Staff
Dr. Rick Mars
About Dr. Rick Mars, General Dentist
Dr. Rick Mars has practiced patient-centered dentistry in the Miami area for over 25 years and enjoys the relationship he has built with his family of patients. Dr. Mars always says, “Patients come first in our office, and I never forget one of the first lessons that I learned in dentistry: behind every smile is a person and thus, we treat people and not just mouths.” Most importantly, he not only loves dentistry, but has a great time treating his terrific patients alongside the amazing team at The Dental Care Group. He uses state of the art technology to provide outstanding dentistry in a safe, caring environment. If it is The Wand® to provide the ultimate in comfort when anesthetizing his patients or iTero® scanner that is used in lieu of those mushy impressions, patients know that they are experiencing something special when they are being treated by Dr. Mars.
Dr. Mars attended Emory University for his undergraduate education, continuing on to Georgetown University School of Dentistry for his Doctorate of Dental Surgery. He is an Invisalign® Diamond Provider and has lectured internationally on Invisalign for over a decade. He is honored not just to be on Invisalign’s Global Faculty, but was also named Invisalign’s Faculty Member of the Year. While he practices family dentistry, he places an emphasis on cosmetic dentistry, as seen by the great smiles on his patients. It is not uncommon for a celebrity patient to be seen in Dr. Mars’s chair.
Dr. Mars was voted one of America’s Top Dentists for Invisalign, Cosmetic, and Implant Dentistry by Consumers’ Research Council of America. He is the first South Florida dentist to be chosen as a member of Invisalign’s (Align’s) National and Global Faculties He has presented in hospital settings nationwide on various dental issues over the years and has spoken internationally on multiple occasions. Dr. Mars in an author of many dental articles published both locally and nationally. In 2020, Dr. Mars released his first book, The Big Smile: The Principles of Modern Dentistry for Dentists and Patients.
Dr. Mars has received proclamations from the Governor of Florida, the Mayor and City Council of Aventura, the Mayor of the City of North Miami Beach, and from the Miami Dade County Office of the Mayor and Board of County Commissioners.
Dr. Mars is active with the Aventura Marketing Council Chairman’s Roundtable, Beth Torah congregation (Past-President), Michael Ann Russell Jewish Community Center as a Board Member, and is a Board Member of the Greater Miami Jewish Federation. He has also been a Little League Baseball and Youth Basketball Coach for the last 14 years.
Dr. Mars and his wife, Alison, have been married since 1990. They have three sons, Zachary, Blake, and Cory, of whom they are proud. They also have a mini golden doodle named Charlie. In his free time, Dr. Mars enjoys playing tennis, running, swimming, working out, and traveling.
Professional Memberships:
- American Dental Association
- Florida Dental Association
- South Florida District Dental Association
- Invisalign® Diamond Provider
- Academy of Laser Dentistry (Certified in Laser Dentistry)
- American Academy of Group Dental Practice
Dr. Joel Glicksman
About Dr. Joel Glicksman, General Dentist
Dr. Joel Glicksman is a dentist in Aventura and Pembroke Pines, FL who takes great pride in providing honest professional health care to the community. Dr. Glicksman practices in all disciplines of dentistry including general and restorative dentistry, oral surgery, periodontics, endodontics, prosthodontics and cosmetic dentistry.
Born and raised in Chicago, IL, Dr. Glicksman attended Indiana University. He graduated in 1981 from Chicago’s Loyola University of Dental School where he received his Doctorate of Dental Surgery.
A respected Florida dentist for over 30 years, Dr. Glicksman has extensive experience in all aspects of dentistry including the unique needs associated with aging, recognized as geriatric dentistry. Geriatric dentistry differs from traditional general practice in that this population typically has at least one chronic medical disorder. In addition the physical disabilities and the effects of cognitive dysfunction all affect compliance and oral health. This focus on an individual’s total health and well being and how it affects oral health cannot be undervalued. Being able to treat an individual’s oral health needs while also being sensitive to medically complex needs is part of what drives his dedication to individualized treatment plans.
