Meet the Team
We recognize that all of our patients are unique and deserve to receive care that reflects their individual needs. Our experienced and talented surgical team is committed to working with you and your family to create a comfortable, stress-free, and rewarding experience every time you visit our practice. We are pleased to welcome you and your family, and we look forward to working with you.
Front Office
Margarita
Office Manager
I have been a part of Kern Oral & Facial Surgery & Rejuvenating Beauty since 2012, coming from the healthcare field as a medical assistant. In addition to coordinating patients’ treatment plans and billing, I strive to make our office run efficiently while maintaining a comfortable, friendly atmosphere. I absolutely love it here - my home away from home!
My family consists of two children and two dogs. In our free time, we like to spend time cruising in our 1973 Volkswagen Beetle. I love music and enjoy karaoke nights with my family.
Melissa
Patient Relations
I came to Dr. Esla’s office in 2021 after many years working in general medicine and pediatrics. I was ready to try something new, and oral surgery has proven to be very interesting! I can be found in our front office, where I help patients schedule appointments and coordinate with other dental offices for collaborative care.
Outside of work, I love to spend time with my husband and family; we're super excited to welcome our first child in 2024. My husband and I enjoy dedicating some of our time to our local church, serving the community, helping in food bank drives, and fundraising. I also love playing volleyball and having movies nights on days when we get to stay home and relax.
Rachel
Patient Relations
What I enjoy most about the dental field is helping others understand the importance of oral health. I like answering any questions patients may have and ensure that I give them all the information they need to make educated decisions about their care. Exceeding patients’ expectations is truly rewarding at the end of every day.
In my free time, I like to shop and explore new coffee shops and restaurants. I also love spending time with my Shih-Tzu boy, Nobu! I was born and raised in California, but spent the last 14 years living in the PNW. I recently moved back and am excited to continue to explore California and enjoy my time in the sun!
Wendy
Treatment Coordinator
I work with many of our new patients to coordinate the financial aspect of their care, including what we estimate insurance will cover and what their out-of-pocket cost may be. In my 23-year career, I’ve worked in general dentistry and pediatric dentistry, but the past 16 years in oral surgery have been the best!
I’m a mom of four and a grandma of one. I love spending time with my children and grandchild, and I enjoy some “me time” just relaxing when I get a chance!
Surgical Assistants
Our oral surgery assistants play a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of Kern Oral & Facial Surgery & Rejuvenating Beauty and the well-being of patients before, during, and after surgical procedures. Their skills, attention to detail, and compassionate care contribute to a positive patient experience and successful outcomes.
Dhanyra
The best part of working in oral surgery and here in particular is the constant opportunity to learn and grow. I'm exposed to new challenges regularly, which helps me develop both professionally and personally. I also enjoy the collaborative environment here at Kern. Working with a talented and supportive team makes each day a pleasure.
I was raised in Bakersfield as the youngest of five, so I’m definitely a family-oriented person! I enjoy anything that includes outdoor activities, trying new things such as restaurants, and visiting new places when I get the chance.
Drew
My favorite part of my job is meeting all of our wonderful patients and being able to help them with whatever they need. I’ve learned so much from Dr. Esla over the years, and my coworkers are like a second family. I wouldn't want to work with anyone else!
I enjoy spending my free time with my wonderful boyfriend. We like to go camping, fish, be at the beach, or try out new places to eat!
Gwen
I’ve been a Registered Dental Assistant since graduating from San Joaquin Valley College almost 30 years ago. Since joining Dr. Esla in 2010, I’ve completed the CalOMS Surgical Assisting Course. My goal is to help patients feel at ease and comfortable, whether they’re here for a simple extraction or more complicated oral surgical procedures.
I’ve been married to my wonderful husband, Mike, for 33 years. We have two grown children, Garret and Brenna. We love family time together and are very competitive at any game we play!
Maria
As an oral surgery assistant, I have the opportunity to work closely with patients, helping them feel comfortable and at ease during their procedures. I work hard to provide the best care for all our patients.
I’ve been living the Cali life for ten years now, and it’s been an adventure! My husband was in the Army for 18 years and he is now a veteran. We have lived in more states and counties than you can imagine with our two children. I have been a military wife for half of my life and have loved every moment. Now, I focus on spending quality time with my family, traveling when we have time, and watching football!
Aesthetics Team
Alma
CoolSculpting® Specialist / Manager of Aesthetics
I have the privilege of guiding patients through our cosmetic services and working with our nurses to ensure we are creating a comfortable environment for our patients. I strive to build confidence in each patient, while embracing their natural beauty. If I'm not overseeing our cosmetic operations, I spend my time assisting oral surgery patients through their appointments.
Creating a bond with our patients is the real deal! I have the privilege of developing a close relationship and ensuring that I'm creating a comfortable space for our patients. Maintaining a genuine and caring relationship with our patients is truly the most important and rewarding thing to me!
During my time out of work, you'll find me traveling and discovering new restaurants! Any excuse to escape Bakersfield and I'm packing my bags!
Perrie
Registered Nurse
I earned my BSN from California State University - Bakersfield, in 1993. Here in the Rejuvenating Beauty department of Dr. Esla’s office, I perform aesthetic treatments, such as injectables, laser resurfacing, and microneedling, and work with patients to create a routine that will improve the overall condition of their skin. I enjoy the personal relationships I build with our clients and seeing the effects of our services on their confidence.
Outside of work, I like to shop and travel.