Doctors & Staff

(Voted Top Dentist since 2007)
“Hi, I am Dr. Preston.  Together with my wife Dr. Val, we established Padre Dental in 2001.  I see myself as a very conscientious, hardworking individual. I like being able to take the time with each patient and finding out what are the individual needs of each person.  The best part about dentistry for me is all the great new technology.  I am always researching and taking courses to find out what is best for the office and our patients.  Patient safety and comfort is my upmost concern.  I love being able to provide treatment with lasers, digital cameras and xrays and one visit crowns with CEREC®.  When you are in the office, feel free to ask me about any of our technology that we have to offer.  I really enjoy talking with my patients.

I am not a native of San Diego, but moved here in 1989 to attend UCSD where I met my wife Dr. Val.  I went on to graduate from USC School of Dentistry in 1997 with my Doctorate of Dental Surgery. By finishing in the top 5 of my class, I received OKU Omicron Kappa Upsilon honors.  I am a member of the American Dental Society, California Dental Society and the San Diego Dental Society.  When I am not at the office, you can probably find me with my two daughters.  I also enjoy playing soccer, running, water skiing on my boat and probably most importantly, racing my 1959 Triumph.”

“Hi, my name is Dr. Val. My husband and I own Padre Dental. We started out small in 2001 and have grown ever since with the support of our terrific staff and patients referring in their friends and family. I really enjoy the warm, caring environment we have created here in our office. From the moment you call the office for your first appointment until you are on your way back home, we really strive to make your experience as comfortable and stress free as possible. Our motto is to treat all our patients as family and that includes our staff too! I enjoy the family aspect of our practice working closely together as a team. Patients quickly realize that Padre Dental is a safe and comfortable environment for the whole family. I got my bachelor’s degree from UCSD in biology and my Doctorate of Dental Surgery from USC in 1997. I graduated in the top 5 of my class earning a place in OKU Omicron Kappa Upsilon, a dental honor society. I have a passion for dentistry and am always trying to improve my skills by devoting time to continuing education. This allows us to integrate the latest technology into our practice. I am a member of the American Dental Society, California Dental Society and the San Diego Dental Society. When I am not at the office, I enjoy playing soccer, running, working out at the gym and skiing. I spend most of my spare time with my two daughters and taking them to all their numerous activities!!”

I am Dr. Bhansali. Dentistry has been a part of my life from a very young age. Growing up in India, I was fortunate to be the child of two dentists who opened their first practice next to our home when I was a toddler. Inspired by their work, I pursued my own dental education at Ahmedabad Dental College before moving to California to complete my studies at UCLA School of Dentistry where I developed a strong interest in restorative dentistry.

I’ve been practicing as a general dentist in Southern California for over eleven years, focusing on helping patients maintain optimal oral health. I am a certified Invisalign provider and particularly enjoy helping patients achieve the smiles they’ve always wanted through clear aligner therapy. As an active member of the American Dental Association, California Dental Association, and San Diego Dental Society, I continually seek opportunities to expand my knowledge and stay current with the latest advancements in dentistry.

Outside of dentistry, I enjoy exploring downtown San Diego, trying new restaurants with my husband, reading, and planning our next trip abroad.

“Hi, my name is Kelly and I am a dental hygienist for Padre Dental.  I started working with Dr. Preston and Dr. Val in 2007.  It is a personal goal to not only educate every patient on dental hygiene but to create an understanding and appreciation for the role you play in your own oral health. I do this by creating a safe and comfortable environment for you to ask questions and share fears or concerns. I enjoy attending continuing education courses to stay up to date and enjoy researching new products. Helping patients maintain a healthy smile is my number one priority.  My other number one priority outside the office is my son AJ.”

“Hi, my name is Jennifer and I am a registered dental hygienist for Padre Dental Group. I was born and raised in San Diego, and I worked as a registered dental assistant for 15 years before becoming a hygienist. I started working for Drs. Preston and Valerie Kaenel in 2013 and work towards providing all of our patients with the best possible care. I strive to stay up-to-date on the newest products and treatments for dental hygiene care and I look forward to sharing my education with you. I will be happy to answer any questions that you might have, so please feel free to ask. In addition to my passion for dentistry, I enjoy spending time at the beach and playing around in San Diego with my family and friends, but most of all I love spending time with my two girls, who are my pride and joy.”

Born and raised in Ohio, I left my home state to serve in the Marine Corps for 4 years. After my service, I pursued a career in Dental Hygiene, graduating from Southwestern Community College in Southern California as President of my class. I’m passionate about providing excellent care to my patients, and when I’m not making smiles brighter, I enjoy spending time with my two amazing dogs!

“Hi, I’m Myriam and my job at Padre Dental is the lead assistant in the back office.  When you come to your visit with us, I will seat you in your room and make sure you are comfortable.  My job is to assist the doctors in whatever procedures you are receiving that day.  That means I might be taking xrays or taking impressions or perhaps designing a cerec crown!    I’ve been with Padre Dental since 2001.  My favorite part of the job is when a new patient comes into the office fearful, but then leaves smiling and happy.  I completed my studies to become a Registered Dental Assistant with Extended Functions at UCLA.  Not many assistants ever achieve that level of certification.  I love spending time with my family and friends. I am married with three boys who keep me very busy!”

Hello
My name is Anali A. Sanchez I graduated Dental Assisting from Grossmont Occupation Center and became an RDA in 2014, my job at Padre Dental is back office Assistant, I assist the Dr's in treatment, I may also be the one that will be taking any impressions, teeth whitening, scan your tooth for a new crown, take any x-rays needed, and help out our lovely Hygienest.
I keep my self up to date with continuing education for the well being of myself and our Patients. I enjoy seeing patient's leaving our office with a big SMILE on their face after their procedure is completed.
In my free time I love to spend time with my family, go for walks and do volunteer work at my son's school.

“Hi, my name is Stephanie and I am the billing coordinator at Padre Dental.  You won’t ever see me, but you may talk to me via the phone or email.  My job is to process insurance claims, send statements and work with the insurance companies.  I’ve been with Padre Dental since 2004 and love my job! Please feel free to email me with any billing questions at pdgbilling@sbcglobal.net, I would be happy to answer them for you. For fun, I enjoy cake decorating, sewing and watching baseball. But, most importantly, I love being a mom to my sons Tallon and Trevor.”