I am enthusiastic about teaching children how to overcome their fears, creating happy smiles and happy patients that will enjoy visiting the dentist for a lifetime. My goal is to make dental visits fun for our patients and their parents from the moment they walk into our office. I am a true believer in prevention and would love to see a world where no child ever has to suffer from dental pain. Practicing pediatric dentistry in San Antonio has allowed me to follow my passion for informing and caring for children.
I am proud to have followed in my brothers footsteps to study and practice dentistry. It was his passion for serving and the gratitude expressed by his patients in our native San Pedro that made me realize that I wanted to do the same and make a difference.
My education began at the Universidad Central del Este, San Pedro de Macoris, where I received my Doctor of Dentistry degree in 2004. From there, I went to New York University to obtain my Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 2009. I received my Certificate in Pediatric Dentistry from St. Christophers Hospital for Children in Philadelphia, PA, in 2011.
I am board certified and am constantly continuing my education. I am dedicated to staying informed of the latest developments in pediatric dentistry, allowing me to offer my patients and their parents the most cutting-edge care and education.
I love living in the San Antonio community with my husband, son, and daughter.We are surrounded by our family, including 12 nieces and nephews, so there is always something fun and exciting happening! When Im not working, I enjoy food, travel, and art.
In my native San Pedro de Macoris, DR, I realized early on that poverty and poor health go hand in hand, and children are the most severely impacted. This is what made me decide to pursue my education in pediatric dentistry and partake in regular outreach programs, not only here in the U.S., but also back in small towns in the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, Peru and Ecuador where I have attended children and patients with special needs.
Providing my little patients with healthy smiles and being able to take part in their growth by educating them and their parents is invaluable to me. There is never a dull moment in pediatrics, as children are so inquisitive, vibrant, and full of life. Nothing makes me happier than being able to appease their fears of dentistry and make their experience a great one. My passion for children and their health is what led me to become a board-certified pediatric dentist in Texas.
I take pride in treating each unique child with a whole health approach and focus on inclusivity, prevention, and conservative treatment options. My goal is to teach patients and their caregivers how to prevent cavities and create an environment where going to the pediatric dentist is a positive experience for everyone in the family.
My passion for dentistry began with positive experiences at my pediatric dentist and orthodontist. The positive experiences I had motivate me to do the same for my patients in the dental office at Kids World Pediatric Dentistry.
After receiving a Bachelor of Science from Louisiana State University, I attended the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, where I received my Doctor of Dental Surgery degree with distinction in dental education and research. After graduating from UT Health with the School of Dentistry Valedictorian Award and American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Predoctoral Student Award, I received my Certificate in Pediatric Dentistry from Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, SC.
Choosing to attend the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio was an easy decision, as I have many family members nearby. Since moving to the area, I have enjoyed the culture and community the San Antonio area has to offer. When Im not practicing dentistry, you may find me spending time with my family, trying new restaurants, exercising, and travelling with my husband, Alex.
We recognize that all of our young patients are unique and deserve to receive dental care that reflects their individual needs. Our experienced and talented dental team is committed to working with you and your family to create a comfortable, stress-free, and rewarding dental experience every time you visit our practice. We are pleased to welcome you and your child, and we look forward to working with you.
Reviews
Rating 4.9 out of 5 based on 697 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestAlessia Benavides
a year ago
I love this place , we have been coming here for a few years now.
Jose Arizpe
a year ago
Best doctor ever! My wife and kids love Dr Marielena
Ana Torres
a year ago
They got us in and out for a cleaning in less then 45 minutes when I informed them we had another commitment after them. They truly work with you, and do their best to earn your business . Thank you Dr Torres and staff.
Javier Menchaca
a year ago
Great doctor and employees. Dr very knowledgeable, honest and conservative which is good these day. Look no farther if you like to have you child enjoy going to the dentist
Mary Rolf
a year ago
I've been taking my boys to Kids World for almost two years now. My older son has autism and comes with challenges, but the staff has been consistently patient, understanding and amazing on our every visit. Because our son is non-verbal, we are proactive about his teeth health and take him every 3 months. Dr. Torres is always so detailed and thorough with him, but gentle, so much so that my son will let her clean his teeth without resistance. We haven't had a bad experience and I highly recommend Kids World Dentistry to all parents and kiddos.
Kristina Strickland
a year ago
My daughter Actually looks forward to her dentist appointments! The staff is always so great and patient, and so nice. Dr. Torres and Dr. Self make sure to answer and questions or concerns you have. Thank you for such a great experience each time!
