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 4.9 out of 5 based on 59 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestPatricia Norton
a year ago
From the beautifully restored and roomy waiting room, and the pleasant receptionist, Nicole, to the efficient and quick x-rays by Lisa and finally to the smiling (behind the mask I could still tell), and smart Dr. Chang -- all went well. A most pleasant dental experience -- thank you to all. PvN
mark read
2 years ago
I've only been a few times but I have nothing but great things to say. Scheduling is easy, everyone is friendly, and most importantly, they are supportive to those of us that may not love the typical dentist experience. They listen, they adjust as needed, and have not forced me into anything uncomfortable. Very happy I chose to go here. Update...they continue to be excellent. Cleaning with Danielle was great; excellent hygienist
Yuping Wang
2 years ago
Very friendly staff and very thorough cleaning
Lynne Harper
2 years ago
Dr. Shanthi Cariappa, Dr. Meaghan McCauley and the entire staff of Frenchtown Dental are fantastic. My family and I had been patients of Dr. Peter Wolff for over 25 years (whom they purchased the practice from) so our expectations were high. Drs. Cariappa and McCauley have not disappointed! I recently broke a molar on a Saturday. I called the emergency number and Dr. Cariappa got back to me within minutes and booked me an appointment for first thing Monday morning. The entire staff are always professional, knowledgeable, friendly, and seem to find a way of providing a stress-free experience while delivering the most advanced dental care around. I highly recommend Frenchtown Dental to anyone looking for a high-quality, dental practice to build a long-term relationship with for you and your family, and that you can trust to put the patient's best interest first to keep you smiling for years to come.
Amber Galindo
2 years ago
Office staff is always friendly and accommodating. Hygienists and Dentists are knowledgeable and helpful. Really enjoy this practice. Wish I had found them sooner!
Faith Kindle
2 years ago
I cannot say enough good about this place. Five stars through and through. Everyone at the office is amazing. Sue & Nicole at the front desk are great, Danielle is an incredible hygienist who has taught me a lot, and everyone else has been so nice and very great to work with... And, well, Dr. Cariappa is the veritable Wizard of Dentistry. I've seen five dentists that I can remember during my lifetime, and would never have described any experience as "amazing" (only ever something to be anxiously endured) until this one. I developed some pretty serious dental anxiety from past experiences - to set expectations, I joke that I'm like Dr. Jeckyll for cleanings, but Mr. Hyde once the drill comes out. So many memories of white-knuckling chairs and breaking out in body sweats, and having things hurt despite being told there's no way I could feel things the things that I did. I've been coming to Frenchtown for about two years now. Came in with a load of crumbling fillings and several needed crowns. We're working through all my needed repairs... And having had more major work done here than at any other dentist, and such bad experiences in the past, it's saying a LOT that I am at the point where I come in completely without fear, and knowing that I'm literally in THE BEST hands. Frenchtown (Dr. Cariappa in particular) is proactively empathetic to (rather than ignoring) the fact that going to the dentist can actually make people nervous. Hard to say that anyone is a mind reader, but Dr. Cariappa definitely seems to be fully aware of little signals (not just the left hand raise) while she's working, and always errs on the side of avoiding "the zing," which I really, really appreciate. Several crowns in (even a double!) and I'm officially no longer anxious about going to the dentist.
Penny Boucher
2 years ago
I went to Dr. Wolff for a long time, and loved him. But, I am very happy with the new dental staff, especially, Dr. McCauley, who went "above and beyond" at my appointment this week. Thank you!
Elysia Stites
2 years ago
I have been coming to Frenchtown Dental for some time and I've always had a wonderful experience. Their front desk staff (especially Sue!) are always accommodating, helpful and friendly. The office is clean and Sanitary but still has a cozy, welcoming feel to it. Dr.McCauley (and her assistant!) is by far the most thorough dentist I've ever had and has the best "bedside manner". I'm sad i haven't found her sooner!!
M Gravenstein
2 years ago
Very impressed with facilities and staff. Everyone is personable and professional. D. was the first hygienist who actually showed me how to address some issues with my dentition. Dr. C. took the time to ensure questions were answered to my satisfaction.