Dealing with such a diverse patient population, Dr. Glicksman is highly adept at taking medical histories and designing individualized treatment plans that differentiate normal aging from pathological aging. Dr. Glicksman partners with families, care facilities, and health care providers (including physicians, care managers, and social workers) to develop a targeted daily dental care plan that compliments successful treatment.
“Spending so much care on individualizing treatment plans for my patients is one way that I can ensure that they each receive the best treatment. My care for my patients goes beyond their smiles and I have dedicated my life’s work towards putting my patients’ health and happiness foremost in mind”, says Dr. Glicksman.
Professional Affiliations:
- American Dental Association
- South Florida Dental Association
- Florida Dental Association
- Academy of Laser Dentistry
- American Academy of Group Dental Practice
Dr. Glicksman has been a benefactor of Nova Southeastern University School for over ten years and is a member of the Chairman’s Roundtable on the Aventura Marketing Council. He is married with two beautiful daughters. When he is not in the office, Dr. Glicksman is an avid skier and enjoys reading, traveling, and scuba diving.
Bonnie Moser
About Bonnie Moser, Dental Hygienist
I am responsible for educating my patients about their oral health while providing preventive and maintenance care. I have worked here for 30 years, and in that time, I have gotten to know our family of patients really well. It is very rewarding to know that I’ve made a difference in their health and their outlook on life. At home, I have a daughter, a son, and a dog to keep me busy. I enjoy staying active and can be found running, swimming, skiing, and weight training when I have the chance.
Joey Jimenez
About Joey Jimenez, Office Manager
I have been in the healthcare field for over 25 years and I found my passion in Dentistry in the year 2000 when I moved to San Diego, California. I wanted to try something different in the business world and I knew I wanted to stay in the healthcare administration. I worked for Medical doctors from Dermatology, Urology and Radiology and I found that Medicine was an area that even though it was rewarding for helping those who were very ill, I found myself wanting more to learn and explore. I wanted a career that provided a combination of beauty and health to our patients and that’s when I found my passion in Dentistry.
For fun, I am a foodie!! I love to try new restaurants and enjoy wine tastings! I love the beach and when ever time and weather permits it, you will find me somewhere at the beach or lounging by my pool. I have a fur baby name Chewy. He is the cutest and most lovable 5 pound Yorkie. I have a meme on my work board that reads “I work hard so my dog can have a better life”. That’s my life in a nut shell. LOL!
Lellanis Gonzalez
About Lellanis Gonzalez, Dental Hygienist
Lellanis was born and raised in South Florida. Lellanis has been in the dental field for over 20 years and became a Dental Hygienist in 2010. She started her dental career as a dental assistant when she was just 16 years old. She continued growing in the field and worked her way to Office Manager while going to school to become a Dental Hygienist. Her need to continue growing and learning in the field led her to finish her Bachelors in Dental Hygiene in 2012. Lellanis makes patients feel at ease by building confidence, trust and friendship with each patient. Her beautiful smile and understanding nature make it easy for patients to feel comfortable. Aside from dentistry, Lellanis is married and has two beautiful girls. When not working or at “Cheerleading”, she enjoys spending time with family and friends.
Dr Liset Perez
About Dr Liset Perez, General Dentist
She was born in a small town in Cuba and grew up in Miami. She received her dental degree from Columbia University College of Dental Medicine in New York City. She then went on to complete her training at a postgraduate residency program at the Brooklyn Veterans Affairs NY Harbor Healthcare System.
She speaks Spanish and English.
“Dentistry is very rewarding”. She loves to connect with patients and take time to educate them. Dentistry can make patients feel very vulnerable and she strives to make them feel as comfortable as possible. It is the little things in life that make the biggest difference.
Staying active is very important to her. In her free time. She enjoys strength training and rock climbing. However, her favorite thing to do is to dance salsa. She also loves traveling, going to the beach, paddle boarding, watching Disney Movies and exploring new places to eat.
Dr. Sergio Kellesarian
About Dr. Sergio Kellesarian, General Dentist
Dr. Kellesarian is originally from Caracas, Venezuela. In 2004, he graduated first on his class among 149 students, from Universidad Santa Maria where he received his Doctorate of Dental Surgery. He continued her training at Eastman Institute for Oral Health and the University of Rochester, completing post graduate studies in Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) and General Practice Residency (GPR). Dr. Kellesarian also holds a Master of Science in Health Professions Education from the University of Rochester.
