Trusted Quality

Our patients deserve the best dental care. We use the highest rated materials and the most effective techniques to ensure that the work we deliver remains comfortable and beautiful for years to come. We stand behind our work and guarantee its longevity for all of our active patients.

Comfortable Environment

A visit to the dental office can be stressful. This is why patient comfort is our top priority. We provide warm blankets, warm towels, and refreshments. Want to watch Netflix or listen to Pandora during your treatment? No problem. For patients who have anxiety, we offer various relaxation and sedation options to put them at ease. We go the extra mile so you can feel safe and happy with your dental visit.

Modern Technology

Our modern equipment, including digital x-rays, intraoral cameras, and 3D scanning and printing, allow us to deliver better accuracy, comfort, and results. No more gooey trays or temporary crowns that break or fall off. You can even keep track of information on our online portal, sign forms on our iPads, and receive text message appointment reminders.

In-House Specialists

Tired of being referred out to other offices for specialty services like dental implants, wisdom teeth extractions, root canal therapy, or orthodontics? We have our own team of highly-skilled specialists who can take care of all your dental needs under one roof. This allows us to provide better comprehensive care and save unnecessary trips to other dental offices.

Patient Conveniences

Everyone is busy and cannot always take time off during the week to receive dental care. This is why we offer late evening and Saturday appointments to accommodate busy family and work schedules. We also have ample parking at a central location that is easy to find.

Patient Education

All patients should make an informed decision regarding their own oral care. We take time to educate our patients with 3D models, animations, and videos, so they understand their treatment options and the current condition of their mouth. Together with patients, we discuss long-term goals and help design a path to achieve the healthy and beautiful smile they have always wanted.

Meet Our Team

Dr. Irving Chao

Dr. Irving Chao was awarded high honors and received his Doctorate of Dental Surgery degree from the University of the Pacific’s School of Dentistry in San Francisco.

He continued to receive postgraduate training at UCLA School of Dentistry in areas of cosmetic dentistry, root canal therapy, implant dentistry and invisalign® orthodontics.

Dr. Chao is committed to giving back to Salinas Valley. He provides free dental care to the Elm Drug Rehabilitation House and is the Director of the Monterey Bay Dental Health Committee, organizing classroom dental presentations throughout the county.

Dr. Chao takes pride in his work and is very patient and gentle. In his spare time, Dr. Chao loves to ballroom dance and hike with his two dogs, Tasha and Louie.

Dr. Ngoc Bui

Dr. Ngoc Bui received her Bachelor of Science degree from UC San Diego and Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, CA.

To further advance her education and skills set, she went on to complete a hospital-based dentistry residency at the VA Medical Center in Palo Alto, CA. During residency, she had the opportunity to serve our veterans with personalized, gentle and the highest standard of care.

Dr. Bui has always been passionate about giving back to her community. She dedicated much of her time serving both locally and abroad by managing a mobile free clinic in San Diego County and volunteering on humanitarian trips in Indonesia, Timor Leste, and Mexico.

In her spare time, she enjoys catching up with friends over yummy foods, hiking new trails, and playing tennis.

Dr. Ashley Goldman

Dr. Ashley Goldman received her Doctorate of Dental Medicine and Master’s in Medical Physiology from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio.

Dr. Goldman prioritizes your comfort and is passionate about helping you overcome your dental anxiety. With an empathetic and patient approach, she strives to create an stress-free and positive dental experience so you can reach your oral health goals.

Outside the office, Dr. Goldman loves to cook, hike, ski and do arts and crafts. She can’t wait to see you at your next visit!

Dr. Carolyn Chang

Dr. Carolyn Chang received her Doctorate of Dental Surgery degree from New York University School of Dentistry with honors in removable prosthodontics.

She completed her residency at the VA Medical Center in Palo Alto, CA, where she was able to further enhance her skills in implant dentistry, oral surgery, and prosthodontics, while being able to provide the best care for our veterans.

Dr. Chang is passionate about delivering the highest quality dental care to her patients and is actively pursuing continuing education. She is currently an active member in multiple dental societies including: Academy of Osseointegration, California Dental Association, and the Santa Clara County Dental Society. Dr. Chang enjoys traveling, spending time with friends and family, and watching cooking shows in hopes that one day she will become a Star Baker.

Dr. Michelle Maciel

Dentistry became a calling for Dr. Michelle during her senior year at Salinas High School when she embarked on a dental course at the local ROP. It was this experience that ignited her passion for dentistry. Driven by a commitment to her lifelong goal of becoming a dentist, Dr. Michelle worked as a registered Dental assistant for 10 years while concurrently attending school to become a dentist. Throughout her journey, Dr. Michelle's aspiration was clear – to return and serve the very community she grew up in.

Her educational journey commenced at Monterey Peninsula College, where she earned her AA in Health Sciences. She pursued further studies at California Polytechnic University, San Luis Obispo, earning her BS. This path eventually led her to the prestigious UCLA Dental School, where she refined her skills and gained a thorough comprehension of the latest dental practices.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Dr. Michelle finds joy in creating lasting memories with her loved ones. In her leisure hours, she adopts an active lifestyle. You can find her enjoying a serene morning yoga session or an energetic cycling class. Dr. Michelle embodies both a skilled dentist and a compassionate individual dedicated to improving oral health and leaving a lasting positive impact on those she serves.

Dr. Aayushma Hamal

Dr. Aayushma Hamal is a dedicated dentist with a diverse background in international education and clinical experience. Born and raised in Nepal, Dr. Hamal developed a deep passion for dentistry early on. She earned her first dental degree from Tribhuvan University in 2019 before moving to the United States, where she gained hands-on experience working as a dental assistant.

Determined to further her education and expand her expertise, Dr. Hamal pursued her second dental degree at the University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry, graduating with honors in 2024.

With a strong foundation in global dental practices, Dr. Hamal is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. She has participated in dental outreach programs in both Nepal and Guatemala, reinforcing her dedication to serving diverse communities.

Outside of dentistry, Dr. Hamal enjoys spending time with family and friends, hiking, and experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen. Dr. Hamal believes in compassionate dentistry, prioritizing patient comfort and trust.

Dr. Sirish Makan - ORAL SURGEON

Dr. Makan was born and raised in Southern California. He matriculated at the University of California, Riverside where he majored in biology.

He then went on to attend the prestigious Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco, CA, obtaining his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. Upon completing his dental degree, Dr. Makan interned in Nashville, Tennessee at the Oral Surgical Institute. After interning in Nashville, Dr. Makan went on to spend 4 years in Washington D.C., completing his residency in oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMS). He currently maintains his privileges at Stanford University.

Dr. Makan is married to his beautiful wife, Rupa, who is completing a surgical fellowship in breast cancer surgery at Stanford University. They enjoy the outdoors, travelling and spending time with their friends and family.

Directions to Salinas Valley Dental Care

"Exceptional service. Evening and weekend appointments. An in-house lab for same-day crowns. Need I say more?"
— Ivan P.

"Salinas Valley Dental Care staff are so caring and professional. I highly recommend this office! My family loves Dr. Chao and all his staff , we’ve been coming for years!"
— Enid D.

"Was in town visiting friends and had a tooth emergency. They got me in same day and took care of me so I could manage until I got back to East Coast. Would recommend the amazing dentists here. "
— Daniel F.

A better experience. A better choice.

Our experienced, friendly, and talented team is committed to working with you and your family to create a comfortable, stress-free, and rewarding experience every time you visit our dental practice. We look forward to working with you.