Meet Our Doctor

Dr. Joel Vela

Dentistry, General Pediatrics
Meet

Dr. Joel Vela

Joel J. Vela, DDS, a native Houstonian, received his bachelor’s degree in psychology from The University of Texas at Austin. After completing his dental degree at The University of Texas Health Science Center-Houston Dental Branch in 1993, he practiced general dentistry in Houston and served on the faculty at the Dental Branch prior to receiving his specialty training in pediatric dentistry at the Dental Branch and Hermann Children’s Hospital. Since earning his dental degree, he has been a member of and has served in leadership positions of the Greater Houston Dental Society, the Texas Dental Association and the American Dental Association. Dr. Vela also maintains active membership in the Houston Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and holds fellow status in the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.

Active in the community, Dr. Vela has offered numerous pediatric oral healthcare presentations to community groups, professional organizations and various healthcare professionals around the country with a special emphasis on pediatric dental trauma and pediatric abuse. In addition to expanding his knowledge of the art and science of dentistry by attending numerous continuing education courses, Dr. Vela maintains certifications in Basic Life Support (BLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) and holds a parenteral sedation permit from the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners. A staff member of Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston, Dr. Vela is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.

An avid Vespa rider, Dr. Vela also enjoys photography, scuba diving and both acoustic and electric guitar. He and his wife, Meredith, along with their three children, Gabrielle, Max and Gianna, reside with the family golden retriever, Ava.

Our

Testimonials

I can’t say enough good things about this dentist. They are so attentive to my son who has visited since he was 2 years old. They know our names when we come in and are so patient when my son is anxious about a cleaning. The whole staff is friendly and the dentists are available to share their knowledge and answer questions. They’ve also done a good job with COVID procedures, we felt very safe and distanced from others.

– Emily B. Taylor

Bellaire Pediatric Dentistry is the best kids’ dentist office in the Houston area! The staff are always warm and welcoming and keep our kids feeling comfortable and happy. Dentists are knowledgeable and experienced. I’m so glad we take our children here for their dental care!

– Kara Masharani

App available for both
iPhone and Android.

Ut wisi enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exerci tation ullamcorper suscipit lobortis nisl ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat.

Free App for iPhone
Free App for Android

App available for both iPhone and Android.

Apple Device

You can access all the critical information you need from Bellaire Pediatric Dentistry right in the palm of your hand! Download our FREE app for your iOS device directly from the App Store today!

Android Device

Put all the information and critical services you need from Bellaire Pediatric Dentistry right in the palm of your hand! Download our FREE app for your Android device from the Google Play Store today!

Want to Meet the Doctor?

Schedule an Appointment