Lora Lopez
Originally from Mountainair, New Mexico, Lora Lopez has spent more than two decades growing alongside Gilbert Orthodontic Laboratory — from the orthodontic chairside to the lab bench, and now as the lab's sole owner and CEO.
Established in 1973
Gilbert Orthodontic Laboratory was founded in 1973 and has grown into the only full-service orthodontic lab in New Mexico. We invest in digital design and modern materials, but the finished work still happens by hand. For more than 50 years, practices across the state have relied on us for retainers, aligners, expanders, and custom appliances — all fabricated in-house by dedicated technicians.
1973
year founded
50+
years of service
1 of 1
full-service orthodontic lab in NM
In-house
fabrication & quality control
From Mountainair to Gilbert Lab
- 2000
Start in orthodontics
Lora Lopez began her journey in the dental field, joining the esteemed orthodontic practice of Drs. Prohaska and Buttner.
- 2005
Licensed & certified
After graduating from Pima Medical Institute, she earned her NM Board of Dental Assisting License and DANB Radiography License.
- 2007
Lab technician
Lora joined Gilbert Orthodontic Laboratory as a lab technician, working closely alongside then-owner Bruce Gilbert.
- 2022
Owner & CEO
Lora assumed sole ownership of Gilbert Orthodontic Laboratory, bringing decades of hands-on experience to the helm.
Ryan Hidalgo
Ryan, son of Lora, graduated from Albuquerque Academy in 2022 and earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Management and Finance from Grand Canyon University in 2026. He has been part of the Gilbert Orthodontic Laboratory team since 2024, where he serves as account manager for practices across New Mexico.
As account manager, Ryan is the direct line between your practice and our bench. He onboards new offices, keeps case communication clear, and makes sure every prescription, pickup, and delivery stays on schedule.
Practice relationships
Primary point of contact for doctors and staff, from onboarding through day-to-day case questions.
Case coordination
Tracks prescriptions, due dates, and turnaround so cases arrive when the appointment needs them.
Pickup & delivery
Coordinates local courier routes and shipping across the Albuquerque Metro and surrounding areas.
Billing & accounts
Handles invoices, monthly statements, and account questions so billing stays simple and transparent.
“Welcome to Gilbert Orthodontic Laboratory! I'm delighted to extend a warm greeting as you join our ortho family. With our dedication to precision and innovation, we're committed to providing top-notch orthodontic solutions. Let's achieve beautiful smiles together! Feel free to reach out anytime.