Working with so many different people gives me the opportunity to constantly form new relationships and friendships with my patients, their families, and our team members. Its a great feeling to know that each day I can come to work and do something I am truly passionate about!

I am excited about providing orthodontic care for the Corpus Christi and Alice communities. To me, being an orthodontic specialist means providing the highest quality of care to people of all ages, focusing on the aesthetics, function, and health of each individual smile. It is my goal to help each of my patients achieve the beautiful smile theyve always wanted and to help guide them toward improved oral health.

I love being an orthodontist, especially when I am able to see how happy my patients are when their treatment is complete and they see their new, amazing smile for the first time. I cannot help but to celebrate with them, as I know that their lives are going to be healthier and happier as a result of the work weve done together.

I attended St. Marys University in San Antonio for my Bachelor of Science degree, and then studied at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio where I was awarded my Doctorate of Dental Surgery. This was followed by a Masters degree in Oral Biology and Certificate in Orthodontics from Baylor College of Dentistry, and a 27-month orthodontic residency program in Dallas.

Orthodontics is constantly changing; theres always something new being developed and its important to me that I stay current with the latest developments in my field so I can offer my patients the most advanced treatments possible. In addition to attendance at orthodontic and dental conferences throughout the year, I regularly take continuing education courses, attend lectures and seminars, and devour orthodontic and oral healthcare literature.

I was born and raised in Corpus Christi and I feel fortunate to be providing orthodontic care to a community that I know and love. My wife, Amy, is the other Dr. Vela in our practice; we have three wonderful children: our two daughters, Mia and Maddie, and our son, Matthew. When Im away from the practice, youll likely find me spending time with my family. Im also a big sports fan, whether its soccer, football, basketball, or baseball, and I enjoy hunting, fishing, spending time outdoors, and reading, as well.

I feel very blessed to be part of this profession, where we are able to educate people and impact their lives through our work. My goal is to always make each patients visit both a positive and enjoyable experience, and to be able to help people achieve smiles they can truly be proud of, while making sure those smiles deliver a first impression that best represents each persons inner and outer beauty.

Each day, I get to work and interact with fascinating people. Its very rewarding to go through the whole orthodontic process with each of them, and to see the joy and excitement on their face at the end of the journey. Getting to know each patient, as I get to see them regularly over an extended period of time, means I am able to form and maintain relationships that enrich my life. I look forward to seeing each person, catching-up on their latest adventures, or successes in school, hearing about their families and travels. Those exchanges are priceless and make each work day one I eagerly anticipate.

I received my Bachelor of Science degree from Texas A & M University Corpus Christi and then attended the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio where I was awarded my Doctorate of Dental Surgery. Following my graduation, I knew I had a wonderful foundational knowledge of oral healthcare, but I also knew that this is a field for lifelong learners.

Its essential that I constantly learn about technological developments and new, proven treatment options, in order to provide my patients with the best care available. Each year I participate in multiple continuing education opportunities and attend various conferences, meetings, and lectures, in order to broaden my knowledge and hone my skills. My patients deserve the best and that is what I strive to deliver.

Im married to the other Dr. Vela in our practice and have three beautiful children, Mia, Matthew and Maddie. I enjoy spending quality time with my family. We love being at the ranch, going to the beach, and traveling as much as possible. By the way, I was born and raised here in Corpus Christi!

Kori has been in the dental field since 1993. We are glad she joined us in 2013, bringing her wealth of experience and insights to our practice and patients. She loves getting to start our patients on their smile journey.

Erica became part of the Vela Orthodontics team in 2020. She appreciates being part of a team that is always willing to help one another and our patients and families. Its those interactions that keep Erica excited and looking forward to her days at the practice.

When it comes to your care in our office, our dental assistants provide service second to none! They help to place braces, change wires, take any necessary X-rays and photographs, and give instruction on the best ways to take care of your braces or appliance. They love meeting new patients and take the time to make sure your treatment is an easy, comfortable, and all-around positive experience.

Carols extensive experience in dentistry spans 30 years. She works hard to create an upbeat, positive, comfortable environment, where our patients needs always come first. Carol enjoys getting to know our patients, and building lasting friendships with each person she meets.

Marcie started her career in 2005 and joined our practice in 2013. She is happy to be part of a fun team that keeps everyone laughing. Even better, she loves being part of our patients smile transformations.

A newlywed as of January 2022, Molly loves time with her new husband and their families. The couple enjoys taking road trips, exploring, and being outdoors. Molly also loves watching movies and shopping.

Vicky has worked in the dental field since 2015. We are so happy she joined us in 2020, as she makes every day brighter and happier for all of us. She loves transforming and perfecting smiles and getting to know our patients during their time with us.