Dr. Shanthi Cariappa was born and raised in Cincinnati, OH. It was a dream of hers to become a dentist at a young age and she wasted no time in pursuing these goals. Dr. Cariappa earned her Bachelor of Science from Adelphi University, and graduated in 2014 from The Ohio State College of Dentistry. Since graduating, she has enjoyed being an associate in private practice in Rhode Island and is ecstatic begin her dream of having her own dental practice.
While in dental school, Dr. Cariappa was drawn toward the cosmetic and prosthetic aspects of dentistry and has committed to expanding her knowledge and education since. She has taken extensive continuing education courses not only in cosmetic dentistry, but also in sleep apnea screening and treatment, full mouth rehabilitation, esthetic removable prosthesis, dental anxiety treatments, and many more. Her goal is to provide the most comprehensive dental care to treat the whole patient not just teeth.
Dr. Cariappa is a proud member of the American Dental Academy, the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. Dr. Cariappa is proud to be one of the few diplomates of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine in the region. Being an active member of these organizations is important to her as it is her commitment to her patients to always continue to learn and grow, and to always be at the forefront of the ever-changing dental field.
Dr. Malesra grew up in Rhode Island and then completed his undergraduate studies in biopsychology at Boston College. He returned to Boston to attend the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, where he earned his DMD degree. While there, he was on the Deans List and was cited for high performance on the National Board Dental Examinations.
The demanding curriculum included didactic and clinical experience in all facets of dentistry, including fixed and removable prosthodontics, oral surgery, endodontics, cosmetic dentistry, and implants. As a resident at one of the largest Level-1 Trauma Centers in New York, Dr. Malesra received extensive training in maxillofacial trauma and dentoalveolar surgery. Rotations throughout the hospital and dental clinics included training in oral sedation and anesthesia.
Dr. Malesra returned to Rhode Island and has practiced general dentistry here since 2012. As a clinician, he enjoys providing comprehensive care to improve the dental and overall health of his patients. One of his objectives is to bring in emerging and innovative technologies to improve the quality of care and patient experience he can provide. He is a member of the Rhode Island Dental Association, the American Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry, where he is currently pursuing his Fellowship status. When not at the office, Dr. Malesra enjoys spending time with his wife and son on their small farm and apiary.
Dr. Meaghan McCauley grew-up in Central Massachusetts and then attended Providence College where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree. She went on to graduate from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in 2017, and then expanded her dental training at Westchester Medical Center in New York. Since residency, she decided circle back and call Rhode Island home and has been working as an associate in private practice. She is very excited to be joining an amazing team at Frenchtown and Stonington Dental Associates.
Dr. McCauley is committed to expanding her knowledge and education in dentistry. She has taken continuing education courses in cosmetic and surgical dentistry, Botox cosmetics and Invisalign. Dr. McCauley is a member of the American Dental Academy and Rhode Island Dental Association.Her goal is to stay up to date on the best dental treatments available and to provide comprehensive whole patient dental care.
Reviews
Rating 4.7 out of 5 based on 18 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestDavid Gagnon
a year ago
What an amazing group! Each time I visit their practice I receive the same consistent and professional dental care. Ariana is an amazing hygienist and Dr Malesra has a gentle demeanor. He is knowledgable and understanding and always makes me feel comfortable on every visit.
Deb Callahan
2 years ago
Always professional and caring. What a welcoming team. I always know they have my best interests in mind.
Jillian Butler
2 years ago
Branch Village Dental provides top notch service every time! Linda has been my hygienist for a while and I love her! She takes an actual interest in me and my life and is genuinely engaged in our relationship (even though we only see each other every 6 months!). The staff there are always super friendly and attentive, and actually take the time to explain things to you in a way that you can understand. I never feel like I'm getting in trouble (which I know some dentists can make it seem!), instead I feel like I'm working in partnership with the team there to improve my dental health.
Kevin Appel
2 years ago
A very satisfactory experience
Katie Pearson
2 years ago
Branch Village is the best! I absolutely love all of their staff. Especially Linda, my hygienist. I actually look forward to my appointment. Her personality is the absolute best. She greets you with a smile and is fantastic at making you feel at ease. She talks you through all the steps necessary to take the best possible care of your teeth and gums. Her knowledge and experience is top notch. Thank you Linda and staff at Branch Village. You always go out of your way to make your patients feel at ease and comfortable. You always answer all my questions and you take time to listen. Thank you for always providing a great experience. Looking forward to my next appointment!
Michele Blanchard
2 years ago
Branch Dental is fantastic- from the front office staff - Catherine who is friendly, welcoming and professional to Linda, the hardworking, detail oriented, best dental hygienist and oral health educator who cares for my teeth as if they were her own, to Dr Malesra who is knowledgeable, caring, and is an exemplary communicator. I moved 8 years ago out of the area but, I continue to drive 80 minutes for my appointments to Branch Dental because they are the best in the business.
Leah Johnson
2 years ago
While I don't think anyone enjoys going to the dentist, they really do make it as pleasant an experience as possible. I hadn't been to a dentist in years, so I've had a large amount of appointments in the last year, and each time the dentist and all of the hygienists have been wonderful. Very much recommend them if you're looking for a new dentist!
Sandra Peterson
2 years ago
Very welcoming staff that treat you professionally and efficiently. Highly recommend their services!
Melinda Hopkins
2 years ago
If anyone is looking for a new dentist, I highly recommend Branch Village! They are all so great! I had my first filling in over 25 years and I did not feel a thing! The whole staff is wonderful!!
Georgette Ducharme
2 years ago
Friendly atmosphere and continuity of the best dental care with my proactive, long time meticulous hygienist Linda. My dentist is also extremely nice, gentle & thorough & doesn't hurt.
Elaine Scungio
2 years ago
Amazing! I had my cleaning yesterday with Arianna. She is very professional and caring. The staff is extremely friendly and helpful! I felt at ease and well taken care of the whole time. I would recommend Branch Village Dental Associates.
David Imondi
2 years ago
We switched from Aspen after serious issues. My crown broke since they put it too high, and I was cutting my tongue unable to eat and sleep properly. It was hell. I called and left a message and they got me in, in a few days which I was grateful for. They grinded it down, and mentioned ins. only covers 1 crown every 5 years. I have BCBS of RI. I decided to wait to fix it since the issue was gone. 4 stars because the place is too small for the workers to function adequately and wait times can be long, looks like somethings need updating but friendly and professional.
William Yasick
2 years ago
Linda, as always. Was fantastic!
Jo-Ann Joyal
2 years ago
Very patient and helpful staff. Dr Malesra is very nice and makes sure that you remain comfortable.
Frank Vekeman
2 years ago
Make sure u ask the price first. I ask what was the price of two crowns.the lady said very minimal co pay .well it cost me 900.00 of minimal After it was done .I'm retired and really couldn't afford that.so people take it from me ask
Ian Malloy
2 years ago
The receptionists are dutiful in their work and I always feel like my information is being handled properly. The hygienists know their way around a tooth, I'll tell you that much.
Ian Malloy
3 years ago
The receptionists are dutiful in their work and I always feel like my information is being handled properly. The hygienists know their way around a tooth, I'll tell you that much.
Jo-Ann Joyal
3 years ago
Very patient and helpful staff. Dr Malesra is very nice and makes sure that you remain comfortable.
Frank Vekeman
3 years ago
Make sure u ask the price first. I ask what was the price of two crowns.the lady said very minimal co pay .well it cost me 900.00 of minimal After it was done .I'm retired and really couldn't afford that.so people take it from me ask
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