Are you looking to improve your smile? At Marcel Method, your smile is our top priority! Dr. Thomas Marcel and Dr. Ricky Vargas are committed to creating an exceptional patient experience for you, ensuring that you enjoy visits to the orthodontist. At Marcel Method, we strive to develop personalized treatment plans that address all of your orthodontic needs.

We understand how important a straight, beautiful smile is, which is why we offer todays most popular services, such as metal and clear braces for children and adults, Invisalign clear aligners, SureSmile orthodontic technology, and i-CAT 3D imaging.

Marcel Method is committed to helping you make decisions that lead to the best investment in your smile and oral health! We are proud to serve patients from Livermore, Pleasanton, Tracy, Sunol, Dublin, Mountain House, Manteca, Lathrop, and beyond, and we are looking forward to adding you to our orthodontic family!

Dr. Thomas J. Marcel, DDS received his Doctorate Degree in Dentistry and Orthodontic specialty training at the University of California, San Francisco. Shortly thereafter, in 1991, he began his practice in Livermore, California. Contributing to the field of dentistry, he lectures for dental and orthodontic organizations throughout the United States and abroad, as well as maintains teaching affiliations at the University of California San Francisco, University of Pacific, and the University of North Carolina. He has also published several articles on temporomandibular joint function and mandibular movement. His many years of experience, contribution to the field, and wide range of educational achievements have made him an authority in orthodontics. Dr. Marcel is a huge San Jose Sharks fan! He enjoys golfing, biking, cooking, reading and watching movies.

Orthodontics is so much more than just moving teeth; its about getting to know my patients on a personal level. Our goal extends farther than just straightening teeth; our goal is to ensure our patients leave the office happier than when they first walked in.

The best part of this job, however, is the fact that many of our patients have greatly enriched my life and the lives of my team. This profession is full of different personalities, fun, creativity, and inspiration!

I received my undergraduate degree fromSanta Clara University. Both my Doctorate Degree in Dentistry and orthodontic specialty training took place at theUniversity of California, San Francisco. Shortly thereafter, in 1991, I opened my practice in Livermore, California.

To say that continuing education is important to our practice would be an understatement. It is so important to stay current with the science and the latest treatment techniques. Most of my latest education has been in digital orthodontics, improved diagnostics through 3D imaging andSureSmile, and state-of-the-art aligner treatment such asInvisalign and Invisalign Teen. To continue to learn about the subject you are most passionate about is always exciting and motivating.

I was born in Kansas City, Missouri (still a Royals and Chief fan), lived briefly in Michigan (long enough to become a hockey fan), but spent my teenage years in San Jose (hard not to be a 49ers fan in the 80s or a Giants fan in 2010!).

I am a huge sports fan. I love mySan Jose Sharksand attend as many home games as I can. I enjoy biking and golf for exerciseand not riding in the cart! I also like music (jazz, country, rock, Aerosmith, Springsteen, and 80s hair bands!), cooking (Italian and grilling are my specialties), watching movies (Star Wars, the Marvel series, Indiana Jones, Caddyshack, and the Lego Movie are some of my favorites) and reading (spy novels and early American history).

It sounds weird to say, but I also consider my practice as my hobby. It is my art. I tell people it is my mound of clay that I change, constantly trying to make it better and then sharing it with others.

I also enjoy being active in our community outside of the practiceespecially with young people as a Little League baseball and CYO basketball coach. I have been a Rotarian for 25 years, which also allows me to keep up on the needs of our community. It is so rewarding to give back to the schools, churches, and organization in our area.

Dr. Ricky Vargas, DDS attended Holy Names University where he received his Bachelor in Science degree in Biology. After college he was recruited by the New Orleans Jesters and played soccer at a professional level. During his second season, he was accepted into the Doctor of Dental Surgery program at UCSF. It was the beginning of a childhood dream, to become an orthodontist. After completing his Dental program, he continued his advanced education at UCSF earning his Orthodontic Certificate and Masters in Oral and Craniofacial Sciences. Dr. Vargas has recently published an article in Orthodontics and Craniofacial Research. Aside from orthodontics, he loves fishing, playing soccer, being outdoors, and most of allspending time with his family; including his dog, Gus.

Our team is truly committed to enrichment, both professionally and personally. We share a passion for being the very best and this requires constant education and training. We invest in and make continuing education a priority so that our team can stay on the forefront of orthodontics.

Marcie rejoined our team in 2019, bringing over 25 years of experience working in the dental field. She has worked in all facets of dental, including general dentistry, oral surgery, and orthodontics as a chair-side assistant, an administrator, and in management. Marcie thrilled to be back with the Marcel team! In her free time, Marcie enjoys spending time with family and friends.

