Matthew Wetzel, DDS
Dr. Wetzel received his Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree from the University of Southern California School of Dentistry and completed his residency in periodontics at the Veterans Administration Medical Center in West Los Angeles. Committed to furthering his education, he is a member of the American Dental Association, California Dental Association, American Academy of Periodontology, California Society of Periodontist, and the Academy of Osseointegration.
Abbas Doctor, DDS, MS
Abbas Doctor was born in Huntington, WV. He completed a Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Science at Marshall University and decided to follow in his father’s footsteps and pursue a career in dentistry. He was accepted to the WVU School of Dentistry, and obtained his Doctorate in Dental Surgery. After dental school, he completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry program at the UMKC School of Dentistry. While completing the Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency, he decided to specialize in periodontics. He then moved to Houston, Texas to attend The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, School of Dentistry where he completed his Periodontics residency and obtained his Master of Science in Dentistry.
When not practicing dentistry, he enjoys spending time with friends and family.
Merie Gazelem Cabello
Practice Manager
Merie has over 20 years of experience in the dental field, starting as a Dental Assistant and progressing to Operations Manager. She proudly serves in the U.S. Air Force Reserves.
With a diverse educational background, Merie holds Associate Science degrees in Criminal Justice and Dental Assisting from Silicon Valley College and Heald College. She completed her Bachelor’s and Master Science degrees in Business Analytics at American Military University. Her genuine passion for helping, inspiring, and leading organizations toward success enables her to contribute effectively in both military and civilian settings.
Originally from Fremont, CA, Merie moved to Monterey County in 2017. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys traveling, discovering new restaurants, and experimenting with cooking new recipes. She also loves spending time outdoors, embracing every opportunity for adventure.
Kirsten Quebec
Administrative Assistant
Kirsten is very passionate about fostering positive relationships in a supportive environment, whether it’s with patients or team members. She thrives on organization and efficiency, ensuring smooth operations while maintaining compliance with health regulations.
Her background in coordinating clinic functions and providing administrative support has honed her skills in managing schedules, patient interactions, and documentation. Beyond her professional interests, she cherishes spending time with her family and dogs, which reflects her commitment to creating a welcoming and friendly atmosphere in any role!
She’s excited about the opportunity to contribute her skills and enthusiasm as a dental administrative assistant.
Maggie Guzman
Registered Dental Hygienist
Maggie has been a dental hygienist for 25 years, the last 3 of which have been in a periodontal office. Maggie continued her education and holds a BS in health science.
She enjoys spending time with her husband, two daughters, and grandson. You will often find Maggie fitness-training at the local gym and don’t forget to wave when you see her on the freeway riding a Harley with her husband.
Lorena Gonzalez
Registered Dental Hygienist
Lorena obtained her dental hygiene degree in 2018 from San Joaquin Valley College, and she also holds a Bachelors of Science Degree in Dental Hygiene (BSDH). Having a passion for continual growth as a hygienist, Lorena furthered her education at University of the Pacific and became a Registered Dental Hygienist in Alternative Practice (RDHAP). Lorena is part of a small group of elite hygienists that can independently practice in the state of California. She prides herself in the uniquely tailored experience that she can give to her patients. Lorena loves helping her patients achieve their oral health care goals and building close relationships with patients.
When not at work, Lorena enjoys spending time with family and her English Bulldog Enzo, cooking, hiking, playing sports, and traveling to her next desired destination!
Yesenia Gutierrez
Registered Dental Assistant & Treatment Coordinator
Yesenia Gutierrez has been with our practice since 2017. As an RDA, Yesenia started working in this office directly with patient care; she has since expanded her roles and now you might see her smiling face greet you at our front desk, help you with your insurance billing, or next to your chair assisting the doctor. Yesenia excels at making sure that all patients are comfortable with their entire visit, including our Spanish-speaking patients.
Yesenia was born and raised in Salinas, CA. She loves spending time with her family and friends, hanging out, watching horror movies, trying new foods, and hiking.
Cheryl Still
Registered Dental Assistant
Cheryl has been a registered dental assistant for the last five years. She is passionate about the work she does and is dedicated to our office and our patients.
In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, painting, cooking, and hiking with her dogs.
Gloria Pena
Registered Dental Assistant
Gloria has over 10 years of experience in the dental field, with a strong focus on periodontics after spending a year in general practice. She earned her Dental Assisting Certificate in Santa Cruz County and grew up in Watsonville. Having also lived in Texas, she now enjoys being part of the Monterey County community.
In her personal life, Gloria loves to travel with her family, which includes her husband, two daughters, a son, and their three dogs. As a dedicated sports mom, she enjoys cheering for her kids as they achieve big wins in soccer and volleyball.
Andrea Perez
Dental Assistant
Andrea joined our practice in 2021, but has been in the dental field for over 15 years. She has experience working at the front desk, assisting patients with scheduling and insurance and in the back office assisting the doctor.
In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, outings with her mom and two daughters, baking and gardening.