Our Passion Is Crafting Your Perfect Smile
MEET THE TEAM
Great dentistry starts with people you actually trust. Here's a closer look at the dentists behind every appointment at Marbella, and the philosophy that guides how we treat you and your family.
Meet Our Founder
DR. AARON K. JAMES, DDS
Dr. James grew up in Bridge City, a small town in Southeast Texas, where he studied chemistry and biology at Our Lady of the Lake University before earning his DDS from the University of Texas Dental School in San Antonio in 2007. He's practiced in the San Antonio area ever since, treating patients of every age and comfort level.
He's especially known for his chairside manner with nervous patients, many stay with him for years because of how at ease he makes them feel. Dr. James founded Marbella Dentistry around a simple standard: nothing gets recommended that he wouldn't recommend to his own family.
Meet the Team
OUR DENTISTS
Dr. Tian meng
Dr. Meng is a skilled general dentist with extensive training in both clinical care and research, having studied at UT Health San Antonio, Stanford University, Johns Hopkins University, Texas A&M Baylor College of Dentistry, and West China School of Dentistry. That breadth of training, he says, is what allows him to bring patients the best possible care. He holds a Fellowship and Mastership with the American Academy of Implant Prosthodontics and the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, and treats patients of every age with a steady, reassuring approach.
Dr. Ryan Byrne
Dr. Ryan Byrne earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Sam Houston State University before embarking on an adventurous chapter in Alaska. During his time there, he embraced the stunning Northern Lights, the Iditarod, and the beauty of long winters with temperatures reaching as low as -40°F.
Dr. Byrne then went on to complete his Doctorate of Dental Surgery at UT Health San Antonio School of Dentistry. His passion for dentistry is fueled by his love for hands-on work and the profound impact he can have on his patients’ lives. Outside of dentistry, Dr. Byrne enjoys spending time at dog parks with his husky, weight lifting, carpentry, kayaking, cooking, and watching shows with Gordon Ramsay.
Dr. Andrew Yoon
Dr. Yoon brings a unique blend of precision, discipline, and compassion to modern dentistry, shaped in part by an unconventional path: before pursuing dental school, he earned a degree in civil engineering, and that background still shows up in how he approaches complex restorative and cosmetic cases, with a careful eye for structure and detail. He completed his dental education at A.T. Still University School of Dentistry and Oral Health, and believes dentistry sits right at the intersection of science and artistry, aiming not just to improve oral health but to help patients feel more confident day to day. Patients consistently mention his meticulous approach and gentle chairside manner. Outside the office, he's often doing carpentry, out on the water, or on the pickleball court, and he's fluent in both English and Mandarin.
Dr. Nick Richards
Dr. Richards grew up in the Rio Grande Valley before heading to San Antonio to pursue dentistry, first earning his undergraduate degree from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley in 2016, then his Doctor of Dental Surgery from UT Health San Antonio School of Dentistry in 2020. He's called San Antonio home ever since, and brings a particular interest in cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, and minor oral surgery to the Marbella team, always with an eye toward keeping care comfortable and tailored to each patient. When he's not in the office, you'll likely find him on the pickleball court, the golf course, or out for a run, he's fluent in English and semi-fluent in Spanish, and he still holds the distinction of being the youngest student in his dental school class.
Common Questions
MEET THE TEAM FAQS
How do I choose the right dentist for my family?
Look for a team that takes time to explain things, treats every age group, and makes you feel comfortable asking questions. That's exactly what we aim for with every dentist at Marbella.
Do I need to see the same dentist every visit?
Not necessarily. Our whole team works from the same patient-first philosophy, so you're in good hands no matter who you see, though we're happy to help you find a dentist you especially connect with.
Is Dr. James still taking new patients?
Yes. As founder, Dr. James still sees patients directly, alongside the rest of our team.
What should I expect at my first visit?
A real conversation first, then a thorough exam. We'll walk you through what we see and what we'd recommend, no pressure, no jargon.
Do your dentists treat children?
Yes. Our team treats patients of every age, from a child's first tooth through adulthood.
How can I request a specific dentist for my appointment?
Just let us know when you call to schedule, and we'll do our best to accommodate your preference.
