Why I Love Being an Orthodontist

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. It’s 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 they’ve 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 we’ve done together.

My Education and Commitment to Continuing Education

I attended St. Mary’s 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 Master’s 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; there’s always something new being developed and it’s 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.

Professional Affiliations

American Association of Orthodontists
American Dental Association
Texas Dental Association
Nueces Valley District Dental Society, Board Member
Away from the Office

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 two wonderful children: our daughter, Mia, and our son, Matthew. When I’m away from the practice, you’ll likely find me spending time with my family. I’m also a big sports fan, whether it’s soccer, football, basketball, or baseball, and I enjoy hunting, fishing, spending time outdoors, and reading, as well.

I love my profession and look forward to sharing in your orthodontic experience!

Why I Love My Work

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 patient’s 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 person’s inner and outer beauty.

Each day, I get to work and interact with fascinating people. It’s 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.

My Education and Commitment to Continuing Education

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.

It’s 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.

Professional Affiliations:

American Dental Association
Texas Dental Association

Away from Work

I’m married to the other “Dr. Vela” in our practice; Eric and I have been married for five years, now, and have two beautiful young children, Mia and Matthew. 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!