Dr. Mel graduated from St. Louis University School of Dentistry in 1970 after having received a bachelor’s degree in chemistry. Following 2 ½ years of service in the Army Dental Corps at Fort Dix, NJ he moved to Lakewood to join his brother, Dr. Ben, in private practice. Together, along with the late Dr. Ralph Aasheim, they started Green Mountain Dental Group in 1974.
Dr. Mel has been married for over 40 years and has 3 married sons (including Dr. Steve), and 7 grandchildren. He is still active in softball and enjoys sports, travel and history.
Benedict O. Vanek Jr., DDS
Dr. Ben Jr. attended Colorado State University from 1986 – 1990 where he received his degree in biological sciences. He then graduated from the University of Colorado School of Dentistry in 1994 and joined Green Mountain Dental Group that same year. Dr. Ben Jr. is also a member of the Academy of General Dentistry, American Orthodontic Society, American Dental Association, Colorado Dental Association and the Metro Denver Dental Society.
Dr. Ben Jr. is a native of Colorado and enjoys living in the Green Mountain area with his 4 children. His interests are golf, skiing, hiking and biking.
Steven J. Vanek, DDS
Dr. Steve was born and raised in the Green Mountain area. He attended Regis Jesuit High School. In 1997, he graduated from Colorado State University with a Bachelors Degree in Biology and a minor in Anatomy & Neurobiology. He graduated from Creighton University School of Dentistry in Omaha, NE in 2003. Dr. Vanek then joined his father (Dr. Mel), uncle and cousin in practice at Green Mountain Dental Group. Dr. Steve is a member of the International Association of Orthodontics, American Dental Association, Colorado Dental Association and the Metro Denver Dental Society.
Dr. Steve and his wife have a son, a daughter and a golden retriever. They reside in Lakewood and are members of Christ on the Mountain Church in Lakewood. His interests include sports, travel and hikes/walks with his family and dog. He is a coach for Green Mountain Jr. baseball and supporter of local schools.
