sleep Apnea Treatments. A native of Santa Clara, California, he graduated from Wilcox High School in 1978. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of the Pacific in Stockton in 1982 before going on to attend Emory Dental School in Atlanta, Georgia, where he graduated in 1986. In 1994, Dr. Halbleib opened his dental practice in Watsonville, California, where he has been dedicated to serving the community ever since. He is committed to providing comprehensive dental care, constantly improving his expertise by attending ongoing seminars and courses. Dr. Halbleib uses the latest technology, including 3D Cone Beam Scans and CEREC Same Day Dentistry, to ensure high-quality results for his patients. His approach to dentistry focuses on long-term outcomes, taking a holistic view of each patient's smile rather than just addressing immediate concerns. Outside of his practice, Dr. Halbleib enjoys outdoor sports and cherishes time spent with his wife Shannon (a BSN, RN), and their three children: Johnny, Shane and Brady. His practice offers a wide array of services, from veneers to crowns, braces to dental implants, catering to the diverse needs of patients at all stages of life.

Dr. Eugenio Bedolla is driven by a passion for creating opportunities and enhancing lives, one smile at a time. There’s nothing more fulfilling than helping his patients achieve the smiles they’ve always dreamed of, especially when they’ve thought it was out of reach. The trust his patients place in him is the ultimate reward. For Dr. Bedolla, dentistry is a unique fusion of art and science, enabling him to improve his patients' health and well-being while boosting their confidence. His approach centers on listening to each patient's concerns and crafting a personalized path to help them meet their individual goals. Dr. Bedolla graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Fresno State, then went on to earn his dental degree (DDS) from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). He further honed his skills with a Residency in General Dentistry (GPR) at University Medical Center in Fresno, CA. In 2006, Dr. Bedolla made the move from Fresno to Watsonville to join Dr. Lee Williams at Green Valley Dentistry. It was here that he found the perfect community to raise his children and practice dentistry. He feels privileged to work alongside a talented team that consistently impresses him with their ability to connect with patients of all ages and backgrounds. Their warmth and understanding create an environment that makes every day at work a joy. Dr. Bedolla is inspired by their commitment to growth, positive attitudes, and relentless pursuit of excellence in patient care. Committed to lifelong learning, Dr. Bedolla stays on the cutting edge of dentistry. He attends seminars, participates in lectures, and reviews the latest dental research to ensure he provides the highest quality care using the most advanced techniques and materials available. Some of Dr. Bedolla’s continuing education accomplishments include: Fellow at the American Sleep and Breathing Academy Qualified Dentist, American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine Vivos Institute Alumnus and Qualified Provider TMJ and Neuromuscular Dentistry Provider Spear Education Alumnus Orthodontics diploma from the United States Dental Institute Originally from Michoacán, Mexico, Dr. Bedolla and his family moved to California in the late 1980s and early 1990s. It was here in California that he discovered his passion for dentistry. He is deeply grateful for the opportunities this country offers to help people achieve their dreams. Dr. Bedolla has two children: Alex, a student at Cabrillo College, and Kirsten, who is in high school at Aptos. When he's not at work, Dr. Bedolla enjoys spending quality time with his children, whether at home or going for walks together. He also takes pleasure in tending to his fruit tree orchard, walking his dog Rocky, reading, or strumming his guitar. As a sports enthusiast, Dr. Bedolla follows the San Francisco 49ers, Golden State Warriors, and Fresno State Bulldogs.

Dr. Michael Melek is deeply committed to providing exceptional dental care to the Santa Cruz community, where he is honored to work alongside his family. With a passion for excellence in dentistry, Dr. Melek strives to deliver the highest quality of care to his patients, ensuring their health and well-being.

Dr. Melek graduated with top honors from the University of Michigan, where he earned recognition for his academic excellence and received the prestigious Crown and Bridge award. He then advanced his expertise by specializing in Implantology and Orthodontics. He is an active member of the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the American Orthodontic Society.