Diane Garrett
2 years ago
This kids dentist office is so clean, bright, and fun for the kiddos. All of the employees are so friendly! The girl that brought us back, Mrs. Winters was so bubbly and sweet. She got my daughter so excited for her appointment. They get to choose a show to watch at their appointment and get a goody bag and a toy. They explain anything they are planning on doing with your kiddo plus they explain to your child. I even got to meet the office manager, Erica, while waiting for my daughter's x-rays. The dentist, Dr. Self, was so friendly and explained her x-rays and teeth. Such a nice office and great for kids!
Marcela Salinas
2 years ago
My daughter loves this place
Ricardo Rios
2 years ago
I'm extremely unhappy and I haven't even had an appt with them. I'm really picky when it comes to my kids drs I always do my research on my kids drs certifications and education. So when I called to schedule with their office I already knew who I wanted to see! I scheduled with them weeks ago to see dr.Torres next week well today I was told she was going to be out of the office for 2 weeks so we have to see the other dr. Well I said that I'd rather reschedule and see the dr i specifically requested and did my research on that's my preference. Then I was told if I did that they wouldn't be able to schedule all 4 of my kids together and so I ask there no future dates to schedule them all together at all? I was not in a rush I was fine with any date as long as they saw the dr I requested weeks ago to see. She basically wasn't even wanting to try you could tell she was bothered by me telling her I wanted to see that specific dr. If that's my preference I should not be made to feel bad especially if I'm willing to reschedule for a different date to be with her. When I pick a dr for my children I like to build trust in them and don't like seeing multiple drs That shouldn't be an issue. Apparently it is at this practice.
Vi Ta
2 years ago
Edit: Changed my review to 5 star as owner reached out to me to verify that the fee will be refunded and promptly send proof of refund. He not only refunded the cancellation fee but also the record fee that I paid since I was going to find another practice. He confirms that this is absolutely not their way. I very much appreciates the call and will continue to stay with their practice as my son Noah says he loves everyone there. They made a wrong right and that is a treasure!
Jillian Wells
2 years ago
Just wanted to give an extra special shout out to Erica, Dr Self and Vanessa up front! Every time I come in, I am happy with ALL the staff but today I was blown away by Erica's kindness, patience and very happy demeanor with my autistic daughter. What an asset she is! And everyone else just put a smile to my face with how amazing they are. Thanks for caring and thanks for having such an amazing environment. We moved out of Stone Oak and changed everything but our pediatric dentist for this reason.
Lindsey Sorg
2 years ago
Very short wait times, digital check-ins and nice group of people. Appt are done quickly and if there is a slight wait, someone will pop in to let you know. The best part is, kids get to watch TV on the ceiling during their visit.
Lara Wray
2 years ago
Dr. Torres and the whole staff are fantastic!! We have been going there for years and it has always been a great experience.
Matt Martinez
2 years ago
Vanessa and Lupita were literally the best people I've ever met. We're best friends now and they're coming to my wedding!
Ruben Estevez
2 years ago
I recommend this place because it is very clean, you can see that they have an excellent team, they are very honest since they avoid unnecessary treatments, and all the staff is extremely friendly. really a great experience
Aidee Salinas
2 years ago
I have been taking my kids with Dr. Torres since they were babies (6+ years), and she is amazing! She has made the experience so easy for them that they love to go to the dentist! Dr. Torres is fully bilingual (English and Spanish) and also has little kids, which has helped me to ask those questions that I know a mom would understand (because kids don't always want to brush their teeth :D). Her office staff is also really helpful and friendly.
Jesus Garza
2 years ago
Disrespectful and confrontational business manager.----- As a response to the owner's response: I clearly overreacted when one of the staff members started interrupted me and began mimicking me, and for that, I apologize. I'm glad everything is recorded, that will give you an opportunity to improve your customer service. Wish you the best.
Jonathan Gonzalez
2 years ago
Took my three boys for checkup! From front office being so nice to the back office being so patient and informative with our little ones. Along with the Doctors being amazing! We definitely found our pediatric Dental home.
Karen Morales
2 years ago
(Translated by Google) My kids and I love it! It is a peace of mind for me as a mother that my children are very happy to see their dentist! They have excellent service, facilities, staff and doctors!!! 100% recommendable!!! (Original) A mis hijos y a mi nos encanta! Es una tranquilidad para mi como mama que mis hijos vayan muy contentos a ver a su dentista! Tienen excelente servicio, instalaciones, personal y doctores!!! 100% recomendable!!!
Tomas Muniz
2 years ago
Kids World is one of the best pediatric dental practices in San Antonio. The doctors and the staff are top notch. I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for a professional, caring dentist.
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