OUR FRIENDLY STAFF
Vickie
I first got my braces in 1980 and I loved my new smile so much that I came to work with Dr. Lastra in 1981. Over the years, I have met many wonderful patients and now we are seeing the children of some of those patients. It has been so much fun to be in one place for so long and to see the changes in the lives of these people and their families.
At work, I keep myself busy by making sure our bills are up to date and that your insurance claims are filled and filed. I write and edit the quarterly newsletter, Orthowire. I also try to make sure we have the office supplies we need to run the business part of the office.
When I am not at work, I like gardening, going for walks, reading, working on crafts and being with my friends and family. I am also kept busy with my cats, which are my children.
Zoila
My name is Zoila. I worked for many years as a Dental Assistant for Dr. Lastra’s father. Now, I work for his daughter. I’ve been in this field nearly all my life and I am very happy with this job.
My favorite pastime is bingo. I am almost ready for retirement and will be glad to have the free time to spend playing with my two beautiful grandchildren, Lauren and Christopher (and playing bingo). I am very blessed to have my grandchildren, my son, Armando, and his wife, Roxanna.
Millie
My name is Millie. I was born in Cuba and then moved to New York, where I lived for many years. Since moving to Florida, I have come to love the outdoors, the beach and the warm weather.
I have worked several years as a Dental Assistant in other specialties. I’ve been Dr. Lastra’s Orthodontic Assistant since December 1989. I’ve watched many of our patients grow up.
Someday, I would like to go to cooking school. I am always searching for new recipes to make nice dishes for parties and holidays.
Albania
My name is Albania but they call me “Alba.” I have been working here since 1988 as a Lab Technician. I make the models when you first start your treatments and I sometimes make your retainers when you finish your treatment.
My daughter, Veronica, was only 3 years old when I started working here and she is now in college. She has grown up in our office and is our pride and joy.
I love to sew clothes and home furnishings and I enjoy decorating.
I am so thankful for my friends at work, for the love, laughter and tears that we have shared together. I am also thankful to Dr. Lastra for her concern for us.
Nancy
My name is Nancy. I have worked with Dr. Lastra since March 2000. I work everywhere in the office. I started working as the Receptionist and lately have been working in the Treatment Area. I help Dr. Lastra keep up with meetings and appointments. Sometimes, I get to be in the first exam appointment when Carmen is doing records. I like meeting and getting to know new people.
I have lots of fun at work. If it is your birthday, I will give you a birthday hat and sing Happy Birthday to you.
My favorite things in life are food, friends and family. I have two children and a little dog. My daughter is an honors student at the University of Miami and my son is a typical guy. He loves having fun, just like me.
Dory
I am Dory, the youngest of Dr. Lastra’s staff. I have been working for her since January 2001. I love my work as an Orthodontic Assistant because I enjoy working with the kids.
I came to the United States in 2000 and I am going to school at nights to learn everything about my new country. I am working to become a citizen as soon as I can.
My husband, Ivan, and I have a daughter who is the joy of our lives. We share very special times together. I also have a cat named Pandy, who originally lived with me in Cuba.
I enjoy exercising and playing tricks on the rest of the staff.
Julie
Hi! I’m Julie. I was born in Iquitos, Peru. I’ve been living in Miami since February 20th, 2000. Currently I am a student at Miami Dade College Wolfson Campus. In January I’ll be transferring to FIU to study Management Information Systems. Some of my classes are computer programming, statistics, economics and accounting.
In my free time I go to the movies, hang out with my boyfriend and other friends and play video games.
I started working with Dr. Lastra in August 2005 as a part-time scheduling assistant at the front desk. I also pull charts, call to confirm appointments prepare progress reports and answer phones and lots more.
I really like working with everybody in the office, they make me feel very happy and special.
Gisela
I am Gisela. When my son and daughter were small they were patients of Dr. Lastra. She did marvelous orthodontic treatment on them. Time has gone by and I entered back into the work force and got a job with Dr. Lastra. Today, I feel blessed to be able to work with Dr. Lastra, an excellent doctor and also a great human being.
Orthodontic treatment is wonderful and when it is finished the change is great and people feel happy with their pretty smile.
I thank God for having the opportunity of helping others, especially children. I am looking forward to my grandson, who is my greatest happiness, coming for treatment.
Yami
My name is Yami. I’m attending school trying to complete my requirements for Dental Hygiene. I am one of the few people who enjoys going to the dentist. I love teeth and the first thing that I notice in people is their smile. I love working with my hands and knowing that at the end of their treatment patients will leave with a big and beautiful smile. I enjoy the beach, the gym, spending time with my boyfriend and I love to play with my little Chihuahua/Terrier.
Carmen
I am Carmen. I started working for Dr. Lastra in June 2005. I am the treatment coordinator and I get to see all the new patients who come in for treatment. Part of my job is to help explain the treatment, the fees and payment schedule, take the X-Rays, impressions, photos and make up the files for all the new patients. I also take the final records so I get to see everyone from beginning to the end of treatment. I like being able to get to know everyone who comes into our office for treatment.
I like my work place and co workers; especially Dory, my daughter.
When I am not at work I like watching movies, dancing and having a good time with my friends and family. I love animals, nature, kids and being with my family, especially my granddaughter.

