Skip to content

Meet Our Dentists

Our experienced dental team provides comprehensive dental care in one convenient San Diego location. With advanced training in general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, and oral surgery, we’re able to deliver a seamless patient experience with high-quality care tailored to your needs.

Smiling male dentist in a white coat with Schaffer Dental Excellence logo, standing in a clinic background.

Dr. Robert Schaffer

DDS

Dr. Schaffer began his academic journey at East Carolina University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree with honors. He was then commissioned as a Naval Officer and awarded a Health Professional Scholarship from the United States Navy to attend New York University College of Dentistry, where he received his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. Following graduation, he was promoted to Lieutenant in the U.S. Navy and completed a postdoctoral residency in Advanced Education in General Dentistry at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville, North Carolina.

During his service, Dr. Schaffer gained extensive experience as a Senior Dental Officer, including deployment with the Marines to Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom. There, he supported both combat readiness and humanitarian missions for the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit. He later served at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, providing dental care to active duty Marines, Sailors, and recruits. Dr. Schaffer is an active member of several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association, California Dental Society, San Diego County Dental Society, and Seattle Study Club, and has completed extensive continuing education in Invisalign, Six Month Smiles, Lumineers, cosmetic dentistry, and implant dentistry.

After six years as a partner in a successful private practice in Wilmington, North Carolina, Dr. Schaffer and his family returned to San Diego, where they are proud to once again call home.

Professional headshot: man in a dark blazer and white shirt smiling at the camera in an office setting

Dr. Connor Malek

DDS

Dr. Connor Malek began his academic career at the University of California, Santa Cruz, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology. He went on to complete his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at the University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry, graduating with high honors. During his time there, he received recognition from the Academy of Operative Dentistry for Outstanding Achievement. As a third-generation dentist, Dr. Malek has been connected to dentistry his entire life, shaping both his clinical interests and his commitment to exceptional patient care.

After completing dental school, Dr. Malek returned to Santa Cruz, where he owned and operated a successful practice. His clinical experience spans restorative dentistry, CAD/CAM technology, surgical extractions, implant placement, bone grafting, sinus elevation, removable prosthodontics, and full arch fixed prosthesis. He also holds a permit in IV sedation, which allows him to provide a wider scope of comprehensive treatment. In addition to his hands-on clinical work, Dr. Malek has led and mentored dental teams, gaining valuable experience in communication, leadership, and efficient practice management.

Outside of the practice, Dr. Malek enjoys an active lifestyle. He spends his free time hiking, camping, surfing, scuba diving, and skiing, reflecting his appreciation for adventure and balance.

Meet Our Dental Team

Our team is committed to creating a comfortable, personalized experience for every patient. From your first visit through treatment completion, we focus on attentive care, clear communication, and long-term oral health for patients throughout Carmel Valley and San Diego.

Your Clinical Team

Our hygienists and dental assistants work closely together to provide efficient, compassionate care at every visit. Through preventive dentistry, patient education, and personalized support, we help patients maintain healthy smiles with comfort and confidence.

Consuelo

Consuelo

Hygienist

Lorrie

Lorrie

Hygienist

Caroline

Caroline

Hygienist

Laura

Laura

Hygienist

Your Administrative Team

Our administrative team is here to make your experience simple and stress-free. From scheduling appointments to coordinating insurance and treatment details, they help ensure every visit to our Carmel Valley dental office feels smooth, welcoming, and well organized.

Lidia

Lidia

Operations Manager

Our Commitment to Green Dentistry

As San Diego County’s first licensed green dental practice, we are committed to combining advanced dentistry with environmentally conscious care. Our eco-friendly technologies support earlier diagnosis, preventive treatment, and a healthier experience for both our patients and the environment.

Learn More
Dental assistant in a black uniform helps a smiling patient with a light blue bib in a clinic.
Modern office waiting area with a gray sofa, patterned pillows, wooden side tables with blue lamps, and a row of black chairs along the wall beneath a large window view outside.
Dental exam chair in a clinic with a monitor on a mobile cart and overhead light, overlooking a window view to outside.
Smiling male dentist in a white coat standing in a bright clinic hallway, looking at the camera.
Dental panoramic X-ray or CBCT machine in a dental clinic, with patient positioning arm and control panel visible.

A Look Inside Our Office

Located in Carmel Valley at 12750 Carmel Country Rd #205, San Diego, CA 92130, our office was designed to create a calm, modern, and comfortable dental experience. Every detail is thoughtfully designed to support efficient care, patient comfort, and a welcoming atmosphere from start to finish.

Thrilled Patients Share Their Glowing 5-Star Reviews! Uncover What Sets Our Care Apart!