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Meet Dr. Velez
I Love Serving Smiles
Perfecting smiles and encouraging confidence are our specialties, but it would not be possible without our caring and experienced orthodontist, Dr. Velez!
Dr. Monica Velez
ABO Certified Orthodontist
I am here to change as many lives as I can, by making people more confident! It is my passion to help others feel better about themselves. That is what I am here for.
As a little girl, I had big crowded flared-out teeth that were impossible to miss! My mom then took me and my brother to get braces. I remember the orthodontist and his staff at that office making every appointment super fun and something we always looked forward to. Once my teeth were straight, I realized how good that made me feel about myself and since then I can’t stop smiling. I became more confident and even decided to do this for other people.
As an orthodontist, we have families coming to see us to help them with their teeth, and I always remember when I was that little patient. For that reason we strive to make our patients feel good in our office and for the rest of their lives. We also ensure families can afford treatment.I am here to change as many lives as I can, by making people more confident! It is my passion to help others feel better about themselves. That is what I am here for.
The value of a healthy smile goes beyond cosmetics. When a person has a healthy smile, one that they love, they share it more often and are more comfortable in every interaction. My work enables me to improve the emotional and physical health of people in our community. It’s tremendously rewarding and I love every minute of it!
We treat patients of all ages starting at the age of seven and specialize in braces and Invisalign. We work with each patient to develop a personal treatment plan that works best for their smile. We serve all the high desert communities including Apple Valley, Victorville, Hesperia, Adelanto, Oak Hills, Barstow, Big Bear, and Lake Arrowhead.
We offer flexible and affordable payment plans and low down payments because we feel that everyone deserves a beautiful smile and affordability should not be an obstacle.
Education & Commitment to Continuing Education
- Doctorate of Dental Medicine with High Honors — University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico
- General Practice Residency — Albert Einstein College at Montefiore Medical Center, New York City, New York
- Master of Science and Orthodontics Specialty — Case Western University, Cleveland, Ohio
- Mastering the Business of Orthodontics Certificate — Wharton University of Pennsylvania
- Invisalign Platinum Plus Provider
We attend multiple seminars every year as a team. I personally take a dental class every week, to get better at everything we do here in the office. I am a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, a voluntary certification completed by 33% of Orthodontists. I am very humbled to have been honored as the Reader’s Choice for Best Orthodontist in Inland Empire Magazine.
Professional Memberships
- American Board of Orthodontics, Diplomate
- American Association of Orthodontists
- Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists
- California Association of Orthodontists
- Tri-County Dental Society
Personal Life
I’m originally from Ponce, Puerto Rico. After studying and working as a general dentist and researcher at the University of Puerto Rico, NYU, and Montefiore Medical Center in New York City, I moved to Cleveland, OH, for my orthodontics specialty program. It was there where I met my husband. We moved to California and I was in private practice in the Los Angeles area before coming to Apple Valley in 2011.
Outside the office, I love to workout with anything Peloton and travel. My favorite place in the world is the beaches in Puerto Rico, where I enjoy spending every Christmas with my family and our three kids.
I love to stay active, listen to audiobooks, and take a million pictures everywhere I go. My favorite movie is Elf because just like him, I also love Christmas and spaghetti. I also love pancakes and use any excuse to go out to eat with my work and home family!
Our office values are based on respect for each other and having a good attitude. We are also committed to learning and getting better every day. If you think this is something that matches your values, we are for sure the best fit for you!
