Academy Dental, Vision and Orthodontics Colorado Springs

Corner of N. Academy & Austin Bluffs

• Bachelor of Science - Colorado State University

• Bachelor of Science in Pre-Med - Colorado State University

• Doctorate - Pacific University College of Optometry

I became an optometrist because I've always had an interest in helping others. I also did not have any form of eye care as a child. My first eye exam was at age 14, thinking that blurry distance vision was normal for a teenager. I then understood what a difference an eye doctor can make in one's life. My vision became worse every year and I needed access to eye care, glasses, and contact lenses. There were not many answers for a struggling teen and college kid who could not afford the care I needed. I was driven to finish school and become an eye doctor so i can help those in need, like myself.

I've been married for 25 years to Roxann, we have 4 children, 3 boys, one girl. We own a dog, Winston. I was born in Southern California and I have two younger sisters. We all live in Colorado Springs, along with my mom. I enjoy all things music and all sports. Tennis & Guitar are my favorite.

• Graduated as a Dentist - Universidad Central de Venezuela
• Practiced dentistry in Venezuela for almost 4 years
• Doctor of Science - Colorado University

I became a dentist because I love helping people have a healthy smile and I love to work with children. I wanted to be a dentist since I was a little child. I always enjoyed my dental visits and used to tell my dentist that I would one day be like her, and now it's for real!

I was born in Florida, but raised in Venezuela. I have been married for almost 20 years and have seven children, six boys and one girl. We have very little quiet time, but we thoroughly enjoy our active family.

• Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry - University of California San Diego
• Bachelor of Science in Cell Biology - University of California San Diego
• Minor in English Literature - University of California San Diego
• Doctor of Optometry - Southern California College of Optometry
• Dental Residency in Ocular Disease with Indian Health Services at the Hu Hu Kam Memorial Hospital in Arizona

When I was in junior high school I started to play tennis more competitively, but I was noticing I started to lose a lot of games because I couldn't tell if the ball was in or out of the court. That's when I got my first pair of glasses and having the ability to see clearer again, along with the wonderful experience with my eye doctor, got me curious about the field. I went on to be a vision tech at a family practice where my friends dad worked and really enjoyed working with others and patients. Eventually I went on to become an optometrist myself and have really enjoyed working with children.

I have 2 children. My accomplished kids are now off to college and graduate school. I look forward to travel and life's adventures.

• Bachelor of Arts in Psychology - University of Colorado at Boulder
• Doctor of Optometry - Arizona College of Optometry at Midwestrn University
• Family Practice Residency Program - University of Houston

After years of wearing glasses as a young child, my interest in optometry began to blossom. I shadowed several providers and ultimately worked for one of my childhood optometrists. Being immersed in the field, I truly enjoyed the excitement of eye care but more importantly helping people maintain the gift of sight. As an adult my appreciation for the field has only grown and I truly understand the value and importance of vision for overall success and happiness.

My hobbies include traveling, hiking, playing tennis, and spending time with my dog Sheldon. Sheldon is quite mischievous and I never know what type of adventures we will have when we're together!

• Undergraduate - Smith College in Northampton
• Doctor of Dental Medicine - Tufts University School of Dental Medicine
• Master of Science in Orthodontic Specialty - University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine

I wanted to be in the medical field and felt drawn into the dental field for the fact that I could focus on a specific part of the body. After getting into dental school and learning more about teeth, I wanted to specialize in straightening teeth, which was orthodontics. The transformation that patients go through is amazing, and it's rewarding to see patients happy after spending a long time and effort into it.

My husband is a general dentist and we have a soon-to-be 4 year old daughter who loves to do everything.

• Dental Degree - Universidad Central de Venezuela in Caracas Venezuela
• Doctor of Dental Surgery - University of California Los Angeles

I had the nicest dentist when I was a kid. I remember going with my mom and while she was getting work done, my dentist would let me play with her instruments. To me it was the best job in the world. I was about 8 years old but since then I told myself I wanted to become a dentist, and that's exactly what I did.

I am from Caracas, Venezuela. I am married to my husband, Gabriel, and have 2 boys, Daniel and Gabriel. We moved to Colorado Springs in 2012 and we love it here! We enjoy snowboarding in the winter and hiking in the summer!

• Bachelor of Arts in Biology - Union College
• Doctor of Dental Surgery - Loma Linda University
• General Practice Residency - University of Minnesota

It's a versatile career that allows me to make a difference in the health of those in my community.

I love all things Disney and even studied for the dental boards at the parks. I enjoy planning celebrations and I just recently picked up kayaking.

• Bachelor of Science in Biology - Dixie State University
• Minor in Chemistry - Dixie State University
• Doctor of Dental Medicine - Oregon Health & Science University

I became a dentist because I like using scientific knowledge, working with my hands, and helping people to become and stay healthy.

I love playing the piano and guitar, reading, writing, drawing, wakeboarding, kiteboarding, snowboarding, and traveling.