From the beginning, Dr. Kristen Mayorga knew that she was interested in a career in medicine, and it was early on in her life where dentistry caught her attention. This was all thanks to her neighbor who was a dentist.
“He invited me to his office, allowing me to observe, assist and experience firsthand the intricacies of the profession. Through him, I was also introduced to many of his colleagues,” shares Dr. Mayorga. “While babysitting for their families, I listened to countless conversations about the impact dentistry has, not only in improving oral health but in changing people's lives.”
The exposure at an early age ignited a passion that only intensified year after year. Dental school continued to fuel her appreciation for the profession, where she discovered the unique blend of science, art and problem-solving that went into the field.
For Dr. Mayorga, practicing dentistry is not just about fixing teeth, it's about restoring confidence. “I believe a smile is the window to the soul. Most people hide their true selves when they feel self-conscious about their smile. My goal as a dentist is to help people regain that confidence, let their light shine and live life to the fullest and the healthiest.”
As for Ahwatukee, this has always been home to Dr. Mayorga. She was a member of the first graduating class at Kyrene de la Colina, attended middle school in the area, and graduated from Mountain Pointe High School. Colorado was home during dental school, but she always knew she would want to return to Ahwatukee. Her mom still lives in the home where she was raised today, which makes her roots in the community that much deeper.
To Dr. Mayorga, Ahwatukee is a symbol of a small-town sanctuary in the middle of the city. She enjoys the close relationships and the small-town charm it represents to the community. She sees dentistry as a means of giving back to that community that raised her, not just a job.
“Ahwatukee is like a small town within a big city, and that sense of community is something I truly cherish.”
When it comes to her family, Dr. Mayorga first met her husband early on in their school days, and they reconnected during the time she was getting ready for dental school. He is a Major League Baseball agent and baseball is a family affair. “We are now parents to two sons, Cannon and Cash, who are both very involved in baseball. Last summer, we enjoyed watching the boys compete on the Ahwatukee All-Star team.”
Their love of sports goes beyond playing the game, as they are also season ticket holders for the Arizona Diamondbacks and regularly attend Phoenix Suns and Arizona Cardinal games. “More than just entertainment, these sporting events are a great way for our family to bond and feel a greater connection to the larger Phoenix community,” shares Dr. Mayorga.
Dr. Mayorga’s dedication to the community extends beyond her dental practice as well. Her practice, Desert Dentistry, proudly sponsors Ahwatukee Eats, the popular monthly food truck festival. The event, which features a petting zoo and themed games, offers a wonderful way to engage with the community. “During Halloween, for example, there's a live band along with allergy-free trick-or-treating where we get to a lot of the kids come out in their cutest costumes!” Dr. Mayorga says that participating in this monthly event is a great way to connect with community members and enjoy a fun Friday night together.
Her commitment to giving back doesn't stop there. “Desert Dentistry recently hosted a clothing drive for the California fire victims. We partnered with Girls Change the World, and together we were able to donate over 50 bags of clothing to children in need.”
Dr. Mayorga shares that witnessing the Ahwatukee community’s generosity once again made her believe in the power of people coming together for a cause.
Her history with Desert Dentistry is one of growth and commitment. Dr. Mayorga started with the practice as a hygiene assistant when she was just 16. She returned as a dental assistant during summers while in college and she returned as a dentist full-time following dental school. Two-and-a-half years ago, she had the opportunity to purchase the practice, and the rest is history.
Dr. Mayorga's story beautifully illustrates the integration of personal and professional life. Her dedication to dentistry, evident from her early days to clinic ownership, is mirrored by her commitment to Ahwatukee. This is not merely her workplace, but her lifelong home, where she raises her family and actively serves her community.
To reach Dr. Mayorga and her practice, learn more at DesertDentistry.com.
"I believe a smile is the window to the soul."
“Ahwatukee is a like a small town within a big city, and that sense of community is something I truly cherish.”