Dr. Kellesarian has been also involved actively in the academic field, holding positions as Assistant Professor of Clinical Dentistry in Universidad Santa Maria and the University of Rochester, teaching and mentoring undergraduate and postdoctoral dental students and residents in all aspects of dentistry.
Dr. Kellesarian has extensive experience in all aspects of dentistry, including the management of medically compromised and developmentally disabled patients. Dr. Kellesarian practices in all disciplines of dentistry, including general and restorative dentistry, oral surgery, periodontics, endodontics, prosthodontics and cosmetic dentistry. The main premise of Dr. Kellesarian is never forget that we are human beings caring for health of other human beings, he calls it: “The Human Side of Dentistry”. For him it is not just about fixing teeth, it is about focusing in becoming an advocate for his patients’ health and wellbeing.
Dr. Kellesarian is also a passionate for dental research. Over the past 15 years he has conducted and coordinated community-based and clinical research, publishing over 50 articles in the most prestigious medical and dental journals. His areas of research include interactions between oral health and systemic diseases.
Dr. Michael Zinn
About Dr. Michael Zinn, General Dentist
Dr. Michael Zinn was born and raised in Miami, Florida. He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Michigan before moving back to Florida where he earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Nova Southeastern University. Dr. Zinn’s grandfather was a dentist and he is motivated to continue his family’s legacy in Dentistry. Dr. Zinn focuses his practice on restorative dentistry, cosmetic dentistry and family dentistry. He is also trained and certified in Invisalign and implant placement and restorations.
Dr. Zinn enjoys incorporating the most up to date technology into his practice in order to serve his patients better. When he isn’t practicing dentistry, Dr. Zinn enjoys golfing, skiing, paddle-boarding and spending time with his friends and family.
Dr. Dominic Morel
About Dr. Dominic Morel, Oral and Maxillofacial surgery
Dr. Dominic Morel obtained his dental degree from the University of Montreal in 2008. He then went on to pursue a residency in oral and maxillofacial surgery at the Albert Einstein School of Medicine/Montefiore Medical Center in the Bronx, NY. The teaching at Montefiore Medical Center consisted of the full scope oral and maxillofacial surgery and anesthesia education, as well as focused training in implant dentistry and related procedures, including bone grafting. After residency, he furthered his training by pursuing a fellowship in orthognathic and temporomandibular joint surgery.
His practice currently focuses on dental implantology, bone grafting, and dental extractions including wisdom teeth. Dr. Morel also offers IV sedation to the apprehensive and anxious patients.
Dr. Morel is a Canadian and American Board Certified Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon, and a member of several Dental organizations.
Dr. Ambar Pagani
About Dr. Ambar Pagani, General Dentist | Prosthodontist
Dr. Pagani is originally from Caracas, Venezuela and completed her undergraduate studies at Universidad Central de Venezuela in 2002 and her doctoral in Dental Studies in 2007. Dr. Pagani graduated Magna Cum Laude and Valedictorian of her graduate class of 2007. She continued her training her at NOVA Southeastern University completing post graduate studies in Prosthodontics in 2012. This additional three years of training prepared Dr. Pagani for certification as a prosthodontist, specializing in the restoration and replacement of teeth including crowns, bridges, complete and removable partial dentures, traumatic injuries to the mouth’s structure and/or teeth as well as Dr. Pagani stays up to date on the current clinical trends for removable and fixed prosthodontics as well as Implant Restorations and Full Mouth Rehabilitations.
When not busy restoring smiles of her patients, Dr. Pagani can be found chasing after her toddler with her husband, attending HEAT games or even out for a jog or boxing(when time permits!)
Dr. Mitul Patel
About Dr. Mitul Patel, DMD
Dr. Mitul Patel graduated Cum Laude from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nutrition. He later earned his DMD degree from LECOM School of Dental Medicine in 2017. As a general dentist he has already taken over 200 hours of Continuing Education so that he is always up to date and is able to give his patients the best dental care possible.
