"Being a father of two rambunctious kids keeps me active outside of the office and I could not be happier! Our weekends are spent exploring the local hiking trails, enjoying the beautiful SoCal beaches and practicing our green thumbs in the garden!"

"Outside the office, give me water, snow, sand, dirt, rocks... I love it all! Serenity abound kayaking or sailing the SoCal harbors, snowboarding on the local mountains, hiking the coastal and mountainous trails, and exploring and cleaning up the OHV trails in my 4X4."

Sean TruOng, DDS

Dr. Sean Truong completed both his Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) degree and specialty training in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). After 15 years of private practice in Las Vegas, Dr. Sean has rejoined Dr. Douglas’ office where he started his orthodontics career over 20 years ago.

Professional Education:

• University of California, Berkeley

• B.A. Molecular and Cellular Biology, 1997

• University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

• Doctor of Dental Surgery, 2002

• Specialty in Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics, 2006

Professional Associations:

• American Association of Orthodontists

• Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists

• American Board of Orthodontics

• American Dental Association

• California Dental Association

DOUGLAS NGUYEN, DDS

Dr. Douglas Nguyen earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) degree from Loma Linda University, California, and continued his training at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) for his orthodontic specialty residency. He spent over 5 years as a clinical instructor at his alma mater, UCLA, Department of Orthodontics.  

Professional Education:

• Loma Linda University, California

• Doctor of Dental Surgery, 1993

• University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

• Specialty in Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics, 1995

Professional Associations:

• American Association of Orthodontists

• Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists

• California State Society of Orthodontists

• World Federation of Orthodontists

• American Dental Association

• California Dental Association

• Loma Linda University, California

• Doctor of Dental Surgery, 1993

• University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

• Specialty in Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics, 1995

Deanna N.
Financial Coordinator

Having been with the office for many years, since meeting both Doctors in my 20s, I've had the opportunity to contribute to all aspects of our operations – from handling billing and coordinating treatments to even assisting chairside. I find real satisfaction in the billing aspect, especially when I can help parents and patients understand their financial options and make treatment affordable. Navigating insurance plans, HSAs, and FSAs can be challenging for people, so I make it a point to spend time with each family, reviewing their benefits, explaining disclosures, and even coordinating coverages.

When I have some downtime, I am often at tennis tournaments, cheering on my kids, or out exploring the local food scene with my family. One of my favorite things to do is discover new travel destinations and plan our family itineraries. But when I'm not on the go, there's nothing I love more than relaxing at home with my doodle, cuddling up on the couch, and watching my favorite TV shows.

Cristal M.
Lead Administrative Officer

Being given the opportunity to work with Team Braces over the last couple years has allowed me to grow and blossom. Getting to work in an environment filled with lovely families and patients and creating relations within the office is a rewarding feeling. 

During my free time, I enjoy doing all things leisure. You will mainly find me reading or shopping for new books to add to my bookshelf. Aside from that, I enjoy rewatching comfort shows and movies.

Sunny T. Treatment Coordinator

I started my journey with the office at the beginning of 2025 and have been loving it so far! Everyone I work with is very friendly and welcoming. One thing I love about my job is meeting new patients and parents and being able to listen to their interest in starting treatment. Everyone has a different journey, but all end their orthodontic treatment with our braces family!

Bella D. Treatment Coordinator

I have recently moved from Vietnam to California in 2025 and joined the Team Braces family. Since joining the team, I have truly enjoyed working around my Braces Team and getting to know the patients and family.

Outside of work, I enjoy cooking new meals and traveling! Some of my favorite places I have traveled to are Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and of course my home town in Vietnam!

Ashley P.
Orthodontic Assistant

One of the things I enjoy most about work is how everyone works together as a team. I am so thankful for the friendships I have built here! Coming into the office knowing I will be around people who can make me laugh and lift my mood is something I truly value.

Outside of work I am a person who absolutely love animals. I find so much joy in visiting zoos and learning about different species. If I am not at a zoo or baking treats, I am probably curled up in bed watching Disney movies with my dog, who is basically my daughter.

Hillary P.
Orthodontic Assistant

I have been interested in dentistry since I was a kid. I like to make our office inviting and help people feel welcomed and at ease. I love every moment working at this office with such great orthodontists and teammates who enlighten me and make me happy.

Outside of the office, I am mostly sleeping. Other than that, I really enjoy baking and taking in scenic views. Music speaks to me, and I listen on repeat. I am very small, but have a huge, warm heart!

Isabela V.
Orthodontic Assistant

I have been a part of Team Braces since 2022! My love for dentistry, especially orthodontics, has only grown more ever since I started. I get to enjoy working alongside the best doctors ever and my fellow coworkers that I always have the best time with. Outside of work, I love to do anything and everything! I do it all from any hiking trails, beach views, trying new foods, going out, and hanging out with family/friends. You will always catch me with a smile on my face!

Karen A.
Orthodontic Assistant

I have been with the Braces family since January 2025, but have been in the orthodontic industry for about six years. What inspired me to join orthodontics, is the ability to create beautiful smiles and life changing results! My short time with the Brace family has been amazing. Everyone has been very welcoming and makes me feel like family. Being with this team does not feel like work because I enjoy interacting with the patients and getting to know them along the way to their perfect smile. 

In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family! We enjoy going to Disneyland, nature walks around parks, and trying new foods. When I have extra free time, my newest hobby has been coloring! 

Richard N.
Orthodontic Assistant

I have been with the Braces family since January 2024. It has been an exciting journey, and I am so grateful to be part of such an amazing team. In fact, I recently started my own braces journey in January 2025 after seeing the incredible transformations happening here. I never thought I would have the chance to achieve the perfect smile myself, but now I am experiencing it firsthand! In addition, I love meeting new patients and helping them work toward their dream smile. One of the best parts of my job is seeing the progress patients make and catching up with them at each appointment to watch their smiles improve.

In my free time, you will find me hanging out with friends, shopping with my mom, exploring new food and drink spots, going on outdoor runs with friends, or giving my car some TLC with detailing and washing!