Why She Was Nominated:

Having earned a dental-school scholarship through the National Health Service Corps, Dr. Maestas now dedicates her skills as site director for a Federally Qualified Health Center in Chaparral, a town just north of El Paso, where she’s the sole dental provider for a population of 14,500, many of whom have never received dental care. She’s an active participant with the Texas Tech University’s Hunt School, where she has helped prepare the curriculum. She’s an active member of her church and has been a mentor and speaker at local colleges.

Exciting New Trend:

“Biomimetic dentis­try paired with digital dentistry will shape the future of how many dentists practice.”

Most Memorable Patient:

“During my AEGD residency, I had the opportunity to connect with a patient of mine who enjoyed country music. I asked the patient if they enjoyed listening to George Strait. They responded that George Strait sang at their wedding! As dentists we get to hear patients’ wonderful stories, but this one was very exciting to hear.”