Dr. Patel is a native Floridian and grew up in a small town of Arcadia, FL. But with his desire to see the world, he has traveled to over 20 different countries. He recently got married to his wife Milinda who is currently attending Pharmacy school. When away from the office, Dr. Patel enjoys spending time with family, going to the gym, and watching shows/ movies.
Dr. Matthew Fien
About Dr. Matthew Fien, Periodontist
Dr. Matthew J. Fien received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida and his doctorate degree from Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery. He completed post graduate training in the specialty of Periodontology at Nova Southeastern University and is Board Certified by the American Academy of Periodontology.
Dr. Fien has completed a number of research projects which have led to his work being published in various peer reviewed dental journals, including the Journal of Periodontology, the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, the Compendium of Continuing Education in Dentistry, and the International Journal of Periodontics and Restorative Dentistry. Dr. Fien is actively engaged in several clinical research studies in the fields of Periodontics, Implant Dentistry, and Tissue Regeneration. He is an active member of the American Academy of Periodontology and the Academy of Osseointegration.
Born and raised in South Florida, Dr. Fien enjoys playing golf, tennis, and basketball. He also enjoys listening to music and spending time with his wife, Eugenia and his two sons, Ethan and Dylan.
Dr. Scott Spencer
About Dr. Scott Spencer, Orthodontist
Dr. Spencer was awarded his DMD degree from Nova Southeastern University. Upon graduation he moved to western Pennsylvania and completed his orthodontic residency at Seton Hill University where he earned a certificate in Dento-facial Orthopedics and a Master of Science degree in orthodontics. Dr. Spencer is board eligible having successfully passed the American Board of Orthodontics written exam.
Dr. Spencer is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, American Dental Association, Florida Dental Association, and the Southern Association of Orthodontist.
Dr Spencer is a native Floridian and is happy to be practicing close to his home town, Boynton beach. He lives locally with his wife Heather and their two boys Cam and Blake. Dr. Spencer enjoys coaching youth soccer and in his spare time he enjoys spending time fishing, and relaxing with his family. Dr. Spencer also holds a Bachelors of Science degree in Turfgrass Science from the University of Florida and continues to have interest in horticulture.
Dr. Alicia King
About Dr. Alicia King, Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Alicia King was born and raised in Miami, Florida. She is of Cuban and Colombian descent and speaks Spanish fluently. Dr. Alicia obtained her bachelor’s degree in Food Science and Human Nutrition and her Doctorate of Dental Medicine Degree from the University of Florida in. Go Gators!
Dr. Alicia then moved to Pennsylvania where she completed her specialty training at St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children in Philadelphia and completed over 100 dental rehab cases in the operating room.
Additionally, Dr. Alicia is a board certified pediatric dentist. She serves as a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and is a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
Her passion and love for making patients laugh and smile while being in the dental chair inspired her to pursue her journey in pediatric dentistry. She treats every kid as if they were her own and wears her heart on her sleeve. Dr. Alicia is a true believer that laughter is the best medicine!
Outside of work Dr. Alicia enjoys running half marathons, going to the beach, and spending time with her family. Dr. Alicia is expecting a little girl in August 2020 and she couldn’t be more excited!
Dr. Baokhoi Bui
About Dr. Baokhoi Bui, Endodontist
Dr. Baokhoi Bui received his formal dental education at the State University of New York at Buffalo, in both the School of Pharmacy and the School of Dentistry. He completed his residency in endodontics at the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Bui continues to update his education through courses specific to endodontics in order to provide his patients with the most effective treatment options. He is also an active member of the American Association of Endodontics.
It is Dr. Bui’s goal to help his patients retain their natural teeth whenever possible. He finds it very satisfying to treat fearful patients and show them that endodontic treatment, root canals is particular, can be completely painless.
Dr. Bui is a native of Buffalo, NY, and has lived in Fort Lauderdale for the past six years. He has two daughters who he loves to spend quality time with, especially when they’re at the beach, kayaking, and biking.
