Our Staff
Dr. Roberto Espinoza, DDS
Born and raised in New Mexico, at a young age Dr. Espinoza knew he wanted to be a dentist. The path was not always straight and clear but with encouragement from his family, friends and church he had faith he would achieve his goal. He started to develop a hard work ethic while attending Las Cruces High School and working at Memorial Medical Center as a Sanitation Aid. After graduating from high school and completing a certificate as a Certified Nursing Assistance, he worked at Las Cruces Nursing Center and attended NMSU School of Business and College of Arts and Sciences to complete pre-dental requirements.
Upon completing his Bachelors in Business Administration and all pre-dental requirements, he was accepted into Loma Linda University School of Dentistry. There he served as class president all four years and was a part of the Dean's List for academic achievements. In his senior year he was nominated and won several leadership awards including recognition by the California Dental Association for research and the Prince Award, which the school deems one of the most prestigious awards given. Wanting to continue to learn more about dentistry and advanced procedures, Dr. Espinoza was accepted into the University of New Mexico Advanced General Dentistry program. He studied an extra year of day-to-day dental procedures in a clinic and hospital setting, as well as LV. sedation, dental implants, endodontic, fixed and removal prosthodontics, advanced pediatric cases, periodontal surgeries, impacted wisdom teeth removal, emergency dentistry and preventative dentistry. It was an intense year but working with specialists in each of those areas has helped mold him into a better dentist that wants to continue to grow and learn.
After having several job offers around the U.S., Dr. Espinoza decided to take the job at Urgent Dental Care Sonoma and proudly serve his community that helped him in achieving his own goal.
Upon completing his Bachelors in Business Administration and all pre-dental requirements, he was accepted into Loma Linda University School of Dentistry. There he served as class president all four years and was a part of the Dean's List for academic achievements. In his senior year he was nominated and won several leadership awards including recognition by the California Dental Association for research and the Prince Award, which the school deems one of the most prestigious awards given. Wanting to continue to learn more about dentistry and advanced procedures, Dr. Espinoza was accepted into the University of New Mexico Advanced General Dentistry program. He studied an extra year of day-to-day dental procedures in a clinic and hospital setting, as well as LV. sedation, dental implants, endodontic, fixed and removal prosthodontics, advanced pediatric cases, periodontal surgeries, impacted wisdom teeth removal, emergency dentistry and preventative dentistry. It was an intense year but working with specialists in each of those areas has helped mold him into a better dentist that wants to continue to grow and learn.
After having several job offers around the U.S., Dr. Espinoza decided to take the job at Urgent Dental Care Sonoma and proudly serve his community that helped him in achieving his own goal.
Victoria Abalos, Office Manager
"Long after working with the public schools I pulled a wild card and entered into the world of dentistry! Starting as a receptionist, insurance specialist, assistant manager and now manager I can honestly say how much I've enjoyed dentistry.
It's so rewarding to help our patients from start to finish and fulfill their dental goals.
When I am not at the office my daughters, books and the gym are my happy places."
Robin Day, Dental Assistant
After 30 years of doing the same thing, it's still never humdrum. Connecting with every individual warms Robin's heart. Taking care of dental needs for people was the right career choice for Robin.
She jokes about spare time activities by stating "what spare time?" She loves to read and binge watch Netflix series.
Amerika Ramirez
My interest in the dental field started when I was in high school, i attended Silva Health Magnet in El Paso, Texas. I enjoy helping patients get their confidence back with brand new smiles.
On my free time, I enjoy camping, hiking, and spending time with my family and our two fur babies."
Lauren Quattlebaum, Dental Hygienst
Cynthia Upchurch, Front Desk
“I have many years of experience in the dental industry. I have worked in the front office as well as assisting the doctors during treatments and procedures. I enjoy assisting with our patients needs and want to make sure all their concerns are resolved.”
When Cynthia is not working, she loves hanging out with her family and going down to the Rio Grande to a have a blast.
Adam Suarez, Insurance Specialist
"My name is Adam and I am an insurance specialist here at Desert Peaks Dental. Though I haven't been in the dental field for too long, I have come to love working at a dental office. Specifically here, working for such an awesome doctor like Dr. Espinoza and all of my amazing coworkers. I take pride in my over 15 years of customer service experience, and a lot of that pride comes from my four and half years serving my country in the United States Army. my passion is making people smile, whether that's my coworkers or my patients. My partner and I enjoy life together with our four beautiful dogs and our two cuddly cats. They keep us on our toes constantly, but I love all of my babies. I personally enjoy my video games and I am very passionate about my fitted hat collection."
Gabriella Della-Ratta, Dental Hygienist
"Born and raised in Las Cruces, NM, graduated from Mayfield High School and El Paso Community College Dental Hygiene Program in 2006. I also worked as a CNA and caregiver for several years while completing my Dental Hygiene Program.
I enjoy watching my daughter and son play soccer and taking care of my chickens, goats, and dogs. I like to go camping and travel.
I've enjoyed getting to know my patients and helping them keep healthy smiles.
Julie Bustillos, Front Desk
"I enjoy making our patients feel comfortable and confident in our practice and seeing them leave with a beautiful smile!
When I am not in the office I am spending time with my family and love watching my son play sports."