
Meet Dr. Nicolle Miller
Dr. Miller grew up in Whittier, California. After earning her Bachelor of Science in Biology at the University of California, Irvine, she went on to complete her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at UCLA. While at UCLA, Dr. Miller served as class president for two years and was named a Regents Scholar of the University of California. She also received a number of other awards and recognitions, including:
- The California Dental Association Recognition of Outstanding Academic Achievements and Contributions
- The Naval Health Professional Scholarship
- Achievement Award in Endodontics from the American Association of Endodontics
- Award in Excellence from the American Academy of Orofacial Pain
Dr. Miller completed her General Practice Residency at the Naval Medical Center in San Diego. She has over ten years of experience as a general dentist, many of which were spent in the US Navy where she served as a dental officer for four years, including a 2 ½ year tour on the USS Ogden. She then spent three additional years in the US Naval Reserve completing medical humanitarian missions in Haiti, Arkansas, and Hawaii.
For Dr. Miller, one of the most rewarding aspects of her career is that it enables her to give back both locally and internationally. Through K.I.D.S. International Dental Services, she has provided free dental treatment to underserved children in Guatemala and Cambodia. She also participates in CDA Cares, an annual free dental event sponsored by the California Dental Association.
Dr. Miller understands that continuing her education is important in order to stay up to date with the latest techniques and treatments in dentistry. She is a proud affiliate of the Spear Study Group, a small group of elite dental professionals who collaborate on dental cases and build clinical skills.
When she’s not at the office, you’ll find Dr. Miller spending quality time with her husband James, whom she met in the Navy. She also loves traveling, hiking, running, walking her dogs (Sweet Dee and Charlie), and doing Sudoku puzzles.
Professional Memberships
- American Dental Association
- California Dental Association
- San Diego County Dental Society
- Academy of General Dentistry
- Spears Study Group Affiliate
Meet Dr. Kathleen T. Doppenberg
Dr. Kathleen T. Doppenberg was raised in Southern California and earned her B.S. in biochemistry/cell biology from the University of California, San Diego. In 2005, she obtained her Doctor of Dental Surgery at Creighton University’s School of Dentistry in Omaha, Nebraska. After graduating, she went on to work for the U.S. Navy as a general dentist in San Diego and Camp Pendleton, where she provided quality dental care to the men and women of our Navy.
Dr. Doppenberg joined Mission Hills Family Dental in October of 2015. She is dedicated to providing her patients with outstanding care in all aspects of general dentistry. Dr. Doppenberg adds to our practice her wealth of experience and commitment.
Dr. Doppenberg continually attends seminars and hands-on workshops to stay current with the latest techniques and advancements in dentistry. She is an active member of the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association, the Orange County Dental Society, and the United States Dental Institute. Dr. Doppenberg also gives her time and volunteers with the American Red Cross and CDA Cares.
Dr. Doppenberg and her husband, Lt. Col. Bryan James Doppenberg (USAF), have two young men, Blake and William. They enjoy golfing, traveling, and being involved in their church and their children’s school and extracurricular activities.
Meet the Mission Hills Family Dental Team


Martin Patient Care Coordinator
Martin is a recent addition to our team, bringing experience from front office roles in various medical facilities. He is now expanding his skills to the dental field and is enthusiastic about learning and growing in this new environment. Martin’s positive attitude and welcoming smile make him a valued part of our office. In his free time, he enjoys spending quality time with his family and friends.

Liz Office Manager
With over six years of experience in dentistry, Liz has been a key part of our team for four years. She’s known for her leadership, positivity, and genuine care for our patients. Outside the office, Liz loves Disneyland, concerts, traveling and most of all hanging out with her cute little corgis.

Jayson Registered Dental Hygienist
Jayson is our amazing full-time hygienist and has over 20 years experience. Jayson brings a gentle touch, deep knowledge, and a kind approach to every patient interaction. He’s passionate about helping people feel at ease while providing top-quality care and education. Outside of the office. Jayson enjoys spending time with his family, shooting hoops, and going on cruises whenever he gets the chance.

Vanessa Lead Dental Assistant
Vanessa is our fantastic lead dental assistant, known for her positive energy and contagious enthusiasm. With over seven years of experience in the dental field, she’s committed to making every patient feel comfortable and cared for. Outside of work Vanessa enjoys spending quality time with her friends and family.

Esmeralda Registered Dental Assistant
Esmeralda is a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) who prides herself on building a strong foundation of trust with her patients and helping them feel confident in the quality care they receive. Esmeralda enjoys taking the time to teach and explain dental procedures in a way that patients can easily understand, helping them feel more informed and at ease. Outside of work, she enjoys cooking, photography, and spending quality time with her pets, friends, and family.

Elizabeth Dental Assistant
Eizabeth’s been an awesome part of our team these past two years. She joined dentistry because she loves making people happy and creating lasting relationships with patients. She strives to improve herself and her dental knowledge daily. She enjoys being outdoors and spending time with friends and family.

Rei Registered Dental Assistant
Rei has been a great part of our team for the past two years. She began her dental career in pediatrics and brings that same gentle, compassionate approach to every patient she cares for. Known for her kindness and calm presence, Rei helps create a comfortable and welcoming experience for everyone who walks through our doors. When she’s not at work, Rei enjoys traveling and discovering new places to eat.
Partners/Specialists
Ki Wan Kim, DDS MSD
North San Diego Endodontics
3601 Vista Way Suite 202
Oceanside, CA 92056
760-439-1871
Matthew Madsen, DDS MD
North County Oral & Facial Surgery Center
839 East Grand Ave.
Escondido, CA 92025
760-432-8888
760-439-1871
Robert H. Miner, DDS
Dove Canyon Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
16918 Dove Canyon Road Suite 207
San Diego, CA 92127
858-914-4206
Alan Shelhamer, DDS PC
Shelhamer Oral & Maxillofacial Oral Surgery
6221 Metropolitan Street Suite 103
Carlsbad, CA 92009
760-448-2228
Rich Hardie, DDS MS
Hardie Orthodontics
910 E. Grand Ave. Suite E
Escondido, CA 92025