About

Compassionate Dentistry, Close to Home

Our Mission

At Be Well Dental, we believe great dental care begins with genuine connection. As a community-focused practice in Santee, we offer modern, evidence-based dentistry in a compassionate and approachable setting. With advanced technologies and a values-driven team, we’re here to deliver expert care with honesty and heart—no fluff, just real care that lasts a lifetime.

Advanced Skills and Authentic Care

Dr. Dustin McCafferty

Dr. Dustin McCafferty brings precision, passion, and a people-first approach to every aspect of his care. Originally from the Phoenix area, Dr. McCafferty was inspired to pursue dentistry by a trusted orthodontist family friend who showed him the power of steady hands and a warm heart. That spark led him to earn his Bachelor of Science in Health Science from Arizona State University before continuing on to complete his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree at NYU College of Dentistry—one of the nation's most renowned dental programs.

Known for his skill in surgical and restorative dentistry, Dr. McCafferty completed advanced implant training and is now a proud Fellow of Implant Pathway. He takes pride in bringing cutting-edge solutions like CBCT-guided implants and laser-assisted treatments to everyday families, delivering clinical excellence in a comfortable and familiar environment. Whether restoring smiles with precision or planning Invisalign treatments for optimal long-term outcomes, his priority is long-lasting results and genuine relationships with patients.

Dr. McCafferty strongly believes in patient education and transparency. He takes time to explain treatment options in straightforward language, empowering patients to make informed choices about their oral health. His honest and judgment-free demeanor builds trust with everyone—whether you’re visiting for the first time or have been a patient for years.

At Be Well Dental, he blends modern tools with a neighborhood feel. Patients often say they feel "heard and not rushed," thanks to his approachable nature and steady guidance. And with technology like 3D-printed surgical guides and digital scanning, his treatments are not only efficient—they’re customized to your life.

When he's not caring for patients, Dr. McCafferty enjoys spending time at the beach with his wife and son, perfecting his grilling skills, and sneaking in a round of golf when he can. He feels honored to serve the Santee and El Cajon communities and looks forward to being your trusted partner in health, wellness, and confident smiles.

40+ Years of Exceptional Care

Dr. Anthony Cardoza

With over three decades of experience, Dr. Anthony Cardoza brings a depth of knowledge and a steady, compassionate presence to every patient interaction. A 1985 graduate of Northwestern University Dental School, Dr. Cardoza has proudly served the Santee community for decades—offering comprehensive general dentistry for patients of all ages with a special focus on comfort, clarity, and long-term health.

Dr. Cardoza is highly skilled in a wide range of procedures, including root canals, extractions, and periodontal treatments—services that are often referred out at other offices. His broad expertise and calm demeanor make it easy for patients to feel at ease, especially when facing more complex dental needs. As a Fellow in the World Class Laser Institute, he also brings the benefits of laser dentistry to his patients, offering minimally invasive care with faster healing and less discomfort.

In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Cardoza is a respected forensic dental consultant, working with agencies such as the San Diego County Medical Examiner, California Department of Justice, and CalEMA. He is the Director of the California Dental Identification Team (CalDIT) and has assisted in high-profile disaster victim identifications throughout the region. His experience in this field speaks to his meticulous attention to detail and unwavering dedication to public service.

Known for his thoughtful care and strong community roots, Dr. Cardoza continues to be a trusted provider for families across East County. Whether he’s solving a complex case or simply helping a patient feel more confident in their smile, he leads with humility, experience, and heart.

Meet the Heart Behind Our Practice

A Friendly, Skilled Team That Feels Like Family

At Be Well Dental, our team is more than just experienced—they’re compassionate, down-to-earth, and passionate about helping patients feel at home. From your first phone call to your follow-up visit, our staff works together to create a smooth, stress-free experience guided by empathy and education.

What to Expect at Your First Visit

Putting Comfort, Clarity, and Care First

We know visiting a new dentist can feel uncertain—so we do everything we can to make your first experience smooth and supportive. From greeting you by name to taking time to understand your goals, we’re here to build trust and ensure you feel heard.

During your first appointment, you'll receive a thorough exam, digital X-rays, and an open conversation about your dental goals and any concerns. We focus on personalized care—no pressure, no rush, and no surprises when it comes to treatment planning or costs.

What to Bring

Please bring the following to your first appointment:

Valid photo ID

Insurance card (if applicable)

List of current medications/allergies

Any previous dental records you'd like us to review

Advanced Technology & Comfortable Amenities

Our office features modern technology carefully chosen to improve outcomes and streamline your dental visits. From faster, more accurate diagnostics to minimally invasive treatments, our tools allow us to deliver more effective and efficient care.  

Fotona All-Tissue Laser

Digital X-Rays

Intraoral Scanners

3D CBCT

3D-Printed Surgical Guides

Giving Back to the Communities We Serve

Investing in Smiles On and Off the Field

We’re committed to protecting healthy smiles both in and out of the office. Be Well Dental is proud to support local student-athletes through our partnership with West Hills High School Athletics. As we grow, we’re excited to expand our involvement throughout Santee—because giving back is what keeps our community strong and smiling.

Honest Dentistry. Healthy Smiles

Schedule an Appointment Today