Dr. Biggs was born and raised in the Detroit, Metropolitan area. Her interest in dentistry was cultivated at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor. When Dr. Biggs decided to pursue her love for Dentistry, she traded in her Wolverine jersey for a Terrapin, to attend the University of Maryland Dental School in Baltimore. Her educational pursuits did not stop there. She left for New York City to strengthen her dental knowledge and clinical skills at St. Marys General Practice Residency. While practicing as a general dentist and enjoying her life in New York City, she realized she had a love for children and a passion for nurturing healthy smiles. Dr. Biggs decided to pursue specialty studies in Pediatric Dentistry at New York University. Upon graduation, she worked for two well known Pediatric and Family Dental practices.
After practicing for several years in New York, Dr. Biggs found her way back to her beginnings in the mid-Atlantic region. The calm and tranquil environment of Northern Virginia allowed Dr. Biggs to pursue her dreams of becoming a practice owner. Although she is a trained specialist in the care of oral health problems, her philosophy is centered in preventive care. It is her most sincere wish that the children she treats will practice preventive strategies on their journey to a perfect smile. She is dedicated to professional development and attends continuing education courses on the latest advancements in dentistry. Additionally, Dr. Biggs is proud to be a faculty member at Childrens National Medical Center.
Dr. Tingling was born on the beautiful sunny island of Jamaica, but shortly thereafter relocated to the cold winters of Michigan! The move was prompted by her fathers educational pursuit to become an Orthodontist at The University of Michigan- Ann Arbor. Her mother became a dental hygienist when Dr. Tingling was in high school. After her completion of an undergraduate degree from the Big House, Dr. Tingling surprised everyone and followed the path of her DNA, by becoming a dentist!
She then traded the cold winters of Ann Arbor for the bright lights of New York City! She was a fellow of General Dentistry at the Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery, for 2 years. It was her exposure there that led her to pursue a specialty degree in Pediatrics. She completed her Pediatric Dentistry Residency at St. Barnabas Hospital- New York Presbyterian Weil Cornell, Bronx, New York. Her genuine love of children is evidenced by the arduous tasks she completed, to enable her to treat them exclusively. She likes practicing dentistry, but LOVES rendering care to children!
Dr. Tingling came to Virginia to be closer to her family and friends in the Mid- Atlantic region She looks forward to exploring the Atlantic coast, the Washington DC sights, the beaches and nearby Mountains; all the best that the DMV has to offer. She enjoys traveling, reading, tea parties, and most importantly- making the dental experience for children AWESOME!
Elizabeth was a member of the US Air Force for ten years before deciding to change career paths and join the dental field. Through several deployments, she witnessed firsthand the lack of dental care available to children and knew she wanted to help make a difference. The doctors invited her to full-time employment upon reception of her Associates of Health Science and Diploma in Dental Assisting. After 2 years of assisting the doctors, her passion for administrative work led her to a new position at Destination Smile as Office Manager. Her attention to detail, commitment to excellent service and broad range of dental knowledge are essential in providing the best dental care for our patients. Elizabeth enjoys the outdoors and spends her spare time staying active with her son and dog.
Lidia worked as a court interpreter for eight years in Virginia before deciding it was time for a new and rewarding career. Lidia enjoys working with people and decided the dental field would be a great opportunity to apply her qualities of patience and kindness. Working with children has made her new career path fun and exciting! In her free time, Lidia enjoys being with family and friends and traveling to new places.
Faith grew up in Northern Virginia and after graduating high school, left Virginia to pursue her education. She attended Fayetteville Technical College where she studied Business Administration and Human Resources. Faith shares with us over thirteen years of both administrative and customer service experience. Her outgoing personality, enthusiasm and welcoming smile are the perfect addition to our team. Faith enjoys spending time with her family, shopping, and traveling to the Outer Banks during her spare time.
Having spent her adolescence in a small town in Northern Virginia, Tracee decided to move to the metropolitan area for more opportunities. Although she has a degree in Cosmetology, she decided to begin a career in dentistry. Once she graduated and became a dental assistant, she knew working with children was where her heart was. She joined the Destination Smile family in 2012. In her spare time she enjoys photography and spending time with her friends and family. In the future, she hopes to start a non profit organization for kids.
