A Spanish-Speaking Orthodontist in Carlsbad & Hobbs, New Mexico

Meet Dr. Carla Coelho, DMD

Early Life & Background

I was born and raised in São Luís, Brazil, an island city in the Northeast with strong European influences, shaped largely by Portuguese colonization.

Education

I graduated second in my dental school class in São Luís in 2008. After working as a general practitioner for two years, I decided to pursue my specialty training in Orthodontics (2011–2013).

During that period, I joined the orthodontic practice of my husband and father-in-law, both well-established orthodontists, and I was fortunate to learn from their experience and mentorship.

I also served as clinical faculty for six years with the Brazilian Dental Association’s Orthodontics Program, mentoring residents and supervising clinical care.

Further Experience

In 2017, my husband Fabio and I moved to the United States, starting in Orlando. We lived there for three years while preparing for dental boards and applying to dental programs. During that time, I completed a two-year Associate in Arts program in Biomedical Sciences at Valencia College, where I was recognized for academic performance.

Foundation for Excellence

That educational foundation played an important role in my acceptance into Boston University’s competitive Advanced Standing Program for International Dentists. In 2021, I began the two-year program and earned my Doctor of Dental Medicine degree with honors.
Although the journey to reestablish myself as a dentist in the U.S. required years of focused work, my true passion has always been Orthodontics. In 2023, my husband and I were accepted into a three-year orthodontic residency program to become licensed orthodontists in the United States.

Additional Accomplishments

During residency, I’ve had meaningful opportunities to contribute to the wire-bending curriculum, support the over-treatment patients clinic, and participate in research. Most importantly, I’ve built friendships and professional relationships that I know will stay with me for life.

Outside the Office

Outside of dentistry, I enjoy cooking Brazilian food, exploring coffee shops, traveling, listening to good music, and watching classic movies.