Meet the Team

At San Diego Orthodontic Specialists, you're cared for by a friendly, highly trained team dedicated to comfortable, on-time visits and outstanding results. Dr. David Li leads a collaborative approach that blends advanced orthodontic technology with attentive, one-on-one support—from your first consultation to the day your new smile is revealed. Coordinators streamline scheduling and treatment planning, while clinical assistants maintain meticulous safety and sterilization standards. Every visit aims to be welcoming, informative, and efficient.

Ready to get started? Contact San Diego Orthodontic Specialists in San Diego at 858-487-8900.

Denise

Treatment Coordinator

Denise became licensed as a registered dental assistant in 1992, and joined our team in 1992. As our treatment coordinator, she works to build strong relationships with our new patients to help them feel confident in starting their orthodontic care with our practice and guiding them through their transformative, life-changing smile journeys.

Denise has three adult children, and enjoys spending time with her family and cooking. She loves trying new recipes and going to Disneyland.

Krysta

Financial & Insurance Coordinator

Krysta joined our team in October 2007. She is diligent in helping our patients understand their insurance and navigate their financial options, keeping communication clear, organized and timely behind the scenes so our team can focus on providing excellent orthodontic care. Krysta enjoys being part of a team that makes the process as stress-free as possible for families so they can focus on their smile journey.

Outside of work, Krysta enjoys spending time with her husband and two children – family time is very important to her and she makes the most of every moment together. In her free time, Krystal also enjoys attending concerts, painting, playing board games and going for walks. She also appreciates a good cup of coffee and spending time with her cat.

Michelle

PR Coordinator & Dental Assistant

Michelle earned her Bachelor of Science degree in biology from California State University of San Marcos. She joined our team in June 2006, and loves being part of a practice where she can build relationships with patients and support them throughout their visits. As our PR coordinator and an assistant, Michelle supports both patient care and the growth of our office, working to create a welcoming and positive experience for everyone who visits us and promoting San Diego Orthodontic Specialists online and within our community as well as assisting with procedures and helping patients be comfortable and informed throughout their treatment. Whether she is coordinating communication or assisting chairside, Michelle enjoys making patients feel welcome, comfortable and confident in their orthodontic care. She always looks forward to interacting with and building relationships with our patients and their families.

Outside the office, Michelle enjoys spending time with her husband and two kids. Family is Michelle's number one priority and she always makes sure to be 100% present with her family. In her free time, Michelle enjoys reading a good book, cooking, and planning fun activities and outings for her family. She will never say no to boba!

Susanna

Front Desk Coordinator

Susanna joined our team in March 2024. She enjoys working with a fun and supportive team to build relationships with patients over the course of their treatment and see their progress. She is dedicated to creating a fun and positive experience for both our patients and our team members.

When not in the office, Susanna enjoys spending quality time with her fiancé and daughter, relaxing at home, cooking and eating with a nice glass of wine, and finding ways to stay active and balanced.

Leslye

Registered Dental Assistant & Invisalign Coordinator

Leslye initially graduated as an electronic engineer in Mexico before coming to the U.S.A. and earning her certification as a registered dental assistant. She joined our team in October 2013, and enjoys interacting with and getting to know her patients to provide them with a more positive experience. She values the relationships she has with her coworkers, and works hard to support each member of our team wherever possible.

Leslye's family is important to her and she makes it a priority to spend as much quality time with them as possible. Nature is her favorite place to be, and she enjoys activities such as hiking, mountain biking and running.

Mary

Dental Assistant

Mary graduated from the American Institute of Dental Assisting in 2019, and joined our team in January 2026. She is a team player and enjoys being surrounding by great teammates, and works hard to build relationships with her patients to earn their trust and provide them excellent care.

Mary's husband currently serves in the Marine Corp, and the rest of her family is in Arizona. Outside the office she enjoys running, practicing make-up and walking with her three dogs.