Leah was born and raised in Virginia. Her love for children started when she was in high school and would nanny for families in her neighborhood. After graduating high school she pursued her dream of becoming a cosmetologist and obtained her licenses. Shorty after having her daughter she decided it was time to seek opportunity in a more rewarding career that would allow her more time to watch her child grow up. Leah was introduced to dentistry through a family member who has worked in the industry for over 10 years. She attended dental assisting school knowing that she wanted to help children in the pursuit to a beautiful healthy smile.
Jamie finished her Dental Assistant program at the Metropolitan Institute of Health and Technology in April 2011. Shortly thereafter, she welcomed her sweet baby girl to her family. Jamie continued to work as a preschool teacher for about two more years before pursuing dental assisting for a general dentist and periodontist. While she loved every minute of it, she truly missed working with children! She found her home at Destination Smile and shares the passion in teaching children good oral health habits to preserve a healthy smile. Jamie is a fun-loving, very excitable person who enjoys the outdoors, hiking, reading, traveling, and spending quality time with her beautiful daughter!
Pouneh has been in the dental field since 2004. She began her career working with children of all ages as an assistant in a pediatric dental practice and continues to enjoy making visits to the dentist as comfortable and fun as possible for kids. Patients adore her enthusiasm and contagious smile, while the staff loves her helpful attitude and dedication. During her years of employment as an assistant, Pouneh studied Art and Visual Technology and received her Bachelors degree from George Mason University in Fairfax, VA. She enjoys showing off her artistic ability by designing and painting childrens murals in other dental offices in the area. Pouneh enjoys being with friends in her spare time and traveling to places shes never seen.
Born in the Midwest, Kara ONeil has spent much of her adult life traveling around the United States and Europe. Before moving to Europe, Kara worked with children with disabilities. She loves interacting with children and her experiences have inspired her to become involved in community projects. Kara has led several community groups and worked as a substitute teacher at the military school in Baumholder, Germany. She helped establish a functional Family Readiness Group in her husbands military unit which provided support for the soldiers' wives and families during deployments. Upon returning to the states, Kara found another outlet for her talents in helping the Destination Smile family grow. She takes great pleasure coordinating community projects and health care for children with the doctors of Destination Smile.
Reviews
Rating 4.1 out of 5 based on 82 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestEmmanuel Wodajo
a year ago
The people in this place are so scared of COVID that they don't let you in with your kids. They follow the Chinese style 0 case policy violating peoples rights. If you are this worried you should change your line of business. You will be ordered to leave them and wait outside. They have a sizable waiting area but you have to be outside even if there is one person seating inside. Very ridiculous!!!
Sanchita Panda
a year ago
1. They do not allow parents to accompany kids and when I asked the doctor if they will let me stay for my son's tooth extraction in the office, the doctor rudely replied that it's her decision which is a NO 2. My son has liver problem because of which he is prescribed to drink a high calorie formula with MCT oils for maintaining even basic growth. She came out of her office and point blank told me that the formula has to go and when I said that I am not sure about it coz it helps him gain weight and there are not many options out there which can give him the same number of calories in one meal that his liver can easily absorb, she raised her voice and started saying that I am insulting her in her office, she made it a horrific and painful experience. I told her that she can try talking to my son's doctor, to which she again started accusing me of not wanting to get the formula out of his diet. I was polite and composed the entire time and Dr Tingling went on and on about, how I was insulting her
Molly Herwick
2 years ago
Our journey with Destination Smile is over - after a good run for 12 years. Dr Tingling , my kids dentist since they were born, humiliated them today. I cannot support their Covid policy that requires parents of children 7 years and older to wait in the car. My daughter (age 10) had a filling repaired last week under nitrous (and I had to wait in the car!). I have 3 children : ages 12, 10, 6 They told me at check in today that my youngest could go back at 0800 with the older two if he would "separate from me." Otherwise , I could go back with him at 0815. (I was NOT allowed to be back with the older children). As I was leaving the office, there was another mom "dropping off her kids" after which we had a brief exchange over the frustrations with their Covid policy which excludes parents from being with their minor children. So I went outside with my youngest and they took my older 2 for their cleanings. The dentist came out about 10 minutes later with my daughter in tears and embarrassed - but trying to smile through it. They did not have their cleanings. My daughter had already had her X-rays (they radiated her unnecessarily and then kicked us out.) The dentist got my 2 kids up from their dental chairs and told them something along the lines of - we can't be your dentist anymore because of my disagreements with your mom - you'll need to go to your car -- she took it upon herself to handle this with my children while I was outside. The dentist told us we were not invited back. She accused me of sabotaging her business by talking to the other mom about their Covid policies. We had a great experience for 12 years. I'm sad to see our relationship end this way. Please review their Covid policies to see if this is the right fit for you.
