My name is Megan Chavez, and I serve as the receptionist here at El Dorado Dental. I take pride in welcoming patients and ensuring they feel comfortable and cared for from the moment they arrive. I enjoy supporting our team and helping create a positive experience for everyone who visits our office. Outside of work, I value spending time with my family and managing my small photography business.
Originally from Denver, Colorado, Jennifer relocated to Santa Fe over 20 years ago and now resides in Albuquerque, New Mexico with her husband, Harry, and their three sons. Married for over 17 years, she has deep roots in the community.
Jennifer graduated from the University of New Mexico in 2016 with a Bachelor's in Dental Hygiene. Continuing her educational journey, she earned a Master's of Dental Hygiene Science with Distinction in 2023, specializing in nanotechnology applications within biological sciences.
A dedicated educator, Jennifer teaches dental science courses to dental assistants in Albuquerque, sharing her expertise and passion for the field. She is widely recognized for her gentle, caring approach to dental care, providing her patients with skillful, personalized treatment and thoughtful guidance.
Outside of work, Jennifer enjoys hiking, listening to podcasts and music, and spending quality time with her friends and family.
My name is Camille and I have been a dental assistant for 6 years and recently joined this wonderful team. I pride myself on providing patient care and making patients comfortable during their dental appointments. I’m proud to be a part of this fantastic team of professionals and environment that promotes continuous learning and innovation.
Outside of work, I love being with my family, at the race track or traveling.
Abby was born in Chicago, IL, and raised in Las Vegas, NV. She graduated from hygiene school in 2017 in Salt Lake City, UT. She worked in private practice for 2 years and then was employed for 4 wonderful years at Hill Air Force Base where she met her husband, Cory. With this marriage, she gained an awesome bonus son, Shawn. Abby and Cory have two fur babes, Luna and Narcissa. Fair warning: Abby is quite obsessed with them and will talk about them any chance she gets!
She is very passionate about creating a fun and comfortable, yet informative experience in the dental chair. She communicates with patients in a manner that sets their mind at ease when in her care.
In her free time, Abby enjoys spending time with her dogs, reading, napping, and finding all the best places for carbs, açaí bowls and desserts.
Hi, my name is Camila and I am the sterilization tech. I am a currently attending college and looking forward to working in the medical field. I enjoy working at Eldorado Dental and ensuring a clean and sterile environment.
My name is Heather Valdez and I have been a dental assistant for 9 years. I love what I do and strive to make people feel welcome and comfortable in our office. I enjoy working with Dr. Ritchey and the rest of the staff to provide the best quality dental care to our patients.
Always know you will feel cared for and listened to in my chair. I appreciate each patient and the fact that you place your trust in me. Here at Eldorado Dental I have been caring for patients since August of 2020. Prior to that I was a Practicing Dental Hygienist in the State of Michigan. I began my dental career in 1995 as a Certified Dental Assistant and then in 2005 graduated as a Registered Dental Hygienist. I continue to educate myself in all aspects of oral health with each passing year to ensure I know the latest and best methods of practicing oral healthcare.
Creating a comfortable, and prevention focused appointment is my goal for each patient I meet. The health of your mouth and the way it enhances your life every single day matters to me. Feeling wonderful smiling and comfortable while chewing are not to be taken for granted. I am here to help you continue to do that. If we ever get the chance to meet I may tell you about my family. My husband Shane and I have 4 children, Chelsea, Rebecca, AJ, and Nathan. We also have our fur babies, Maxx and Pepper. I enjoy trail running, hiking, walking my dog, singing, dancing and cuddling with my cat. I deeply love connecting with my children and spending time with my husband and family. I cherish my friendships and know that “community”- whether at work or play- is what makes a life worth living.
Finally, dentistry and how oral health affects overall systemic health is something I’m very passionate about. I absolutely love my profession and the team I work with at Eldorado Dental. I look forward to seeing you in my chair at our office.
“Brightening smiles and promoting healthy habits—because a healthy mouth is the gateway to a healthier life.” - Roxann Woodward
Hello my name is Natalia and I am a certified dental assistant. I have been working for Dr. Haley Ritchey for over 15 years. I enjoy interacting with the patients and making them feel comfortable. I am really grateful to work with Dr. Ritchey who is such a highly educated dentist. My purpose is to help educate and deliver quality health care to the public.
I finished dental assisting school four years ago. I enjoy working in the dental field. I look forward to meeting and interacting with patients. I currently take continuing education classes to further my skills & knowledge of modern dentistry. I will answer all of your questions regarding insurance and payments.
My name is Shelley Hilliard and I live in Galisteo, NM. I am originally from San Antonio, Texas, but moved to this area in 1994. I received my degree in Dental Hygiene from the University of New Mexico in 1999. My goal is to provide every patient with the best care, based on the latest technologies available in the hygiene field. I am passionate about my career and feel fortunate to be part of such an innovative practice.
