Dr. Veronica AvalosAfter undergraduate studies at Santa Clara University, Dr. Avalos acquired her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of the Pacific, School of Dentistry in 2000. She is a former Associate instructor in the department of Restorative Dentistry at the University of the Pacific, where she taught from 2000 to 2004 part-time. Dr. Avalos has been practicing clinical dentistry in South San Francisco, her hometown, since 2000. She is a member of the American Dental Association, California Dental Association, San Mateo County Dental Society and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

Dr. Avalos is devoted to providing excellent comprehensive care to her patients. She takes pride in using the most advanced techniques and materials to create beautiful smiles. She is continually attending advanced education seminars and hands on training courses in general and cosmetic dentistry.

Dr. Janet AndrewsDr. Janet Andrews acquired her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 1983 from the University of the Pacific, School of Dentistry. She also has a Bachelors Degree in Dental Hygiene from Marquette University and a Master’s in Education from the University of the Pacific in Stockton, California. Throughout her career Dr. Andrews had taught at UOP. She currently teaches at the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry in Emergency Services on a part-time basis. She is a member of the American Dental Association, California Dental Association, and the San Mateo County Dental Society. After selling her dental practice in 2000, Dr. Andrews is looking forward to coming back to join Dr. Avalos and her wonderful staff.

Hellene BarillasI started assisting at the age of 16 and got my Registered Dental Assisting license in 2006. I have been working with Dr. Avalos for 8 years now I’ve enjoyed ten years at my career and now I am pursuing my dream to become a Dental Hygienist by going to Foothill College. I’ve been married for 6 years and have two beautiful daughters.

Carina GomezI had no idea when I started as an “after school girl” in 2000 that 8 years later I would still be here now as a Registered Dental Assistant. Dr. Bertani encouraged me to learn dental assisting and started training me. After attending CSM's Dental Assisting Program I earned my Radiology License and soon became a Registered Dental Assistant. Thanks to Dr. Bertani and Dr. Avalos’ patience and training I am the assistant I am today. I enjoy coming to work everyday. Not only do I work for an outstanding dentist, but each and every one of my co-workers have become like family to me.

Susan KurhanewiczWhen I graduated from the College of San Mateo’s Dental Assisting Program in 1983, Dr. Janet Andrews gave me my first job! I worked with her, first as a Registered Dental Assistant, then later as Office Manager when she partnered with Dr. Bruce Belluomini in South San Francisco. I have been fortunate to have worked for not just one, but four wonderful and dedicated dentists here at 1131 Mission Road. I am so proud to have been a part of this wonderful dental practice for the past 25 years! I am looking forward to many more years here with Dr. Veronica Avalos!

Susan McNaughtonI have lived in South San Francisco all my life and graduated from South San Francisco High School in 1977. I then attended Skyline College and College of San Mateo to prepare for entry to the University of California at San Francisco. In 1981, I graduated from UCSF, School of Dentistry with a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene. Upon graduation, I began working part time in a periodontal office on Mission Rd and continued there for 20 years. After working in several general dental offices, I joined Drs Andrews and Belluomini in 1990. The practice was sold to Dr Jeff Bertani in 2000. I became a full time employee for Dr Bertani and continued with the practice when Dr Veronica Avalos bought the practice in 2004. I especially enjoy working in this practice because we provide wonderful care to the local community, many who are my neighbors and friends. I look forward to continuing to serve our patients with dedication and care.

Sandy Lee is a full time dental hygienist at Veronica Avalos' office. She graduated San Joaquin Valley College in June of 2001 and has loved her career in dental hygiene since then. She has a bachelor's degree in Sociology and Social Service from the University of California Hayward. Sandy also has 8 years prior experience as a receptionist and billing assistant for previous dental offices.

Leda GirardiI have been at this office since November, 1998. I am fluent in Spanish and can get by with some Italian. I came to the US in 1981 from Buenos Aires, Argentina; my family was looking for better opportunities. Although I now reside in San Mateo with my adorable son and my wonderful husband, I grew up in South San Francisco and I thoroughly enjoy providing my services to the community that watched me grow up.

My educational background includes Physiology and Italian studies at San Francisco State. Meanwhile, I found my first job in no other place than a periodontal office where I used to do all kinds of odds and ends of jobs. I decided that a career in dentistry was the right field for me, so I transferred to the University of California in San Francisco and got my Bachelors of Science in Dental Hygiene in June, 1997. In December 2006, I further added to my credentials by getting my certification for Dental Hygienist in Alternative Practice from the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry.

I love working with Dr. Avalos because of the freedom that she allows all of her staff to have in order for each one of us to be the best we can be and to be able to provide the best care possible.

Erica PicazoHandles our front office. She's been with our office for 5 years. She can help you with scheduling appointments, treatment planning and with any questions you may have regarding your insurance.She is dedicated to providing you with excellent service to make your visit comfortable and pleasant as possible.