Invisalign® Near Me in Santa Cruz, CA

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. 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

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.

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. 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. David C. Li, DDS, is a dedicated dentist with a commitment to providing exceptional dental care. He is an active member of several prestigious dental organizations, including the American Dental Association, California Dental Association, and the Santa Clara County Dental Association.

Dr. Li is a graduate of Leland High School in San Jose, and he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from UC Berkeley. He went on to complete his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) at Meharry Medical College.

Throughout his career, Dr. Li has pursued extensive continuing education to stay at the forefront of dental innovations. He has completed specialized training in Implant Dentistry for the General Dentist from Nobel Bio Care and Advanced International Studies in Surgical Implant Dentistry at UCLA. Additionally, he has attended seminars focused on Predictable Results with Dental Implants, Interdisciplinary Management of Anterior Esthetics with Vincent Kokick, and Advanced Esthetic & Restorative Management at the Seattle Institute for Advanced Dental Education. Dr. Li has also received training in Bone and Soft Tissue Grafting for Advanced Implantologists from The Medical University of South Carolina and the Hiossen Northern California Implant Seminar.

As an Invisalign Certified Doctor, Dr. Li combines his extensive expertise and advanced training to deliver comprehensive care and outstanding results for his patients.

Dr. Brian Hui, originally from Toronto, Canada, moved to the Bay Area with his family in 2008, where he now calls home. He specializes in a wide range of oral and maxillofacial procedures, including:

 • Removal of wisdom teeth
 • Office-based intravenous anesthesia
 • Dentoalveolar surgery
 • Dental implant placement, including full arch rehabilitation
 • Complex bone grafting
 • Sinus lifting
 • Trauma and pathology management
 • Conservative TMJ management using Botox
Dr. Hui is dedicated to providing exceptional care and ensuring the best possible patient experience.

Education

 • Medical School: University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine
 • Residency: University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
 • General Surgery Internship: University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), Department of Surgery
 • Dental School: University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Dentistry

Dr. Joseph M. Cassara, D.D.S., is dedicated to providing exceptional dental care for individuals of all ages, with a strong emphasis on creating a comfortable and patient-centered experience. His practice is built on the principles of clinical excellence and compassionate care, ensuring that every patient receives the highest quality treatment. Dr. Cassara’s commitment to his patients has earned him both their loyalty and the respect of his professional peers. His goal is to deliver an unparalleled dental experience, offering the same level of care that he would provide for his own family. A Mountain View native, Dr. Cassara attended St. Simons Elementary School, St. Francis High School, and later graduated from Santa Clara University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Combined Sciences. He earned his dental degree with honors from the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry in San Francisco, where he was recognized by the Department of Pedodontics for his outstanding work in general dentistry and patient management, particularly with children. When he’s not working, Dr. Cassara enjoys staying active with activities like bicycling, hiking, and basketball. He also loves cooking and cherishing time with his wife, Debbie, and their three children, Julianna, Monica, and Paolo. Dr. Cassara is a proud member of several professional organizations, including: Mid-Peninsula Dental Society Peninsula Institute for Advanced Dental Studies Academy of General Dentistry California Dental Association American Dental Association American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry American Academy of Implant Dentistry

Dr. Eric Brown is an experienced and compassionate dentist who is dedicated to providing the highest quality care in a gentle and attentive manner. He graduated from Marquette University School of Dentistry in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and after practicing in both Wisconsin and Southern California, Dr. Brown was thrilled to relocate to the Monterey Peninsula. Known for his ability to clearly explain treatment options, Dr. Brown works to ensure patients understand their needs while delivering the best possible outcomes using the latest techniques and materials. An active member of several prestigious organizations, Dr. Brown belongs to the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association, the Academy of LDS Dentists, and the Monterey Bay Dental Society. He plays a key role in the local dental community, serving on the governing board of the Monterey Bay Dental Society and having served as its President in 2018. Additionally, Dr. Brown is a mentor for Dr. Gordon Christensen’s Practical Clinical Courses, teaching fellow dentists the newest techniques and materials. He also contributes to Clinician’s Report, a non-profit organization that evaluates and publishes dental product reviews. Originally from Whittier, California, Dr. Brown now lives in Carmel Valley with his wife, Josie, and their three children—Ethan, Cohen, and Harper. The family enjoys biking, camping, snow skiing, and traveling together. Dr. Brown and his family are also active participants in the Bay Area Chapter of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), and they feel fortunate to raise their children in the beautiful Monterey Peninsula.

