Finding a place where she felt cared for wasn’t always easy, but for Alicia Frontanez, the journey led her here. Originally from El Salvador, she has been a dental patient at East 3rd St. since 2015, receiving care that has made a lasting impact on both her health and her life.
“I have never had an issue with the clinic,” she said. “From the very beginning, I knew I was in the right place.”
Managing her health hasn’t always been easy, but the clinic has helped her through therapy, referrals, and authorizations that have made a real difference. Whether it was connecting her with the right specialists or making sure her treatments stayed on track, she never felt like she had to navigate the system alone.
“They have helped me so much,” she shared. “It’s not just about medical visits. Whether it’s therapy, referrals, or making sure I have everything I need, I know I can count on them.”
The care Alicia has received hasn’t just been for her—it has also extended to her son, who has special needs. From authorizations to every single visit, she has always felt like the clinic was there for both of them. The reassurance of knowing that her son is also in good hands has made all the difference.
Over the years, she has built strong relationships with the staff, but one person in particular stands out—Miriam, a dental assistant at East 3rd St.. Following Miriam’s guidance for her dental care has been an important part of her journey, but Alicia is quick to say that it’s not just one person—it’s the entire team.
“Besides Miriam, I appreciate every single person I have come across,” she said. “They are all a blessing in my life. I feel heard, like people actually care about me.”
She describes the staff as “number 10, the best, above and beyond.” Words don’t quite capture how much the care means to her, but she knows one thing for sure: the support she has received has changed her life.
“No words can express the service you guys provide,” she said. “You are all going above and beyond.”
For Alicia, East 3rd St. Dental is a place where she feels supported, valued, and listened to. Her experience is a reminder that healthcare is more than just medicine—it’s about connection, trust, and knowing that someone will be there when it matters most.
Story Seeker: Health Advocate Karina Flores for Echo Park