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Meet The Team

The Dentists

Creating Beautiful, Confident Smiles Since 1991.

Drs Kohani and staff

Alexa Magalski

Registered Dental Hygienist

With Us Since: 2022

What patients should know:

I’ve been passionate about dentistry for as long as I can remember, it’s something I knew I wanted to pursue even as a child. My goal is to make every visit comfortable and educational so our patients leave smiling and feeling cared for.

Fun fact:

I’ve completed three half marathons and have a sweet cat named Murphy!

Outside the office:

I love running, staying active, reading, traveling, listening to live music, and soaking up the sun at the beach.

Alexandra Cus

Time at La Jolla Cosmetic Dentistry and Orthodontics: 2021

Occupation: Insurance Coordinator

What patient should know about you?

I’m passionate about being an advocate for our patients especially when it comes to navigating the often-confusing world of insurance. Whether it’s making endless phone calls, clarifying coverage, or appealing denied claims, I’m always ready to go to bat for our patients to help them get the benefits they deserve. My goal is to take the stress out of the process so you can focus on your care, not
paperwork.

Fun fact:

I’ve read the entire Harry Potter series 14 times, and I met Pierce Brosnan on a plane.

Outside the office:

When I’m not working, I enjoy reading, spending time outdoors with my dogs, and exploring our new city of Wichita, Kansas with my husband. We love finding local restaurants, visiting parks, and discovering everything the area has to offer.  I also enjoy diving into home renovation projects. Whether it’s painting, organizing, or updating spaces, I love turning our house into a home one project at a time.

Ana Torres

Registered Dental Assistant with Extended Functions

With Us Since: 2002

What patients should know:

I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Dr. Kohani for over 20 years. Building lasting relationships with our patients and being part of their care journey is what makes this work so fulfilling.

Fun fact:

I love to sing and dance whenever I get the chance!

Outside the office:

You can find me playing the drums, enjoying volleyball at the park, or spending quality time with my family.

Araceli Velez

Dental Assistant/Sterilization Manager

With Us Since: 2009

What patients should know:

I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Dr. Kohani for over 15 years. My goal is to make every patient feel comfortable, cared for, and supported throughout their visit. I love building
lasting relationships with our patients and helping create the welcoming, family-like atmosphere
our office is known for.

Fun fact:

I play the bass and love staying active by playing sports.

Outside the office:

When I’m not at the office, I enjoy spending time with my dogs, Sparky and Lucy, cooking, playing sports, and making music.

Brandie Marvel

Office Manager

With Us Since: 2014

What patients should know:

With over 10 years at La Jolla Cosmetic Dentistry & Orthodontics, I’ve found my passion in creating a smooth, welcoming, and supportive experience for every patient who walks through our doors. I’m deeply committed to anticipating challenges before they arise and finding solutions that make everyone’s day a little easier. I care deeply about people, and I truly love being someone patients and our team can count on.

Fun fact:

I’m a proud military mom of three boys and excited to become a grandma soon.

Outside the office:

You’ll often find me at my sons’ sports events, lifting weights at the gym, hiking San Diego’s scenic trails with my family, or singing along at a country music concert. Staying active and spending time with my loved ones keeps me energized and grounded.

Brooklyn Peredez

Receptionist

With Us Since: 2026

What patients should know:

As one of the first faces you’ll see when you visit our office, I love helping patients feel welcomed and comfortable from the moment they arrive. Originally from Oregon, I recently moved to San Diego and enjoy creating a positive, friendly experience for every patient who walks through our doors.

Fun fact:

I’m happiest outdoors- whether it’s at the beach, hiking, or attending music festivals! .

Outside the office:

When I’m not at the office, you’ll usually find me at the beach, spending time with friends and family, or enjoying everything the Southern California lifestyle has to offer.

Outside of the office, Brooklyn enjoys spending time at the beach, staying active with Pilates, and playing volleyball. She loves embracing the Southern California lifestyle and helping create a positive experience for every patient who visits our office.

Danielle Cardwell

Dental Hygienist

With Us Since: 2026

What patients should know:

I graduated from Southwestern College in San Diego and have been working as a dental hygienist for the past three years. Before becoming a hygienist, I spent 13 years as a dental assistant, which gave me a strong clinical foundation and a well-rounded understanding of patient care. I love helping patients feel comfortable, informed, and confident in their oral health while creating a positive experience at every visit.

Fun fact:

Before becoming a dental hygienist, I worked as a dental assistant for 13 years.

Outside the office:

When I’m not at the office, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our two children. As a family, we love going to the beach, paddle boarding, hiking, and exploring the outdoors together.

Leanne LaMonica

Dental Hygienist

With Us Since: 2021

What patients should know:

I graduated with honors from the Farmingdale State College Dental Hygiene program in 2014 and am passionate about helping patients achieve and maintain healthy, confident smiles. I strive to make every visit comfortable, personalized, and positive, and I enjoy building lasting relationships with my patients while helping them feel at ease in the dental chair.

Fun fact:

I love traveling and exploring new places with my family.

Outside the office:

When I’m not at the office, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our two children, traveling, and making lasting memories together.

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If you are ready to see how your smile can improve with Dr. Kohani, then contact La Jolla Cosmetic Dentistry & Orthodontics at 858-295-0603 and schedule a consultation. We’d love to hear from you, and we’re excited to get started on bettering your oral health! Call our office today to learn more about what we offer.