Irene Mangacu, CRNA

Irene Mangacu, CRNA, was born in the Philippines and moved to Southern California with her family at the age of twelve. She began her nursing career in 2007 in the post-anesthesia care unit, later advancing to the intensive care unit where she cared for critically ill patients from 2010 to 2013. Her passion for anesthesia led her to pursue advanced training, and she earned her certification as a nurse anesthetist (CRNA) in 2015 from Samuel Merritt University in Oakland. Since then, Irene has specialized in providing anesthesia for both pediatric and adult patients in outpatient and dental settings. She became a integral member of Peninsula Oral and Facial Surgery in 2024, where her presence elevates our ability to deliver specialized, patient-centered care, keeping even our youngest patients safe and comfortable.

Providing anesthesia in the dental setting—particularly for pediatric patients—requires a specialized approach that balances safety, comfort, and surgical efficiency. Irene Mangacu, CRNA, brings a wealth of experience to this delicate task, working in close collaboration with the oral and maxillofacial surgeons at Peninsula Oral and Facial Surgery. Their shared background in anesthesia training fosters a deep clinical understanding that enhances communication and coordination in every case. This strong partnership allows for real-time decision-making and careful planning, ensuring each patient receives individualized anesthesia care that aligns with the surgical goals and the patient's specific medical needs.

Unlike many practices that rely on rotating anesthesia providers, Irene is a fixture of our team. That consistency — and the strong rapport between her and our surgical team — leads to better communication, better coordination, and ultimately, safer care.

At Peninsula Oral and Facial Surgery, we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety in every aspect of our practice, especially when caring for pediatric patients. We strictly adhere to California’s most rigorous guidelines for dental anesthesia, including those set forth by the Dental Board of California for deep sedation and general anesthesia in outpatient settings. With Irene’s expertise and our team’s dedication to continuous training and compliance, families can trust that their child is in the safest hands possible—from preoperative evaluation through recovery. This commitment to excellence is at the heart of the care we provide every day.