Our Dentists in Alexandria, VA

Dr. Carla Leon, DDS, is an experienced general dentist with a particular passion for restorative dentistry and helping patients regain healthy, confident smiles. Originally from Peru, she has been practicing dentistry since 2002 and has been part of Telegraph Dentists since 2006, becoming the practice owner in 2024.

Dr. Leon earned her dental degree from Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia in Lima, Peru, in 2001. She continued her education in the United States, completing a one-year Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) program at Louisiana State University School of Dentistry, followed by two additional years of AEGD training at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry.

Committed to continued professional development, Dr. Leon regularly participates in continuing education, including advanced restorative dentistry training and courses through the Pankey Institute.

Extensive Experience in Restorative Dentistry

Restoring damaged and missing teeth is one of Dr. Leon’s greatest professional interests. Her passion for dentistry began with a desire to help people who had lost their teeth regain their smiles, confidence and quality of life.

Throughout her career, she has developed substantial experience in restorative procedures, including:

• Dental Crowns: More than 1,260 dental crowns placed, including treatment for damaged, weakened and extensively restored teeth.
• Dental Bridges: Over 154 dental bridges completed, including complex restorative cases involving multiple teeth.
• Dentures: More than 300 complete and partial denture cases, helping patients restore chewing function and achieve natural-looking smiles.
• Dental Implant Restorations: Over 200 implant restorations completed, including implant crowns and implant-supported bridges and dentures. Dr. Leon provides the restorative phase of treatment, while the practice’s in-house periodontist performs implant placement.

Dr. Leon also provides other general and restorative treatments, including root canal therapy for appropriate cases and Zoom teeth whitening.

Her experience with complex restorative cases allows her to evaluate different treatment options and develop individualized plans based on each patient’s dental health, functional needs and personal goals.

A Thoughtful, Patient-Centered Approach

Dr. Leon believes that excellent dentistry begins with listening.

She takes time to understand each patient’s concerns, previous dental experiences and expectations before recommending treatment. Her philosophy emphasizes careful planning, precision and attention to detail rather than rushing through procedures.

For patients who have avoided dental care because of anxiety or previous negative experiences, Dr. Leon focuses on building trust and creating a comfortable, respectful environment.

She understands that some patients need additional time to feel confident about treatment decisions and believes that patients should never feel pressured into unnecessary procedures.

When providing dentures and other restorative treatments, she works closely with patients to understand their expectations for appearance and comfort. When appropriate, she may even coordinate directly with dental laboratory technicians to help achieve the desired result.

Her goal is to provide high-quality dental care that supports lasting oral health while helping patients feel heard, informed and confident in their smiles.

Continuing Education and Professional Development

Dr. Leon believes that ongoing education is essential to providing modern, effective dental care.

In addition to her postgraduate AEGD training, she regularly participates in continuing education, completing more than 20 hours annually.

Her additional education includes restorative dentistry, implant restorations, removable prosthetics and training through the Pankey Institute.

She applies this knowledge to her clinical practice, incorporating technologies such as digital impressions and intraoral scanning when appropriate to support precise restorative treatment.

Outside the Office

Dr. Leon is married and has three active boys who keep her busy outside the office.

In her free time, she enjoys outdoor activities, going to the gym and watching movies at the theater.

She values the relationships she has developed with patients throughout her years at Telegraph Dentists and enjoys helping individuals and families maintain healthy smiles through every stage of life.

Creating Confident Smiles with Care and Expertise

Dr. Rochelle Watson is a dedicated and passionate orthodontist committed to helping her patients achieve healthy, confident smiles. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of the West Indies School of Dentistry and completed her specialty training in Orthodontics at Howard University College of Dentistry. Dr. Watson is Board Certified by the American Board of Orthodontics and currently serves as an Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Orthodontics Department at Howard University and as a Lecturer at the University of Technology, College of Oral Health Sciences.

She brings a diverse range of clinical experience from practicing in the State of Virginia and Kingston, Jamaica. She is an active member of several professional organizations, including the American Association of Orthodontists®, Southern Association of Orthodontists, American Dental Association® and the Jamaica Dental Association. Dr. Watson was honored with an Outstanding Service Award from the Howard University Orthodontics Department in recognition of her meaningful contributions and commitment to the program.

In addition to her clinical and academic roles, she has a deep passion for the performing arts and is the author of Kiddie’s Learn to Write Workbook. Outside of work, she enjoys playing the guitar, singing, cooking and spending quality time with her family and friends.

Dr. Watson looks forward to helping you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted — with personalized care and a friendly, supportive atmosphere.