Hillcrest Dentists

Meet the Doctors

Dr. Preston KaenelDr. Preston Kaenel

(Voted Top Dentist since 2007)
Award winning dentist“Hi, I am Dr. Preston.  Together with my wife Dr. Val, we established Padre Dental in 2001.  I see myself as a very conscientious, hardworking individual. I like being able to take the time with each patient and finding out what are the individual needs of each person.  The best part about dentistry for me is all the great new technology.  I am always researching and taking courses to find out what is best for the office and our patients.  Patient safety and comfort is my upmost concern.  I love being able to provide treatment with lasers, digital cameras and xrays and one visit crowns with CEREC®.  When you are in the office, feel free to ask me about any of our technology that we have to offer.  I really enjoy talking with my patients.

I am not a native of San Diego, but moved here in 1989 to attend UCSD where I met my wife Dr. Val.  I went on to graduate from USC School of Dentistry in 1997 with my Doctorate of Dental Surgery. By finishing in the top 5 of my class, I received OKU Omicron Kappa Upsilon honors.  I am a member of the American Dental Society, California Dental Society and the San Diego Dental Society.  When I am not at the office, you can probably find me with my two daughters.  I also enjoy playing soccer, running, water skiing on my boat and probably most importantly, racing my 1959 Triumph.”


 

Dr. Valerie KaenelDr. Valerie Kaenel

“Hi, my name is Dr. Val. My husband and I own Padre Dental. We started out small in 2001 and have grown ever since with the support of our terrific staff and patients referring in their friends and family. I really enjoy the warm, caring environment we have created here in our office. From the moment you call the office for your first appointment until you are on your way back home, we really strive to make your experience as comfortable and stress free as possible. Our motto is to treat all our patients as family and that includes our staff too! I enjoy the family aspect of our practice working closely together as a team. Patients quickly realize that Padre Dental is a safe and comfortable environment for the whole family. I got my bachelor’s degree from UCSD in biology and my Doctorate of Dental Surgery from USC in 1997. I graduated in the top 5 of my class earning a place in OKU Omicron Kappa Upsilon, a dental honor society. I have a passion for dentistry and am always trying to improve my skills by devoting time to continuing education. This allows us to integrate the latest technology into our practice. I am a member of the American Dental Society, California Dental Society and the San Diego Dental Society. When I am not at the office, I enjoy playing soccer, running, working out at the gym and skiing. I spend most of my spare time with my two daughters and taking them to all their numerous activities!!”


Meet the Staff

Kelly Kane, Dental HygieneKelly Kane, RDH

 “Hi, my name is Kelly and I am a dental hygienist for Padre Dental.  I started working with Dr. Preston and Dr. Val in 2007.  It is a personal goal to not only educate every patient on dental hygiene but to create an understanding and appreciation for the role you play in your own oral health. I do this by creating a safe and comfortable environment for you to ask questions and share fears or concerns. I enjoy attending continuing education courses to stay up to date and enjoy researching new products. Helping patients maintain a healthy smile is my number one priority.  My other number one priority outside the office is my son AJ.”

 


 

Emilar, Dental HygieneEmilar Rasmuzzen, RDH

“Hi, I am Emi and I am a dental hygienist for Padre Dental. I first came to Padre Dental in 2004. You might see me for your dental cleanings and maintenance. I work with Dr. Preston and Dr. Valerie to make sure your mouth and gums are as healthy as possible. I am enthusiastic about educating you on your dental hygiene needs and becoming a partner in your overall dental health. In my spare time, I enjoy kickboxing, dancing and spending time with my family. I moved to San Diego ten years ago from Huanuco, Peru where I was born.”

 

 


 

Stephanie, Dental OfficeStephanie Ogilvie

“Hi, my name is Stephanie and I am the billing coordinator at Padre Dental.  You won’t ever see me, but you may talk to me via the phone or email.  My job is to process insurance claims, send statements and work with the insurance companies.  I’ve been with Padre Dental since 2004 and love my job! Please feel free to email me with any billing questions at pdgbilling@sbcglobal.net, I would be happy to answer them for you. For fun, I enjoy cake decorating. But, most importantly, I love being a mom to my son Tallon.”



 

Myriam Valdez, Dental Office AssistantMyriam Valdez, RDAEF  

“Hi, I’m Myriam and my job at Padre Dental is the lead assistant in the back office.  When you come to your visit with us, I will seat you in your room and make sure you are comfortable.  My job is to assist the doctors in whatever procedures you are receiving that day.  That means I might be taking xrays or taking impressions or perhaps designing a cerec crown!    I’ve been with Padre Dental since 2001.  My favorite part of the job is when a new patient comes into the office fearful, but then leaves smiling and happy.  I completed my studies to become a Registered Dental Assistant with Extended Functions at UCLA.  Not many assistants ever achieve that level of certification.  I love spending time with my family and friends. I am married with three boys who keep me very busy!”



 

April Newton, Dental OfficeBobbii Kincaid

“Hi, I am Bobbii and I am the front desk coordinator here at Padre Dental. I am the person who you talk to on the phone and when you first walk into the office. I help you with scheduling your appointments and going over your treatment plans. I also help you with any questions you may have regarding your insurance coverage. I enjoy working with patients and helping them feel comfortable in the office and making sure they understand their treatment and financial options. I look forward to talking to you on the phone and meeting you personally! I’ve been in dentistry for 38 years (general dentistry, oral surgery and front office). If you have any questions, please ask. I am here to help you.

 

 



Idalcia Bergara - Dental AssistantIdalcia Bergara, DA

 “Hi my name is Idalcia.  I work in the back office as a dental assistant. When you come to Padre Dental, I am the one who will greet you with a smile as I take you back to your treatment room.  I love to make sure your visit is comfortable and as stress free as possible.  That means I may offer you a blanket, ipod and safety shades!  I will assist the doctors through out your procedure.  If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to talk to me!”