A true advocate for health and wellness, Dr. Melek is excited to be part of a community that shares these values. Outside of the office, he is an avid outdoor enthusiast who enjoys hiking the beautiful landscapes of the Monterey Bay area. Dr. Melek feels fortunate to call Santa Cruz his home—a place he considers a paradise and a community he is proud to serve.

With a strong commitment to both professional excellence and community involvement, Dr. Melek is dedicated to making a positive impact on the oral health and overall wellness of his patients.

Dr. Sudeep brings a wealth of expertise in dental aesthetics, having personally completed over 10,000 cosmetic dentistry restorations. She is certified in both hard and soft tissue Laser Dentistry and is an authorized provider of Invisalign Braces. To accommodate patients who experience anxiety about dental procedures, Dr. Sudeep offers sedation dentistry options, ensuring that everyone leaves Santa Teresa Dental Center with a smile.

Education and Professional Development
Dr. Sudeep graduated from the University of the Pacific, School of Dentistry in San Francisco in 2000, ranking in the top five percent of her class and earning special recognition as a member of the Honors Society (Tau Kappa Omega). With a strong focus on cosmetic dentistry, she has pursued numerous advanced post-graduate courses at prestigious institutions, including the University of California at San Francisco, the University of the Pacific, UCLA, and USC. Dr. Sudeep is dedicated to delivering the highest quality of care by incorporating the latest advancements in dental technology.

The California Dental Board requires dentists in California to complete 50 hours of continuing education every two years to maintain their knowledge in the field. Dr. Sudeep surpasses this standard, having accrued over 200 hours of continuing education in the last two years.

Her studies concentrate on Advanced Aesthetic Dentistry and Neuromuscular Dentistry. She has also participated in a post-graduate training program at the renowned Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies, where she completed the "Advanced Functional Aesthetics" course taught by Dr. William Dickerson.

Dr. Sudeep is an active member of several professional organizations, including:
 • Seattle Study Club
 • Dental Organization of Conscious Sedation
 • University of the Pacific Alumni Association
 • American Dental Association
 • California Dental Association
 • Santa Clara County Dental Society

If you’re searching for a local dentist who is knowledgeable in the latest treatment technologies and prioritizes your comfort and dental health, contact Santa Teresa Dental Center to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sudeep today!

At Santa Teresa Dental Center, we are committed to providing high-quality, comprehensive dental care to the San Jose, CA community. We welcome patients of all ages!

Why Choose Us
 • Beautiful smiles with dental veneers
 • Conscious sedation options for anxious patients
 • Saturday appointments available
 • Dentist with over 25 years of experience
 • Accepts all PPO insurances

Dr. Defaii earned his Biochemistry degree (Magna Cum Laude) from California State University in San Francisco, where he received The Outstanding Academic Achievement Award and was inducted into the Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society.

He then obtained his Doctorate in Dental Surgery from the University of Southern California, graduating with multiple honors, including The Dental Ambassador Award and the Certificate of Merit from the American Society of Dentistry for Children.

In 1989, Dr. Defaii founded his own dental practice, driven by a commitment to providing advanced, comprehensive, and compassionate care. His dedication to cosmetic dentistry is further reflected in his participation in a four-year study club at the University of California, San Francisco School of Dentistry, where he gained extensive expertise in the field. He continually seeks to expand his knowledge and skills in dentistry.

Dr. Defaii is known for his personalized approach, taking the time to understand his patients' concerns and thoroughly discussing the best treatment options. He prioritizes comfort and quality care in every interaction.

Education
 • California State University, San Francisco
  Bachelor’s Degree in Biochemistry
  Honors: Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society

 • University of Southern California
  Doctor of Dental Surgery
  Honors: Omicron Kappa Upsilon

With nearly two decades of experience in the dental field, Dr. Karen Ho is dedicated to providing exceptional care alongside her fantastic team in Campbell. She values building meaningful connections with her patients, whether it's during their first visit or catching up during their routine checkups. Dr. Ho is passionate about creating a comfortable environment where patients feel heard and cared for.

