Dentist Los Gatos
Get to Know
Dr. Cristina Herrera
Dr. Herrera loves the dynamic nature of dentistry. Every day brings new challenges and rewards, and interacting with patients and building relationships is incredibly fulfilling. She finds great satisfaction in transforming smiles and improving people’s oral health. Being able to provide pain relief, restore function, and enhance someone’s confidence is deeply rewarding. Additionally, she enjoys the collaborative aspect of running our practice and working alongside a dedicated team.
Before you meet her in person, you can learn a little more about Dr. Herrera and what brought her from Tulsa to Los Gatos below.
Why Did You Decide
to Become a Dentist?
While finishing her zoology degree, Dr. Herrera’s guidance counselor suggested she consider dental school. She had always enjoyed science and working with her hands, and dentistry offered a blend of both. Coupled with her positive experiences with her own dentist, it felt like a natural progression.
Where Did You Study Dentistry?
After earning both her undergrad and DDS degrees from the University of Oklahoma, Dr. Herrera trained for an additional year in a general practice residency (GPR) at Michael Reese Hospital in Chicago. This gave her valuable experience working with patients who had complex dental and medical needs. She then spent time on the faculty in the oral diagnosis department at the University of Oklahoma.
Now, she regularly completes over 100 hours of continuing education every year through respected institutions such as Spear Education.
Dr. Herrera began her private practice in 2000 when she and her family moved to the Bay Area. Today, she is an active member of the American Dental Association and California Dental Association.
Outside of the Dental Office, What Do You Like to Do?
Dr. Herrera has been married for over 25 years, and her favorite thing to do is spend time outdoors. Hiking is a particular passion of hers, with Half Dome being one of her favorite places. Staying active is important to her, so she tries to incorporate exercise into her routine most days. She also loves to travel, is an avid college football fan (Go Sooners!), and is a lifelong adventurer (she has gone sky-diving multiple times and regularly rides motorcycles).