Kasey McElheny
2 years ago
Dr. Cariappa, Dr. McCauley, and the rest of the staff are amazing!! I usually see Dr. Cariappa and she is so professional and has done a wonderful job on every service I've had done with her - I have literally had dreams of her working on my teeth! The front desk staff are friendly and helpful. I've been a patient for just over a year now and I'm very happy. Highly recommend :)
KASEY CONTE
2 years ago
Everyone in the office was absolutely amazing and professional. Dr. Cariappa has a wonderful way with her patients and makes them feel at ease. The entire staff and kind and so helpful. I can't recommend this dental office enough!
Melissa Arruda
2 years ago
This office used to be owned by Dr. Wolfe and he sold his practice to retire. Now it has a new owner and I am sad to say that the quality of care and professionalism has gone downhill. At my last visit, I was treated like a number and my visit was on a timer. The hygienist hadn't finished cleaning my teeth nor did she polish them when I heard a bell ding and she backed away, concluding the appointment. I was also told that I grind my teeth and would need a night guard, though I never have, and that I was in need of a deep clean before they would replace some of my fillings. When I inquired what they charge for that procedure was, I was told "it will be expensive because you're no longer in-network." This was news to me as I had been going to this office for over 15 years and most medical and dental offices will notify you when they switch networks as a courtesy to the patient. I decided to go to my boyfriend's dentist, who is highly rated, and I was treated with open and friendly professionalism AND after reviewing my medical files from Frenchtown Dental, my teeth were cleaned and examined and I was informed that I was NOT in need of a deep clean, nor did I have any sign of teeth grinding and NONE of my fillings needed to be replaced. Do not trust Frenchtown Dental. They just want your money.
Elysia Stites
3 years ago
I have been coming to Frenchtown Dental for some time and I've always had a wonderful experience. Their front desk staff (especially Sue!) are always accommodating, helpful and friendly. The office is clean and Sanitary but still has a cozy, welcoming feel to it. Dr.McCauley (and her assistant!) is by far the most thorough dentist I've ever had and has the best "bedside manner". I'm sad i haven't found her sooner!!
Kasey McElheny
3 years ago
Dr. Cariappa, Dr. McCauley, and the rest of the staff are amazing!! I usually see Dr. Cariappa and she is so professional and has done a wonderful job on every service I've had done with her - I have literally had dreams of her working on my teeth! The front desk staff are friendly and helpful. I've been a patient for just over a year now and I'm very happy. Highly recommend :)
Melissa Arruda
3 years ago
This office used to be owned by Dr. Wolfe and he sold his practice to retire. Now it has a new owner and I am sad to say that the quality of care and professionalism has gone downhill. At my last visit, I was treated like a number and my visit was on a timer. The hygienist hadn't finished cleaning my teeth nor did she polish them when I heard a bell ding and she backed away, concluding the appointment. I was also told that I grind my teeth and would need a night guard, though I never have, and that I was in need of a deep clean before they would replace some of my fillings. When I inquired what they charge for that procedure was, I was told "it will be expensive because you're no longer in-network." This was news to me as I had been going to this office for over 15 years and most medical and dental offices will notify you when they switch networks as a courtesy to the patient. I decided to go to my boyfriend's dentist, who is highly rated, and I was treated with open and friendly professionalism AND after reviewing my medical files from Frenchtown Dental, my teeth were cleaned and examined and I was informed that I was NOT in need of a deep clean, nor did I have any sign of teeth grinding and NONE of my fillings needed to be replaced. Do not trust Frenchtown Dental. They just want your money.
KASEY CONTE
3 years ago
Everyone in the office was absolutely amazing and professional. Dr. Cariappa has a wonderful way with her patients and makes them feel at ease. The entire staff and kind and so helpful. I can't recommend this dental office enough!
Robert Messinger
3 years ago
Thank you all for taking such great care of me. Super office staff, the procedure by Dr C was flawless, and the facility was clean, safe, and modern!
M Gravenstein
3 years ago
Very impressed with facilities and staff. Everyone is personable and professional. D. was the first hygienist who actually showed me how to address some issues with my dentition. Dr. C. took the time to ensure questions were answered to my satisfaction.
Robert Messinger
3 years ago
Thank you all for taking such great care of me. Super office staff, the procedure by Dr C was flawless, and the facility was clean, safe, and modern!
norman toevs
4 years ago
I have been going to Dr. Wolff for many decades and highly recommend him for any dental procedure you may need. He and his staff are of the highest caliber in professionalism and always keep the patient's concerns their first priority.
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