Compassionate Care, Close to Home

At West Jackson Family Dental, we believe dentistry should feel different - more personal, more caring, and deeply connected to the community we call home. Proudly serving families across Jackson County and beyond, we’ve created a practice where comfort, trust, and excellence go hand-in-hand.

Led by Dr. Melina Gable, a Georgia-raised, bilingual (Spanish and English) dentist with a heart for service and a passion for ethical care, our practice was built to reflect her vision: patient-first dentistry rooted in integrity, community outreach, and clinical excellence. From pediatric visits to advanced dental procedures, our team ensures every patient feels heard, valued, and genuinely cared for.

What sets us apart? Our extraordinary team. From Dr. Avendano’s calm, patient-centered approach and advanced surgical training, to a hygiene and assistant team known for their warmth, expertise, and long-standing local roots, every member of West Jackson Family Dental brings something unique to your visit. Together, we create a welcoming space where families grow healthy smiles and lasting relationships.

We’re not just your neighborhood dental team, we’re your neighbors. Let’s make your next dental experience one you’ll actually look forward to.

Ready to experience compassionate, gentle dental care close to home?
Schedule your visit today with a trusted family dentist in Jackson County.

Meet Our West Jackson Team

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Dr. Melina Gable

From a young age, I knew I wanted to be a dentist. As an Army brat, I actually enjoyed going to the dentist—maybe it was the treasure box at the end of each visit! My family moved to Georgia in 1989, first to Augusta, then to Fayette County in Metro Atlanta. I earned a Bachelor's degree in Biology from Clayton State University, all while performing in Georgia Tech’s marching band as a trumpet player and Co-Captain of the Colorguard (though clarinet was my first instrument). I remain a loyal Yellow Jackets fan!

After a post-baccalaureate summer program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, I went on to complete my Master’s in Biomedical Science and Doctorate of Dental Medicine at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. In 2010, I returned through what I believe was divine guidance. After discovering that corporate dentistry didn’t align with my ethical standards, I sought something better for my patients and for myself.

In 2012, I began transitioning Braselton Family Dentistry into what is now West Jackson Family Dental. We moved into our current building in 2016, with plans to expand again in 2025.

I'm a proud member of the American Dental Association and the Georgia Dental Association. I continuously pursue education to provide the best materials and techniques for my patients. My passion for service extends beyond the office. I'm active at 12Stone Church Jackson County, where I lead a women's small group. As a bilingual dentist, I’ve used my Spanish-speaking skills to serve on missions locally and abroad, including with Team Smile, Georgia Baptist Mobile Mission, and Give Kids a Smile. I also organized our local “Smile Forward” event, providing discounted care with proceeds benefiting Jackson County charities.

I live in Jefferson with my husband, son, and two long-haired dachshunds. My rare free time is spent with my family at sporting events, traveling, and being outdoors. I am grateful to God for making all this possible and allowing me to serve others with compassion.

    • Bachelor of Science in Biology
      Clayton State University

    • Post-Baccalaureate Summer Program
      University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

    • Master’s in Biomedical Science
      University of Mississippi Medical Center

    • Doctorate of Dental Medicine
      University of Mississippi Medical Center

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Dr. Avendano

Affectionately known as Dr. “A,” Dr. Avendano is a warm, highly skilled dentist who brings both compassion and clinical expertise to West Jackson Family Dental. Born and raised in Chicago, IL, she relocated to Georgia in 2016 and has proudly called it home ever since. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 2009 and completed a post-graduate residency in Advanced General Dentistry in Kansas, where she received advanced training in oral surgery and prosthodontics.

Dr. A is passionate about every aspect of dentistry, with a particular focus on pediatric care, oral surgery, and preventive health. Her approach is deeply personal. She takes the time to understand each patient's needs and concerns, building long-term relationships rooted in trust and comfort. Whether she is guiding children through their first visits or performing complex procedures, her calm and gentle manner helps every patient feel safe and cared for.

Fluent in both English and Spanish, Dr. A is committed to providing inclusive care to a diverse community of patients. Her bilingual abilities allow her to communicate clearly and compassionately with Spanish-speaking families, ensuring every patient receives personalized attention and feels fully understood.

Her dedication to service extends beyond the office. Dr. A volunteers her time at a free clinic in Gainesville, where she also mentors Medical College of Georgia students. She is actively involved in her local church, serving as both a children’s Bible school teacher and a member of the hospitality team.

At home, Dr. A enjoys life with her husband, their playful Jack Russell named Jack, and their sister pup Bailey. She spends her weekends hiking, biking, and making memories with family. Dr. A is honored to be part of the West Jackson Family Dental team and to serve her community with care and integrity.

    • Bachelor of Science
      University of Illinois-Chicago

    • Doctor of Dental Surgery
      University Illinois-Chicago

    • Post Doctorate Advanced Education in General Dentistry
      Wichita State University

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Our Hygiene Team

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Our Dental Assistants

Our dental assistant team is made up entirely of certified Dental Assistants with Expanded Duty Certification, ensuring every patient receives skilled, high-quality care at every visit. From chairside support to patient education, they bring advanced training and a compassionate touch to every appointment.

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Our Administrative Team

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