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. Joseph J. Lee, D.D.S., graduated from the UCLA School of Dentistry in 2004, where he earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree. With a strong commitment to expanding his expertise, he completes over 100 hours of continuing education annually, gaining a wide array of knowledge and skills across all areas of dentistry. Throughout his career, Dr. Lee has earned several prestigious certifications, including in Dental Implantology from the Nobel Biocare Training Institute and the United States Dental Institute for Orthodontics. He has also received numerous certifications from mini-residencies and advanced training programs in the treatment of TMJ and Craniofacial Pain Disorders, as well as Dental Sleep Medicine, through the TMJ and Sleep Therapy Centres International, the Bay Area Center for Craniomandibular Disorders, the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain, and UCLA's Dental Sleep Medicine Mini-Residency. His extensive training and practical experience have made him proficient in Dental Implantology, Orthodontic Braces, Functional Appliance Therapy, TMJ and Craniofacial Pain Disorders, and Dental Sleep Medicine. Dr. Lee is board-certified by the American Board of Craniofacial Pain and the American Board of Craniofacial Dental Sleep Medicine. He has also earned Fellowships from the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain. Driven by a passion for continuous improvement, Dr. Lee strives to provide his patients with comprehensive, state-of-the-art care. Outside of his practice, Dr. Lee enjoys spending time with his wife, Ashley, and their sons, Colin and Caden. Whether playing with his toddlers, hiking with his wife, or occasionally squeezing in a round of golf or a motorcycle ride, Dr. Lee makes sure to balance work and family life. He especially appreciates when his favorite patients bring him fruits and chocolate. Dr. Lee is an active member of several respected dental organizations, including: Active Member, American Dental Association Active Member, California Dental Association Active Member, Mid-Peninsula Dental Society Active Member, Academy of General Dentistry Active Member, International Association for Orthodontics Diplomate, American Board of Craniofacial Pain Diplomate, American Board of Craniofacial Dental Sleep Medicine Fellow, International Congress of Oral Implantologists

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.

Since 1989, patients from the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond have trusted Leung Dental for its renowned personalized, one-on-one care. Dr. Wilson Leung, who has been serving the East Bay community for over 37 years, is recognized as one of the area's leading dentists. His daughter, Dr. Katherine Leung, has always been inspired by her father's commitment to both the community and his patients. She is thrilled to join the Leung Dental team and continue this legacy of care!

The entire team is committed to making sure patients feel informed and at ease throughout their entire dental experience—before, during, and after their visit.

At Leung Dental, they believe in transparency: no treatment or procedure will begin until all of our patient's questions are answered and they feel fully comfortable.

Dr. Benavente has been providing exceptional dental care to the San Mateo County community since 1992. A proud native of San Francisco, he has built strong connections with the people of San Bruno through his private practice and dedication to his patients. Outside of the office, Dr. Benavente enjoys spending time with his wife, Rose, and their three daughters, Christine, Rachel, and Michelle. The Benavente family is actively involved in their community, particularly through St. Robert’s Parish in San Bruno. Dr. Benavente is also committed to giving back and has served as president of the San Bruno Lions Club and as District Governor for Lions District 4-C4 (covering San Francisco to Palo Alto). His leadership extends to the San Mateo County Dental Society, where he has previously served as president. Dr. Benavente is an avid fan of golf, tennis, and pool, and he enjoys relaxing by watching classic movies. Education: University of Southern California Bachelor of Science in Biology, 1982 Doctor of Dental Surgery, 1986 Professional Affiliations: Academy of General Dentistry American Dental Association California Dental Association Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation San Mateo County Dental Society