Your Trusted Dental Clinic In Coquitlam

About Elemental

Dr. Benjamin Ta

Principal Dentist

Elemental Dental has been serving the community as Dr. John Crivici Inc for 30+ years. Dr. Benjamin Ta (Dr. Ben) has been serving patients as an associate at the clinic since 2022. In February of 2025, Dr. Ben acquired the practice from Dr. Crivici and rebranded to Elemental Dental. Dr. Ben is committed to ensuring the transition is as smooth as possible, and strives to ensure that patients of Elemental Dental experience the best dental care possible.

Dr. Ben earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of British Columbia and has been serving patients in private practice ever since. His approach to dentistry emphasizes education, prevention, and empowering individuals to take control of their oral health through clear communication and personalized care plans.

Before pursuing dentistry, Dr. Ben completed a Bachelor of Kinesiology at UBC and a Diploma in Human Kinetics from Capilano University—all while competing as a varsity volleyball athlete for five years. His lifelong involvement in sports has shaped his leadership and teaching style, both in and out of the clinic.

A passionate coach and mentor, Dr. Ben has been part of Simon Fraser University’s varsity women’s volleyball coaching staff for over seven years and has also held assistant coaching roles with Capilano University’s men’s and women’s teams. He has coached with provincial and national programs including Team British Columbia and Team Canada, and continues to work with youth and adult volleyball camps and clinics.

Dr. Ben brings the same commitment to excellence and mentorship from the court into his dental practice—striving to guide each patient like a coach would an athlete: with trust, support, and a focus on long-term success.

Dr. Ben firmly believes that exceptional dental care is a team effort. He is proud to work alongside a skilled and compassionate team that includes Lea, a dedicated dental hygienist, and Dee, a multi-talented dental assistant and receptionist. Their expertise and commitment ensure the clinic runs efficiently and patients feel supported every step of the way.

With the strength of this collaborative team, Dr. Ben is able to devote meaningful time to each patient—building genuine relationships and understanding their unique needs and goals. This personalized approach allows him to help every individual take confident steps toward achieving and maintaining optimal oral health.

Our Team

Dee Veltri

Certified Dental Assistant

With 25+ years of experience as a Certified Dental Assistant, I am dedicated to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for every patient. Throughout my career, I have developed strong skills in patient care, chairside assistance and team collaboration, striving to ensure comfort and confidence during dental visits. My passion for dentistry comes from helping people improve their health and smiles. Outside of work, I’m a proud mom to my daughter who loves baseball. I never miss the chance to cheer her on from the stands.

Lea Howes

Registered Dental Hygienist

Lea has been serving the community for 25+ years as a Registered Dental Hygienist and will be retiring at the end of 2025.