Jennifer, Clinic Coordinator/RDA/OA, is highly regarded for her exemplary orthodontic skill and compassion for her patients. She became a Registered Dental Assistant in 1991 and has assisted Dr. Marcel in treatment planning, correspondence, digital records, and chairside assisting since 2000. On the weekends youll find Jennifer boating, camping and enjoying the great outdoors.

Angie, Registered Dental Assistant. Angie began her career in 1989 when she became a Registered Dental Assistant and started working in general and pediatric dentistry. She joined our team in 1991, bringing with her bilingual skills that allow her to communicate with our Spanish speaking patients and translate effectively. Angie feels the best part of working in orthodontics is seeing the patient through the completion of their treatment. Angie is a mother of three, has 3 grandchildren and volunteers at her church, in Tracy, using her gift of song to assist the Childrens Choir.

After Caitlyn graduated from Gurnick Academy of Medical Art, she completed her internship at Allcare Family Dentistry, in Tracy. We were delighted to welcome her to the orthodontic field in March of 2020. Caitlyn enjoys the team atmosphere at Marcel Method and the close bonds that are made between team members and our patients. In her free time, Caitlyn enjoys hanging out with her friends and family, watching movies and playing video games.

Christine, Treatment and Marketing Coordinator. With over fifteen years of experience in education and a Bachelors Degree in Child Development, Christine has used her communication and teaching skills to guide patients through the diagnosis process, since 2007. Christine believes in the philosophy of a team approach to marketing and loves working with each team member to promote the services Marcel Method provides to our community. Christine is also a Keirsey Temperament Certified Professional and has spoken at various annual meetings, conferences, and universities, including the American Association of Orthodontics (AAO), the Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontics (PCSO), UCSF, and UW. Christine lives in Livermore, with her husband, John, and is an avid gardener who loves spending her weekends working in her flower gardens and small vineyard.

Janet joined our team in November of 2002 with over seven years of customer service experience with Nordstrom. As a Livermore native, Janet enjoys meeting the children of the kids she grew up with. Her can do attitude is contagious among staff and patients alike. Janet spends much of her free time with her husband, of over 20 years, and their two handsome boys. She enjoys relaxing in the backyard listening to music in her free time.

Joanna manages the financial and background details of the practice which allows our team to focus on the quality care of our patients. Her expertise in business administration assists her in serving both of our doctors in all three locations. Joanna enjoys traveling, exploring the outdoors and wine tasting.

Julie, Scheduling, and Treatment Coordinator/Financial Assistant. Julie is a native of San Diego and received her Bachelors Degree in History from San Francisco State University. Her genuinely warm and friendly personality, as well as many years of experience in orthodontics, has allowed her to provide our patients with an enjoyable scheduling and financial experience, since March of 2006. On the weekends, Julie enjoys spending time with her husband and their two kids.

Kim received her Registered Dental Assistant license in 1981. She has experience in supervising, clinical training, financial, and treatment coordinating which supports her in guiding the smooth flow of office operations. Kim has frequently been invited to speak at the American Association of Orthodontics Annual Conference. She has been an essential member of our team since 1994. Kim enjoys spending time with her two beautiful grand-daughters and traveling with her significant other.

Kylie joined us in 2017 at the start of her career, and has a passion for orthodontics and working with children and teens. She is an assistant in the clinic, as well as in the lab; doing everything from x-rays and photos to impressions and retainers. Kylie spends her weekends with her niece and nephew, and her Boston Terrier, Dixie.

Rob, Laboratory Technician, graduated from Chico State with a Bachelors Degree in Health and Psychology in 2000. He uses his knowledge and creative talent to fabricate custom and unique appliances for our patients. As an avid outdoorsman, Rob enjoys spending his free time, up at his cabin in the mountains, with his significant other and their yellow lab.

Sheri earned her Registered Dental Assistant license at Western Career College in 1987 and began her career in orthodontics in 1989. In 1998, she joined Dr. Marcels team and worked until 2002 when she decided to stay home with her children. In 2014, Sheri returned to us with her sense of humor and uplifting spirit. Sheri has been married since 1989 and enjoys spending time with her son, daughter-in-law, and her golden grand-puppy. Sheri is also very proud of her daughter who is currently at Chico State pursuing her degree in speech and language pathology.

Simona joined our team in June of 2015. She brings with her a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology from the University of California, Santa Barbara, ten years as a preschool teacher and eleven years as a daycare business owner. Her experience with human behavior and children enhances our practice as she strives to accommodate our patients needs and their schedules. Outside the office, you can find Simona cheering on her four children at their sporting events.

Stacey has used her expertise in finance to enhance our administrative team since 2002. Her attention to detail and accuracy supports her in her role of preparing records and corresponding between patients, dental professionals, and specialists. Stacey enjoys watching ice-hockey and is a die-hard San Jose Sharks fan!