Dr. Ho’s journey into dentistry began with her love for arts and crafts in childhood, which led her to pursue a career where she could blend her artistic talents with a passion for healthcare. She chose dentistry because it allows her to positively impact patients’ lives by enhancing both their oral health and the appearance of their smiles.

After completing a Physiology degree at UC Davis, Dr. Ho earned her dental degree from the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry. To stay at the forefront of dental advancements, she completes about 50 hours of continuing education annually, with a special focus on attending Spear Continuing Education seminars. Dr. Ho has been a member of the Spear Study Club for nine years, collaborating with other dental professionals to refine treatment plans and learn about the latest techniques. She is also an active member of the California Dental Association, the American Dental Association, and the Academy of Biomimetic Dentistry.

Dr. Ho is deeply committed to advancing her skills and has completed a year-long mastership program at the Alleman Center for Biomimetic Dentistry. Additionally, she has participated in advanced training through the BAARD Institute and the Nejad Institute in Southern California, focusing on creating durable, long-lasting dental restorations for her patients.

Originally from Canada, Dr. Ho moved to Mountain View at the age of four. She and her husband, high school sweethearts, are now parents to two children. Outside of the dental office, Dr. Ho enjoys high-intensity interval watching movies, exploring new restaurants, cooking, hiking, biking, playing volleyball, and training.

She values spending quality time with her family, including playing video games together. Dr. Ho strives to deliver the highest level of care to each patient, combining expertise with compassion to make every visit a positive experience.

Dr. Chris, a proud San Jose native, was raised in a family of dedicated dentists, giving him a deep-rooted connection to the profession from a young age. Despite starting his career as a dental assistant at 15 in his aunt’s practice, he initially followed a different path and worked in firefighting. His desire to serve others led him to become an emergency medical technician and fire advisor, experiences that helped shape his medical career. It wasn’t until later that he discovered his passion for surgical dentistry, reigniting his drive to pursue a career in helping people through dentistry.

Dr. Chris graduated with his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the Universidad de La Salle, and he remains committed to advancing his skills through membership in several professional organizations, including the Santa Clara County Dental Association, the American Dental Association, and the California Dental Association.

As the founder of Vino Smiles Dentistry, Dr. Chris is deeply committed to providing exceptional care and building lasting relationships with his patients. Named after his inspiration, Kobe Bryant, Dr. Chris created Vino Smiles as a place where he could positively impact lives through trust and transparency. His warm demeanor, combined with his passion for delivering outstanding care, ensures that every patient feels at ease and well cared for.

When he’s not in the office, Dr. Chris cherishes time with his family. He’s a devoted husband and a proud father to his newborn daughter. A lifelong Lakers fan, he enjoys keeping up with NBA action and hitting the basketball court when he can.

With a passion for dentistry that spans over two decades, Dr. Catalina Phan has been providing exceptional care since 1997. Although her list of credentials and achievements is extensive (see below), Dr. Phan values the personal connections she forms with her patients above all else.

A native of Willow Glen, California, Dr. Phan now calls Saratoga home, where she lives with her husband and two young children. Striking a healthy balance between her rewarding career and family life is a priority for her, and she finds joy in both her professional and personal roles.

As a dentist, Dr. Phan’s mission is to provide patients with a comfortable, top-notch dental experience while achieving beautiful, healthy smiles. Her passion for dentistry is evident in the care she provides, utilizing the latest procedures and treatments to ensure the best results for every patient. Her goal is to treat her patients as family and to deliver care that makes a lasting impact.

When she’s not practicing dentistry, Dr. Phan is dedicated to being the best partner to her husband, a loving mother to her children, and a devoted daughter to her parents. While balancing work and family life can be challenging at times, the moments of joy—whether it’s seeing a patient’s smile transform, helping someone find relief from pain, or receiving a precious gift from her child—remind her that every effort is worth it.