Lilibeth Brooks
2 years ago
I wish I could have loved it like everyone else, but I wasn't a fan. My first impression of the interactions with my son was that they must not work with kids. I had to double check to see if it was a pediatric dentist office. The hygienist was timid and unsure of herself. She kept stumbling over her words to my son. She also kept getting distracted by what was going on with the patients next to us. She also seemed mostly confused. My son is 3 and the glob of toothpaste she used was bigger than what I would use for myself. Overall it was a confusing interaction. She kept mousing around. Then the doctor came and she was loud and obnoxious. By the reviews, others loved her but again, it wasn't what I prefer... my 3 year old doesn't understand your sarcasm. When she checked his teeth, she was very rude to the hygienist, I'm assuming because the hygienist was quiet and not answering her question. Again, didn't give me great feelings about the cohesion of the office. It happened again because there wasn't a toy in his bag... the back and forth went on and I should have just said not to worry about the toy but they went down this rabbit hole looking for it. I was also not pleased with their interaction with my son. She kept telling him to be a big boy.... Which is a red flag and wish I listened to my gut to just carry him out of the chair and out of the office. They attempted to do X-rays and tried to "show" him what to do with the part that goes into his mouth... but they had masks on so really it wasn't helpful. But they kept on saying "like this" but not actually showing him like what. And then when his gums bled, she stuck her fingers in his mouth roughly to wipe his teeth and didn't stop even though he was scream/crying and his lips split and started bleeding. Then when I asked her to write down a term she used so I could look it up later, they didn't have handouts about it... she was smart saying that google doesn't have anything on her education. Which would normally not run me the wrong way but the way she interacted with my son, I was not vibing. She is the nightmare that causes kids to hate the dentist. My son is at an age where he is brutally honest and when my husband did bedtime with my son, he told his dad that the dentist was rough and he thinks she's a monster. I don't think I would have disagreed. I actually feel guilt for not protecting him. We just moved here and he's gone 3 other times to a dentist with no issues... because they were good with kids. For the time we had to wait, I'd expect better... that a pediatric doctor would be patient with the child. It's without saying, we will not go back.
Fionnuala Smyth
2 years ago
We were patients in 2016 with my sons first teeth. Loved the practice and all staff. We moved to NY - where my son had some tough experiences with dentists including crowns. We returned to the area and once again returned to Destination Smile. I CAN NOT EXPRESS HOW WONDERFUL THEY WERE! My son had a few tears before we got out of the car and we have had discussion prior to going to "psych" him up!! Once inside the staff were kind and really calming. Our technician Morgaine (sorry if I misspelled) was amazing. She explained everything slowly and was so reassuring. Slowly my son became more and more at ease. I could see he had no reservations. Dr. Biggs was just as kind and child friendly as I remembered. She gave him time and explained everything. Her interactions with my son was gentle and easy going - truly kid friendly. You can tell she loves what she does!! As we left the office my son says he is no longer afraid of the dentist and it was ACTUALLY KIND OF FUN! I am so grateful and appreciative for the time and gentleness they showed my son. Dr Biggs gave us time and was so pleasant - a wonderful experience all around. If I could go to Dr Biggs I would!!
Olivia Robinson
2 years ago
Today was my First time visiting this Dentist what can I say it was amazing experience the whole staff was totally friendly down to Dr. Briggs herself. The atmosphere was bright and welcoming. Both of my kids said there teeth didn't hurt after there cleaning . Everything was explained to very Detail .I will definitely recommend Destination Dentisit
Jay Delinski
2 years ago
They denied my son because THEIR thermometer read him at 100 degrees. OUR thermometer AS WELL AS HIS SCHOOL's read him at 98.6 degrees. How awful to make a 6 year old FEEL like he's sick when he is clearly not. Find a legitimate practice and skip this garbage! Follow the science - kids are NOT at risk nor do they POSE a risk from Covid!!!!
