About Padilla Dentistry & Orthodontics
Aligning a brighter future for our patients
The Padilla Difference
At Padilla Dentistry and Orthodontics, we devote the time, expertise, and the latest dental technology to ensuring you have a healthy and effortless smile. Drs. Chris Padilla, Stephanie Padilla, and Michael Dunn are passionate about serving you with the highest level of comfortable, evidence-based dental care in Albuquerque.
Your trust in us means everything. We’re grateful to serve our patients by helping them smile brighter and more confidently. We believe every patient is deserving of the most courteous and attentive treatment that we can give.
Personalized Support
We assist you throughout every stage of the process — from scheduling an appointment and explaining treatment options to removing the mystery from insurance and financing.
Meticulous Detail
The smallest details make the biggest impact. We pursue excellence in every aspect of our work, partnering with the best dental labs and using advanced technology.
Authentic Relationships
We prioritize building personal connections with each patient. Our ultimate goal is to earn your trust, help you feel comfortable, and become your lifelong dental care provider.
Meet Your Dentists
Christopher Padilla, DDS
Dr. Chris Padilla grew up here in Albuquerque and is dedicated to helping patients smile. Dr. Chris is known for cultivating patient relationships built on trust and friendship. He has completed several hundred hours of continuing education in cosmetic and implant dentistry. His commitment to academic achievement and continuing education allows him to provide his patients with the latest, most advanced care and amazing results.
Education & Awards
Doctor of Dental Surgery, Baylor College of Dentistry
Bachelor of Science in Biology, University of New Mexico
Advanced Education in General Dentistry Program, Baylor College of Dentistry
Awarded “Top Resident”, Baylor College of Dentistry
Michael Dunn, DDS
Dr. Michael Dunn grew up in Farmington, New Mexico, and finds it critical to create a comfortable environment for his patients. He is compassionate and believes every patient encounter is meaningful. Dr. Dunn is passionate about digital dentistry and provides guest lectures at UNM’s Dental Residency Program. He actively participates in continued education events to ensure he is providing up-to-date care.
When he’s not at the office, Dr. Dunn enjoys hiking, biking, and golfing with his wife and daughter.
Education & Awards
Bachelor of Science in Biology, University of New Mexico
Doctor of Dental Surgery, Creighton University School of Dentistry
Advanced Education in General Dentistry Program, University of New Mexico
Stephanie Padilla, DDS
Stephanie Padilla was born and raised in Albuquerque and loves serving her local community with the highest level of dental care. Dr. Stephanie graduated from La Cueva high school and continued on to the University of New Mexico, where she played for the women’s basketball team. Patients often remark on Dr. Stephanie’s kind and attentive approach. She is committed to providing an uplifting experience and the highest quality care.
As a mother herself, Dr. Stephanie understands the importance of a caring and nurturing experience, especially for kids. She loves working with both adolescents and adults to provide top-notch orthodontic treatment.
Education & Awards
Bachelor of Science in Biology | Minor in Spanish, University of New Mexico
- Achieved award for UNM student athlete with GPA of 4.0 or higher Women’s Basketball under Coach Don Flanagan
Doctor of Dental Surgery, Baylor College of Dentistry
- Valedictorian both clinically and academically
Advanced training in orthodontics
Awarded for exemplary orthodontics: Albuquerque Top Dentist-Orthodontics
Meet The Team
My favorite thing about dentistry is the opportunity to connect and build relationships with patients and help them with their insurance needs. I love being part of a team that cares about the growth and success of each other, as well as the overall wellbeing of our patients. Away from the office, I enjoy cooking and baking with my husband and two kids, being outdoors and traveling to visit family in Texas.
Rachel Ketcherside
Front Reception / Insurance Coordinator
What I like about dentistry is being able to help people feel more confident in their smile. Our office gets along great and it it shows by our exceptional customer service. Away from the office, I love to spend time with family, rollerblade, and swim laps.
Louise Vallejos
Hygiene Coordinator
I enjoy dentistry because it is a caring profession, where people can feel good about themselves after a kind and respectful visit. I love building close relationships with my coworkers and working as a team to help patients with their dental concerns and smiles. Away from work, I enjoy cooking for my family, watching a good movie and cross stitching.
Julia Perea
Sterilization Specialist
I am passionate about healthcare and health education, and enjoy building relationships with my patients. Our office works together to ensure patients feel safe and have a good understanding about their oral health. Outside of work, I love spending quality time with my husband, our two dachshunds, friends and family.
Brianna Chavez
Lead Dental Hygienist
I love building relationships and leaving patients with a positive outlook on their oral and overall health. My favorite thing about our office is the warm and welcoming environment, and my colleagues who are always willing to offer a helping hand. When I’m away from the office, I spend my time with family and friends, the outdoors, watching movies, crafting, and doing reformer Pilates.
Celina McCabe
Dental Hygienist
I am fascinated by dentistry and the advances in the field that help improve overall health and building confidence in one's smile. Our office strives to provide an enjoyable, relaxing, and stress-free environment that focuses on patient's needs. Away from the office, I like to go hiking and be out in nature, gardening, and spending time with loved ones.
Grace Holly
Dental Hygienist
My favorite part of dentistry is being a part of a team that strives to restore the patient’s confidence in their smile. I love this office because everyone is so wonderful and caring, and there is always laughter around. Outside of work, I enjoy working in the wedding industry, arranging florals and wedding planning, traveling to new places, rock climbing and trying a new workout class!
Danielle Caswell
Dental Hygienist
I love that dentistry is always changing and finding better ways to serve others in a quick and painless way. I love working as a team to ensure our patients receive the best care. Outside of work, I love spending time with my family, going to church, hiking, crafting.
Crystal Tapia
Lead Dental Assistant
My favorite part of dentistry is the attention to detail from all the Doctors, learning from them daily, and working with our state-of-the-art equipment. My favorite thing about the office is the welcoming atmosphere and the teamwork from each staff member. I enjoy spending time with my family, playing board games, watching movies, and spending time with our dog Chico.
Maria Quintana Chavez
Dental Assistant
This is stress-free dentistry
We prioritize your emotional well-being and believe a stunning smile shouldn’t come at the cost of your peace of mind. Our private and tranquil treatment rooms, gentle and compassionate dentists, and a range of sedation options allow you to experience complete relaxation during your visit.
Experience 5-Star Care
— Jay G.
— Georges H.
— William V.
— Jane J.
— Nasreen A.
— Mike W.
— Theresa C.
— Arie D.
— Ruth B.
— Shane B.
— Christopher R.
— Monique M.
Get Comfortable
ENJOY YOUR VISIT WITH US!
Sweaty palms? Feeling flustered? At our office, a beautiful smile doesn’t come at the expense of your emotional health. We offer quiet and private treatment rooms, dentists with the gentlest approach in town, and a variety of sedation options.
Enjoy pure and total relaxation as you arrive for your appointment.