Education & Credentials:

Dr. Phan graduated from Willow Glen High in 1988 and went on to earn a B.S. in Physiology from UC Davis in 1997. She also holds a B.S. in Dental Materials and a Doctorate in Dental Science, both from UC San Francisco, completed in 1997.

Memberships, Associations & Certifications:

 • Nobel Biocare Bronze Award in Implants
• • Advanced Synergy Training in Implants
• • Restorative Therapy for Osseointegrated Dental Implants
• • American Dental Association
• • California Dental Association
• • Santa Clara County Dental Association
 • Academy of General Dentistry
• • American Orthodontic Society Certification
• • Invisalign Certification
 • American Academy of Facial Esthetics Trained and Certified
 • Oral Conscious Sedation Certification
 • Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation
 • Nitrous Oxide Certification
 • Sirona Laser Certification
 • America’s Top Dentists, Consumers’ Research Council of America

Dr. Phan’s commitment to continuous learning ensures that her patients benefit from the most advanced and effective dental treatments available.

Dr. Brian Kong earned his dental degree from the University of the Pacific Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco, following his undergraduate studies at UCLA, where he majored in Economics and Psychology.

While he enjoyed the vibrant city life in Los Angeles and San Francisco, he decided to return to his hometown of San Jose, where he appreciates the short, traffic-free commute to work. He is an active member of the Santa Clara Dental Society, Golden State Spear Study Club, Spear Faculty Club, and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

Every day, Dr. Kong looks forward to his work and enjoys building relationships with his patients. He is committed to providing the most effective and least invasive treatments possible, utilizing the latest materials, techniques, and technology. Although he enjoys a broad range of dental procedures, his true passion lies in cosmetic dentistry and creating beautiful, healthy smiles.

To maintain his expertise, Dr. Kong participates in numerous postgraduate dental education courses each year, learning from some of the best dentists globally. He has traveled extensively to enhance his understanding of dentistry and even participated in a dental mission trip to Ecuador, where he treated local residents with limited access to dental care.

Outside of work, when he's not busy tidying up or making repairs at home (often prompted by his wife) or chasing after his toddler, Dr. Kong loves to snowboard, explore Costco, work out, and spend quality time with his family. He’s a fan of online shopping, enjoys Panda Express orange chicken, and has a passion for brewing the perfect pourover coffee. He can often be found glued to the TV during UCLA, Warriors, 49ers, or Giants games, and he believes the DVR is one of mankind's greatest inventions, especially for overlapping games. Dr. Kong also candidly admits that he needs to floss more consistently and recently completed Invisalign treatment after his teeth shifted from neglecting to wear his retainer as a teenager.

Dr. Kavneet Bindra is a caring and confident dentist known for her exceptional communication skills, particularly in helping patients who struggle with dental anxiety and fear. Guided by the belief that "A smile is a curve that sets everything straight," she strives to enhance her patients' smiles and self-confidence through attentive and professional dental care. Dr. Bindra is dedicated to staying at the forefront of dentistry by using advanced technology and continually enhancing her knowledge through ongoing education. Dr. Bindra earned her Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from the University of the Pacific in Stockton before obtaining her dental degree from the University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco. Her training covers all areas of general dentistry, with a special focus on treating children, patients with special needs, and the elderly. She is an active member of the American Dental Association (ADA), the California Dental Association (CDA), and the Santa Clara County Dental Society. Outside of her practice, Dr. Bindra enjoys spending quality time with her family, discovering new restaurants, traveling, and taking Zumba classes.

Dr. Saboowala was raised in a family of dentists, which ignited her passion for dentistry early on. She finds great joy in working with people from all walks of life and building lasting, trusting relationships with her patients. After earning her dental degree in India, she went on to complete her DDS at the University of Illinois at Chicago, where she graduated with distinction and received the prestigious “Golden Scaler” award for excellence in clinical periodontics. With more than ten years of experience, Dr. Saboowala has become known for providing gentle, comprehensive dental care to the families of Cupertino, including patients who may feel apprehensive about dental visits, have special needs, or face complex medical conditions. She particularly enjoys working with children and is honored to support initiatives like the ADA Foundation’s “Give Kids a Smile” program. Dr. Saboowala is dedicated to staying informed about the latest developments in dental care, ensuring that her patients receive the most advanced treatment options available. She is Invisalign® certified and holds memberships with the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association, and the Santa Clara County Dental Society. Outside of her practice, Dr. Saboowala enjoys traveling, watching movies, and creating intricate henna art. Most importantly, she treasures time spent with her husband and two children.

