About the Doctor

Dr. Lela, “New Braunfels’ Tooth Fairy”, was born and raised on a farm in Bay City, Texas, with her parents and older sister. As a young girl, she spent countless hours in her grandfather’s orthodontic office. She knew from a young age that she wanted to follow in his footsteps, practicing in the field of dentistry.

 Dr. Lela attended Austin College in Sherman, Texas, where she received her Bachelor of Arts Degree with a Major in Biology. She received her degree in dentistry at New York University College of Dentistry. After dental school, she spent two years at Staten Island University Hospital (SIUH) in Staten Island, New York, as a General Practice Resident. Dr. Lela served as Chief Resident in her second year. She completed her 2-year postgraduate education in Pediatric Dentistry at SIUH under the direction of Dr. Steven Schwartz, a pioneer in the specialty of Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Lela’s comprehensive training at SIUH makes her well trained in handling dental needs among patients of a wide range of ages and medical issues.

While at NYU College of Dentistry, she was invited to attend an Outreach Program in the Dominican Republic. There she provided much needed dental care to people who otherwise did not have access. Since finishing her pediatric training, she has been invited back by NYU to serve as faculty on their Outreach Programs to Nicaragua, Mexico, and Cambodia.

Dr. Lela met her best friend and husband, Dr. Prospero Matos, in dental school. They love spending time together cooking, traveling, and doting on their daughters, Amelia and Lydia, and furbaby, Potter.

At Smile Pediatric Dental Care, you might say a passion for dental health runs in the family. Dr. Lela Matthes Matos is married to the owner of Smile Advanced Dental Care, Dr. Prospero Matos, DDS. The “other” Dr. Matos specializes in adult dentistry and is conveniently located right next door. Between our two areas of specialty, our “family” of practices offers something for every member of yours. Please visit Smile Advanced Dental Care for more information on their services.