Our dentist has been providing excellent dentistry in Albuquerque, New Mexico, since 2007. When you bring your family to Ravago Dental, you will see that our team is very personable, taking the time to get to know each of our patients. We are not here to simply sell our services, but rather we work to support your oral needs and cosmetic desires. Some things that set us apart from other dental practices include:
Dr. Melissa Ravago is an Albuquerque native (a graduate of the Albuquerque Academy and the University of New Mexico) returning to her hometown after receiving a DMD from the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston. Recently, she was listed as one of Albuquerque the Magazines 2014 Top General Dentist, a 2015 Albuquerque Journal Readers Choice Award notable, and the winner of the 2016 Albuquerque Journal Readers Choice Award.
After coming home, Dr. Ravago practiced at the University of New Mexicos prestigious Department of Dental Medicine where she learned from some of the top general dentists and specialists in the state. As an Associate Professor at UNM, she trained residents in cutting edge treatments and techniques while also providing direct patient care.
The UNMH affiliation was key because our practice was just so vast, says Dr. Ravago. We learned to treat a full range of patients and cases, from simple and preventative care right up to the most complicated histories you can imagine.
With this experience and knowledge, Dr. Ravago founded Ravago Dental with the goal of providing a full spectrum of state-of-the-art care in a personal, family-oriented setting. What really sets her practice apart, however, are the people. Its absolutely my staff, she emphasizes. I have a fantastic team that loves what they do and is also very caring, which in turn creates a comfortable environment for the patients.
When Dr. Ravago isnt improving Albuquerqueans teeth, she is likely playing softball or volleyball with her husband and friends. Im better at softball, she says, though I worry about my teeth less in volleyball. Dr. Ravago is always eager to see each days roster of patients. I love getting to know my patients and helping them have healthy smiles!
Cathy graduated from Hobbs High School.She received her bachelorette degree in dental hygiene from the University of New Mexico and has worked at our practice since 2009.Cathys upbeat, spunky personality brings a lot of energy to the practice. She and her husband, Randall, have three children. When Cathy isnt working she enjoys skiing, hiking, and camping.
Shanna graduated from Manzano High School. She earned her bachelorette degree in dental hygiene from the University of New Mexico in 1998. Shanna is funny and warm. She provides a thorough cleaning and an empathy for our patients that allows them to feel comfortableShe has two girls who keep her busy with soccer. In her free time she likes to stay active and play volleyball.
I really enjoy being a hygienist because I am always meeting new people and establishing relationships. I also like the chance to contribute to my patients dental health. I love my job because we see new faces and different personalities every day. I also really like our long standing patients, we learn so much from them.
Monica was born in Mexico City and has lived in the United States since she was five years old. She moved to Albuquerque, NM, because her dad needed medical treatment. Monica received her training at the PIMA Medical Institute and has been a dental assistant since 2002. She is also DANB certified and has enjoyed working with Dr. Melissa Ravago since 2010. Monica is also a fluent Spanish speaker. Monica wears many hats at our office and is instrumental in the smooth flow of the office. She is hardworking and knowledgeable. Monica has three kids. She enjoys reading when she isnt helping patients with quality care.
Sandra moved from Nuremberg, Germany to Albuquerque in 1970. She graduated from Del Norte High School. Her passion for dentistry started with her first cleaning. She graduated from PIMA Medical Institute in 1987 and has been in the dental profession since. She joined the Ravago Dental team in August of 2020. She really enjoys working with Dr. Ravago, the awesome staff, and wonderful patients. Sandra is caring and very knowledgeable. If she doesnt already know the answer to your question she will get it figured out. When she is not working she enjoys jogging, hiking, and mountain biking in the beautiful Sandia Mountains.
Estrella (Star) is a native New Mexican. She received her training at PIMA Medical Institute and has been a dental assistant since 2008. She worked with both Monica and Dr. Ravago early in her career and we were excited to be reunited. Estrella is hardworking and great at keeping Doc on schedule! In her free time she keeps busy with 2 young boys.
I love my job as an assistant because I help improve patients quality of life. Knowing that our patients who have a fear of coming to the dentist have the confidence and trust in us to put them at ease. Seeing patients smile and happy when they leave is the best. Its a good feeling to have and it makes me smile with just a simple thank you from them.