Desiree Montalvo
2 years ago
This is our first time taking our little one to a dentist. Since COVID only one parent is allowed to go to the appointment this first time was my husband turn and he just love it, he told me all staff secretary, dentist and the assistant were totally so good attentive and friendly with our daughter to make her feel comfortable. We're very excited to come back. I recommend it to anyone the place to take their little ones.
J Y
2 years ago
We had an 8 am appointment. Got there at 750 and waited outside until after 8 am. They should post someone at the front desk even though they're having their morning meeting. Or, start/end their morning meeting earlier. The person that checked us in was nice. There was another with short hair who rolled her eyes at me when I was just making a statement that I would have liked to be present for my son's first ever dental appointment (they only allow one parent). Unprofessional! Finally, my husband reported that they held my 9 month baby down to brush his teeth. I would never have allowed this type of force if I was allowed in the room.
Lisa Pontillo
2 years ago
First time visiting Destination Smile and I instantly loved the place. They were very friendly with my son and made his visit exciting. They were very helpful and has answers to all my questions. Would definitely recommend.
brett lubeck
2 years ago
Look no further if your searching for a pediatric dental group. We couldn't be happier with Dr. Tingling and her excellent staff top to bottom. Miss Mercedes was our hygienist today and was absolutely amazing with our kids. I would add multiple +'s to this rating if it were an option.
niyistrong
2 years ago
My three boys and I had a great experience today at Destination Smile in Lorton. Everyone was very kind and professional. The girls at the front desk were very friendly and patient. The hygienist was also very good and worked fast. Dr.Tingling made us feel welcomed and was very upbeat and fun. Thank you
Erica White Johnson
2 years ago
Awesome service! I would recommend Dr. Tingling & team to anyone looking for a great experience for their little ones.
Nayab Hussain
2 years ago
The team over at Destination Smile made my son's first dentist visit a pleasant one. Right from the check in process, Lindsey, was very inviting and made us both feel at ease. Mercedes did a great job checking his teeth and keeping him calm, and Dr. Biggs came in to wrap up the visit with a friendly and calm demeanor. They also followed very strict Covid protocols which put my mind at ease. Afterwards, my son, who's 2, said he wants to go again! Thank you Destination Smiles for a wonderful first visit... see you in 6 months!
Abdul Fatah Kakar
2 years ago
Unfortunately, I've never seen a poor customer service like Destination Smile has. They deserve minus stars. I wish I could give them minus. They charging extras. They sent me a bill for paying for their employees PPE , the masks and PPE for the employees should be provided by the employers not the patients. Why I have to pay fir they PPE. I have many other bad customer service experience from them also. I don't recommend this practice for anybody. Thanks
ONEWIZZY PRODUCTIONS (A1WIZZY)
2 years ago
There great ! Moved out of lorton few years back but still Choose to come here
Islandgirlpoetry Artwork
2 years ago
My experience at destination smile is like no other. The best children's dentist in the area by far. The theme and art puts the children in a comfortable exciting setting and the two doctors there and their staff are all pleasant. Best experience for my daughters. I recommend to everyone.
Glenda Flores
2 years ago
This was our first time taking our son to the dentist. I had been trying to make an appointment somewhere but then Covid happened. It was recommended to me by one of the police officers that works at my job and in all honesty such a great experience!!!! My son did cry but that's expected but afterwards he was happy and fine and saying goodbye to everyone! This is a wonderful dentist very attentive with patients and all the staff is very friendly!!
Shannon Roberts
3 years ago
Destination Smile is so amazing, I bring my children from Maryland to be seen at this practice! From the front office staff - Lindsey (sp), to the dental hygienists/assistants - Mercedes, to Dr. Tingling, herself, my children feel welcomed as soon as they come through the door. The professionalism, the customer service, the expertise, and genuine care provided at this practice is consistent and hard to duplicate. My children get EXCITED when I tell them they are going to the dentist (can you imagine?)!
J Y
3 years ago
We had an 8 am appointment. Got there at 750 and waited outside until after 8 am. They should post someone at the front desk even though they're having their morning meeting. Or, start/end their morning meeting earlier. The person that checked us in was nice. There was another with short hair who rolled her eyes at me when I was just making a statement that I would have liked to be present for my son's first ever dental appointment (they only allow one parent). Unprofessional! Finally, my husband reported that they held my 9 month baby down to brush his teeth. I would never have allowed this type of force if I was allowed in the room.
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