MEET DR. LE MURPHEY
Clairemont
Dr. Le Murphey is passionate about dentistry. She enjoys the profession’s hands-on approach and the tangible and esthetic results it offers. She holds a degree from the University of the Pacific in San Francisco, where she valued the institution’s emphasis on innovation, technology, and a humanistic approach that respected both students and patients.
In her practice at Dental Express, Dr. Le Murphey most enjoys the relationships she forms with her patients and colleagues. Reflecting on her career highlights, she counts her tenure with Dental Express as particularly significant because of the positive and supportive environment. Outside of the office, Dr. Le Murphey is committed to humanitarian efforts, and she volunteers to provide dental care to underserved populations.
Why did you become a dentist?
I pursued a career in dentistry due to my affinity for hands-on work. I also appreciate engaging with patients, determining together what their end goals are, and collaborating on how best to achieve the care. Dentistry is a profoundly tangible profession, and I take great pride in utilizing all the knowledge I have gained in my career to make a meaningful impact on patients.
Where did you go to dental school?
University of the Pacific in San Francisco. The faculty genuinely cared, demonstrating pride in every aspect of the school—from the quality of materials used to the state of-the-art facilities, including a new dental building, to a rigorous clinical simulation lab curriculum. The professionalism they instilled in me is something I apply in my practice every day. The university’s commitment to innovative technology was complemented by their humanistic model of education that emphasized respect for students and patients alike. This mindful and equitable approach for all was a distinct and valued aspect of my education.
What is your favorite part of your dental practice?
My favorite part about Dental Express are the people! I love being with people who care about their work. We also have a great doctor support team, and I feel like I constantly being challenged. Everyone gets along inside and outside of the office, which makes it fun and translates to A+ quality patient care.
What are your passions outside of dentistry?
I really enjoy cooking foods of all different cultures. While I haven’t been able to cook as much since my daughter was born, I’m starting to dive back into it more frequently. My husband and I also enjoy exploring our beautiful San Diego community, particularly playgrounds and beaches for our toddler, restaurants, and seasonal outings.
How do you help cultivate the Dental Express team?
Our team is fantastic! We collaborate every day, especially when it comes to taking care of patients. To foster team building, we have regular potlucks, which brings everyone together! On the professional side, I strive to foster a strong work ethic among the team by leading by example. I always enjoy adding a touch of fun and some tasty treats throughout our day to keep spirits high and provide exceptional care.
What would you say is the highlight of your career?
Joining Dental Express! I love the supportive atmosphere and everyone’s great attitudes.
Of Dental Express’ five core values (integrity, empathy, adaptability, collaboration, and whistle while you work) which do you feel is the most valuable to you as a dentist?
It’s so hard because they are all great! My top choices would be whistle while you work and collaboration. This makes working with the team fun and efficient. From the patient side of things, I most value empathy and adaptability. That’s how you really help people. I love learning more about the patients I care for and getting to know them as people. Everyone’s situation is different, and I must think outside the box when creating treatment plans to best fit a patient’s desires and circumstances while still achieving a healthy and functional smile.
What is your greatest challenge working as a dentist?
My greatest challenge recently was getting back into doing endodontics. Root canal therapy is a procedure that requires great skill, attention to detail, meticulousness, and intuition; it can be rather intimidating. I was challenged to do more of these procedures because of the need in our community. It is such a wonderful service to be able to provide and is a routine procedure in my practice.
Who is your hero?
Humanitarianism has always been important to me, and my siblings and I all participated in various missions in our 20s. I spent a month on the US Navy Mercy Hospital ship as a civilian, helping communities in Cambodia and Thailand access dental care. In college, I managed the UCSD free clinics, running dental clinics in the evenings in church basements or trailers for undocumented and low-income patients. These experiences laid the foundation for my career in dentistry and hold a special place in my heart.
