TLC Dentistry

Dr. Cardenas was raised on the Monterey Peninsula. He received his Bachelors degree in Combined Science with a minor in Chemistry from Santa Clara University in 2001. He continued his education at Creighton University and earned his Masters degree in Clinical Anatomy in 2004. In 2009, he received his D.D.S. degree and graduated with honors from the University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry. His interest in learning led him to complete a General Practice Residency at the Palo...Read More Alto Veterans Affairs hospital where he received further experience in hospital dentistry, oral surgery, dentures and periodontics (gum surgery). His interests include traveling, weight training, golfing, tennis, jogging. Dr. Cardenas is fluent in Spanish Read Less

Brian Vongchanphen is a graduate of the Loma Linda School of Dentistry. He attended Pacific Union College in the Napa Valley where he graduated with a degree in business. Dr. Brian continues to attend classes and seminars keeping up to date with modern dental techniques to provide the best care possible. Growing up on the island of Oahu, he enjoys fishing, the ocean, golf and tinkering with cars. He, his wife and two dogs have been enjoying all that the Monterey area has to offer. “I have always...Read More enjoyed being close to the sea, and am lucky to be in this beautiful area. I am honored to have the opportunity to get to know you and help you with your dental needs” Read Less

Hi my name is George. I am the eldest son of Dr. Philip Lips. I joined the team at TLC in October of 1997. I've enjoyed getting to know our patients over the years. Some of our patients remember me as a little one when my mom would bring me to the office with her. I have a deep appreciation for cars, especially Muscle cars from the 1960's and 70's.

Elizabeth is a graduate of Cabrillo College. She joined TLC in September of 2009. Her passion for Dental Hygiene stems from the bonding experiences she builds with patients while in her chair. Born and raised in Monterey County she enjoys spending time with her family, reading , and hiking.

Well known  in the Salinas community, Mrs. Martignoni  is a graduate of the Cabrillo College Dental Hygiene Program, and has worked in Salinas since 1990 . She is a past president of the Monterey Bay Dental Hygienist Association, and has dedicated many hours to continuing education in order to enhance her skills. Married to husband Shawn, they have a son, Zachary.  Her interests include missionary work in Costa Rica, traveling, cycling, skiing, tennis, photography, reading and cooking.  She look...Read Mores forward to working with both former and new patients at TLC Dentistry. Read Less

Hi my name is Sam. I became a part of the team at TLC Dentistry in August of 2010. I received my Dental Hygiene license from Fresno City College. My hobbies include watching sports and working out. I have two dogs named Harley and Ivy.

Hi! My name is Deanna and I am one of the hygienists here at TLC Dentistry. I have found the most comfortable and caring office on the central coast, thus making my passion for dental hygiene and patient care a pleasure. I was born and raised here in Monterey County. I am married to Coby; who is a wonderful husband and father to our children Hunter and Lacy. Working part time here at TLC Dentistry really allows my professional and personal life to balance.

Hi my name is Mirna. I became a part of the TLC family in September of 2010. Born in Hollister and now residing in Salinas, I have a wonderful husband and two grown children. I became a dental assistant in 1997. I continually learn the new techniques and advances in dental restorative treatment, specializing in CEREC (Cad/Cam) restoration design. I am privileged to be able to utilize my skills to better serve and treat our clients.

Hi my name is Adriana. I became the Patient Care Coordinator at TLC in August of 2011. I enjoy working with our clients to satisfy their scheduling needs and work to make dentistry affordable by offering customized financing options. I am cross-trained in both administration and clinical. I have four wonderful children and enjoy going to the beach and sporting events.

Dr. Philip Lips graduated from Saint Marys’ College, Moraga, In 1958 with a Bachlor of Science. He earned his Doctor of Dental Sugery at the University of Southern California in 1962 and opened his first practice of General Dentistry in Salinas. A member of the American Dental Association since his student years at University of Southern California, he taught in the dental hygiene program at Cabrillo College. Since childhood Dr. Lips has loved trains and has become both a history buff, regard...Read Moreing railroads, and a master builder of model trains. He enjoys spending time with his family, especially his three grandson's Nick, Chris, and Julian. He has also appeared locally as a character actor with the Western Stage. He is fond of music and enjoys being a choral singer. A lover of birds he has a bath and feeders visible from the dental operatorys. Read Less

Karen is the “Hygienist Emeritus” of TLC Dentistry. Married to Dr. Lips shortly after they both graduated from Univesity of Southern California, she practiced dental hygiene for 30 years before her retirement in 1996. Earlier, she was the first hygienist on staff at the then brand new Cabrillo College Dental Hygiene program. Karen is now a supervising consultant for TLC Dentistry. She is the retired Parish Liturgist and continuing Choir director at San Carlos Cathedral. Her four grown childr...Read Moreen and three adored and adorable grandsons are highlights of her life. Read Less