Marlene Santana
About Marlene Santana, Treatment Coordinator
Marlene was born and raised in New York City. She has been in dentistry for 28 years. She started her career as a Dental Assistant in 1992, after 15 years, she decided to go into the Management and Administrative part of dentistry. She really enjoys helping patients and educating them in achieving total health and wellness. Marlene loves to cook, dance, read and the beach is her happy place. She is a wife and a mother to a teenage son who is a second degree black belt in Tae kwon Do. Marlene has a big family and she enjoys spending time with them every opportunity she gets.
Dr Gabriela Abascal
About Dr Gabriela Abascal, General Dentist
Dr. Abascal was born in Cuba, raised in Miami and New Jersey. She received her dental degree from Florida International University. She then went on to complete her training at NYU College of Dentistry. She wanted to become a Dentist because it combines Art and Science.
She speaks Spanish and English. She enjoys staying active and has ran three marathons.
Cheryl Levy
About Cheryl Levy, Dental Hygienist
I studied dental hygiene at Miami Dade Community College where I graduated in 1980. While working full time, I returned to school at Florida International University where I earned my second degree in Health Services Administration. Working for the Dental Care Group has contributed to my satisfaction in the dental field and has allowed me to grow as a professional. I enjoy the continuous learning that dentistry provides in order to give our patients the best quality of care. When I’m not in the office I enjoy spending time with my wonderful family, especially if we’re outdoors camping, rafting, or biking on the beach.
Jenny Clemente
About Jenny Clemente, Office Manager
Jenny Clemente is a passionate, innovative problem solver with creativity, empathy, and clinical expertise. She started her career in 2007, graduating as a dental assistant, and shortly after found her passion in dentistry. She expanded her knowledge in the field and moved into management, where she found her niche in helping and educating patients on their dental health. Jenny manages our Pembroke Pines location, oversees the office’s daily operations, and ensures the effectiveness of the practice’s staff and processes. Her main priority has been providing our patients with a first-class experience each visit.
In her free time, Jenny with her family also volunteered and participated in community activities to assist the homeless.
Lana Agres
About Lana Agres
Lana Agres has always had a passion for dentistry. Originally from Ukraine, she immigrated with her family as a young child to the United States, to live in Miami Beach, FL. She studied dental hygiene and has practiced for over 22 years. Continuing her journey in dentistry, she began working as a treatment coordinator at the Dental Care Group, and has been doing so since 2015. Her most precious joy in life is family; she is married with two beautiful children and cat Gnocchi! She loves travel, cooking, singing, playing games, and entertaining friends.
Veronica Parra
About Veronica Parra, Dental Hygienist
I am one of our dental hygienists here at our amazing dental care group facility. I am always friendly, optimistic, and dedicated to making sure you have a comfortable, stress-free dental visit. I love the fact that I change people’s lives by promoting good health and self confidence, and creating bright smiles that last a lifetime. I am a happy mother of one daughter and the wife of a loving husband. We also have a Maltese named Richie. I love watching movies, am a voracious reader, and I dance every chance I get.
Claudia Gibson
About Claudia Gibson, Dental Hygienist
I am very passionate when it comes to educating my patients on improving their oral health. It is very exciting when I see a patient’s health improve because of what they learned from our visit. Dental hygiene is all about health and wellness of the mouth, and of the entire body as well. I am proud to provide such an important service to those in my community. I am a home body, so I love spending time with my two daughters and our dog, Coby. I volunteer my cooking skills for the middle and high school track meets and stay active with spinning classes.
Abigail Moline
Sheena Usher
Amarilys Guerrero
About Amarilys Guerrero, Director of Human Resources
Amarilys was born in New Jersey and raised in Florida, attended Miramar High School and Broward College. She enjoys spending time with family, dancing and riding her motorcycle.
Amarilys Guerrero joined The Dental Care Group as the Director of Human Resources in 2015. In this role, Amarilys Guerrero is responsible for overseeing the function of Human Resources department: processing new hires, benefits
administration, payroll, and compensation administration.
During her time, Ms Guerrero has implemented several improvements to The Dental Care Group Human Resource Functions. These improvements include implementing an electronic filing system, developing an online orientation presentation and designed comprehensive HR procedures. Her goal is to encourage an environment that values diversity, gratitude, employee development and professionalism, while maintaining a dedicated focus on organization effectiveness.