Dr. J.J. Salehieh is known for his dedication to creating beautiful, confident smiles, which has led to his practice becoming one of the most respected and sought-after cosmetic and multi-specialty dental clinics in Silicon Valley. He received his dental education at The University of the Pacific School of Dentistry in San Francisco, now known as The Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry. His exceptional skill and commitment to excellence earned him the prestigious Advanced General Dentistry Resident of the Year award in 1993. With over two decades of experience in cosmetic dentistry and as a Partner at Cupertino Dental Group, Dr. Salehieh has earned numerous accolades for his leadership and contributions to the field. His induction into The Pierre Fauchard Academy and fellowship with the American College of Dentists reflect his outstanding achievements. He is passionate about education and regularly contributes to the field by co-authoring books and writing articles. Dr. Salehieh enjoys sharing his knowledge by lecturing and teaching cosmetic dentistry, emphasizing the importance of quality and precision in creating life-changing smiles. His collaborative approach with his team ensures the highest standards of care and exceptional results for his patients. Beyond his dental expertise, Dr. Salehieh is an active and generous member of his community. His strong belief in giving back is demonstrated through his involvement in outreach programs for schools, coaching, mentoring, and supporting various charitable initiatives. Dr. Salehieh remains closely connected to his alma mater, The University of the Pacific School of Dentistry, where he served as a faculty member for 13 years. His dedication to future dental professionals is also reflected in the Salehieh-Shehabi-Stoll Endowment, a fund he established to assist underprivileged dental students. Dr. Salehieh is proud to be a member of several prestigious dental organizations, including The American Dental Association, The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the Santa Clara Dental Society, and the Peninsula Advanced Dental Study Group. When he’s not practicing dentistry, Dr. Salehieh enjoys spending time with his wife, Dr. Ellery Stoll, and their three children. Together, they stay active by coaching their kids' soccer and baseball teams in Saratoga and dedicating their winters to skiing, with their children participating in the Heavenly Ski Team in Lake Tahoe.

Dr. Patricia Chao, a dedicated dentist in Santa Clara, was born and raised in Houston, Texas. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from The University of Texas School of Dentistry. After spending a few years practicing in Chicago, Dr. Chao and her family made the move to California, where they now enjoy the sunny weather of Santa Clara. Dr. Chao is an active member of the Santa Clara County Dental Society, the American Dental Association (ADA), and the California Dental Association (CDA). She is also the chair of the AACA San Jose Clear Aligners Study Club. Dr. Chao proudly calls Santa Clara home, where she enjoys raising her three young children with her husband, Jeffrey. She is affiliated with the following organizations: American Dental Association (ADA) California Dental Association (CDA) Academy of General Dentistry American Association of Clear Aligners Santa Clara County Dental Society

Dr. Danielle Wehle is a respected expert in cosmetic, implant, and sedation dentistry, with over 20 years of experience in the field. She graduated from Northwestern University in 1997 after completing her undergraduate studies at San Jose State University. Recently, Dr. Wehle relocated to a state-of-the-art dental office, specially designed to deliver exceptional dental implant treatments. Dedicated to providing the highest level of care, Dr. Wehle stays current with the latest advancements in dentistry by regularly attending continuing education courses. This ensures that her patients benefit from the most advanced and comprehensive treatments available. A native of California, Dr. Wehle is married and has three children. Outside of her practice, she enjoys spending time with her family, participating in children's activities, and pursuing her hobbies of skiing, golfing, and traveling.