At Cruz Orthodontics in Chula Vista, exceptional patient care starts long before you sit in the treatment chair. Behind every beautiful smile transformation is a dedicated team of professionals working tirelessly to ensure your orthodontic journey is smooth, comfortable, and rewarding. Today, we’re pulling back the curtain to introduce you to Shirley, our experienced financial coordinator, whose three decades in dentistry and genuine passion for patient care exemplify what makes our practice truly special.
In our recent video interview, Shirley shares her inspiring journey from dental assistant to financial coordinator, revealing the dedication and expertise that drives our team’s commitment to excellence. Her insights offer a unique perspective on what it takes to create the exceptional patient experience that sets Cruz Orthodontics apart in the San Diego area.
A Journey Rooted in Patient Care
Shirley’s path to Cruz Orthodontics began in 1994 when she first entered the dental field as a registered dental assistant (RDA). Over nearly 30 years, she has worked across various dental specialties, including oral surgery and periodontics, accumulating 16 years of experience in one specialty practice alone before joining our team.
“I always wanted to be a doctor when I was growing up. When a friend suggested I consider the dental field and let me shadow in her office, I just loved it. I mean, I love patients and all that stuff.”
This genuine care for patients has been the driving force throughout her career and continues to shine through in her role at Cruz Orthodontics.
The Daily Dedication Behind Your Smile
Morning Huddles and Strategic Planning
Each day at Cruz Orthodontics begins with purposeful preparation. Shirley describes how the team starts with morning huddles to discuss the day’s agenda, review patient cases, and coordinate any special needs for specific treatments. This collaborative approach ensures that every team member is aligned and ready to provide exceptional care.
Behind-the-Scenes Financial Coordination
As our financial coordinator, Shirley handles the crucial but often invisible work that keeps everything running smoothly.
“Usually I am checking on insurances, following up on claims, things like that. I’m in the background… making sure everything happens smooth and working.”
This attention to detail in insurance processing and financial coordination means patients can focus on their treatment while we handle the complexities of insurance coverage and payment processing.
What Makes Cruz Orthodontics Different
The Joy of Transformation
When asked about her favorite part of the job, Shirley’s enthusiasm is unmistakable:
“The part that I enjoy the most is at the end, when the patients get their braces off. Seeing the transformation, some people come in and just see the way their smile has changed. It’s really rewarding.”
This emotional connection to patient outcomes reflects a key difference between orthodontics and other dental specialties. As Shirley notes, “I’ve worked in a lot of specialties… most people didn’t want to be there. But being in the ortho field, everybody’s happy to be here.”
Exceptional Quality and Patient Care
What truly sets Cruz Orthodontics apart, according to Shirley, is Dr. Cruz’s exceptional approach to treatment:
“Doctor Cruz’s quality of work. His outcome of his cases are just amazing, really amazing. And I feel like we treat all our patients top notch… We want to make them feel very important.”
This commitment to excellence extends beyond clinical outcomes to the entire patient experience. Shirley explains how the team ensures patients understand their treatment and feel valued throughout their journey.
A Team That Works in Harmony
The success of any orthodontic practice depends on seamless teamwork, and Cruz Orthodontics excels in this area.
“Everybody just works so well as a team here. The communication, of course, is key. And I think everybody communicates with each other really well.”
This collaborative culture extends beyond work hours, with team bonding activities that strengthen relationships and improve patient care. The result is a cohesive team where “everybody does have a lot of experience and we are everybody does work hard. But then we also, you know, joke around and talk and still have a good time.”
Advice for Nervous Patients
For patients feeling anxious about their first visit, Shirley offers reassuring words:
“We just let them know how awesome Doctor Cruz is… You’re going to love him. And he is great with the patients and great at explaining everything. And he’ll take his time with you and make you feel like he’s rushing you out or anything like that.”
The practice even offers pre-consultation visits where potential patients can meet the team and tour the office to feel more comfortable before their official appointment.
Experience the Cruz Orthodontics Difference
Shirley’s insights reveal the depth of care, experience, and dedication that defines Cruz Orthodontics. From morning huddles to the final day when braces come off, every aspect of your orthodontic journey is supported by a team that genuinely cares about your experience and outcome.
Watch our complete interview with Shirley on YouTube to gain even deeper insights into what makes our Chula Vista orthodontic practice special. Her candid discussion about her journey and our team’s commitment to excellence offers valuable perspective for anyone considering orthodontic treatment.