Welcome to First Wave Dental

Meet Dr. Nina Bubalo

At First Wave Dental, your smile is in the skilled and compassionate hands of Dr. Nina Bubalo. A graduate of the prestigious USC School of Dentistry, Dr. Bubalo has a lifelong passion for dentistry that began with a family friend who inspired her to pursue the field. Born in the former Yugoslavia and raised in the Bay Area, she brings a diverse, empathetic perspective to her practice and has always been drawn to the artistic, hands-on nature of dentistry.

Dr. Bubalo finds joy in transforming smiles and seeing immediate, visible results. Focusing in cosmetic dentistry, she’s committed to providing high-quality care and building enduring relationships with patients across generations. Her favorite part of the job? Taking her time with each patient to ensure a personalized, unrushed experience with meaningful outcomes.

A Caring Team and a Relaxing Environment

From the moment you walk through the doors, the First Wave Dental team ensures that you feel welcome, heard, and cared for. Dental assistants Christina and Joanna, hygienists Sharyn and Katrina, and front office coordinators Emanuela and Jasmine work seamlessly together to create a smooth, comfortable visit every time. Everyone on the team shares a commitment to personalized care and building lasting patient relationships.

The office itself embraces a calm, beachy vibe, complete with wave-inspired decor, bamboo chairs, and soothing sounds that transport you beyond the waiting room. To help you truly relax during your visit, blankets, neck pillows, headphones, and even chapstick are available to make your experience as comfortable as possible.

Cutting-Edge Dental Services in a Familiar, Feel-Good Space

At First Wave Dental, we blend advanced technology with a warm, family-oriented approach. Whether you're looking for same-day crowns using CEREC technology, Invisalign treatment, cosmetic bonding, or veneers, Dr. Bubalo and her team are equipped to deliver stunning results with a personal touch. We also focus on implant restorations with high-quality Straumann materials, ideal for those restoring single-tooth implants or maintaining implant health.

What sets First Wave Dental apart is our combination of modern care and an “old-school” dental feel—think long-term patients, multi-generational families, and a provider who truly knows you. If you're in San Diego’s Hillcrest, Mission Hills, Bankers Hill, North Park, or surrounding neighborhoods, and you're seeking a dentist who sees you as more than a set of teeth, we’re here for you.

Let’s Make Your First Visit to First Wave Dental a Great One

Your smile deserves more than rushed appointments and cookie-cutter care. At First Wave Dental, Dr. Nina Bubalo and her dedicated team provide high-quality, one-on-one dentistry with a focus on lasting results and relationships. Located in the heart of San Diego, our practice proudly serves the communities of Hillcrest, Mission Hills, Bankers Hill, Midtown, and North Park. Ready for an elevated dental experience? Call us at (619) 232-1005 to schedule your visit today.