Dr. Stringer finished her undergraduate work at Penn State University, where she not only made deans lists each semester but also received numerous awards, given to the top student of the class. While attending Penn State she was invited to join the National Health Pre-professional Honor Society, Alpha Epsilon Delta. She received her D.M.D. (Doctor of Medical Dentistry) from the University Of Pittsburghs School Of Dental Medicine, where she graduated with an outstanding academic record. She attended Pitt with an academic scholarship, awarded only to a highly select group of students, showing outstanding academic achievement. Dr. Stringer has focused training in sedation dentistry, oral surgery, and AEGD (Advanced Education in General Dentists in Frederick MarylandDentistry). She has participated in Give Kids a Smile Day since 2007. She is also a member in good standing with the American Dental Association, the Maryland State Dental Association, and Frederick County Dental Society and HDA.

On a personal note, she and her husband, Stewart, live in The Villages of Urbana, with Bopeboe and Veete, their golden retriever and Labrador retriever. Dr. Stringer enjoys hiking, gardening, fishing, playing the piano, skiing, traveling and playing fetch with her dogs.

Dr. Jared Lawson graduated magna cum laude from West Virginia University School of Dentistry in Morgantown, WV and received his undergraduate degree in biomedical science from Marshall University in Huntington, WV. During his time at WVU, Dr. Lawson participated in volunteer outreach programs providing dental care for underserved populations and traveled to Guatemala where he gave fluoride treatments to children in rural villages. He also won his class research competition and presented his project at the American Dental Association conference in San Antonio. Dr. Lawson previously practiced dentistry in Columbia, MD, but relocated to the Frederick area for its rich history, culture, scenery, and community.

Dr. Lawson is a member of the American Dental Association, Maryland State Dental Association, as well as the Academy of General Dentistry. He is dedicated to continuing education and staying current on the newest developments in the field of dentistry. Dr. Lawson most enjoys his interactions with his patients, where he strives to form personal connections and make visits as comfortable as possible. Outside of the office, Dr. Lawson enjoys backpacking, motorcycling, collecting vinyl records, and playing guitar. He has two older sisters and seven nieces/nephews in his hometown of Teays Valley, WV.

Dr. Pratik Patel, a native of Virginia, attended Bishop Ireton High School. He graduated from The George Washington University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science. Dr. Patel received his Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) from SUNY at Buffalo, School of Dental Medicine and completed his General Practice Residency at Lehigh Valley Hospital in Allentown, Pennsylvania. After working as a Gener al Dentist, Dr. Patel decided to pursue further training and specialize in Endodontics. He received his Certificate in Endodontics from Columbia University in New York City.

Dr. Patel is a Specialist member of the American Association of Endodontists. He is a Fellow of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada [FRCD(C)], and has Specialist Registration with the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario. Dr. Patel has performed pro bono work abroad in third world countries, such as in India and Guatemala. He enjoys traveling, sports, and outdoor activities. His favorite teams to watch are the Nationals, Capitals, and Redskins!

Dr. Chang earned his dental degree from the University of Pennsylvania through the Health Professional Scholarship Program from the U.S. Army. He decided to pursue additional training and completed his residency in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at Walter Reed Army Medical Center and Bethesda Naval Medical Center. He spent the following four years as the Chief of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at Fort Polk, Louisiana, treating our soldiers and other service members.

Dr. Tigani is committed to providing his patients with the best possible orthodontic care in the Washington area. He has worked in orthodontics for over fifteen years and believes in treating each and every patient with the individual care and attention they deserve. Dr. Tigani is passionate about his profession and enjoys combining the art and science of orthodontics. He provides his patients with the latest technology and advances in orthodontics while maintaining a personal and caring relationship with every adult, teen or child. Dr. Tigani believes every patient should have a healthy, happy smile that lasts a lifetime.

Dr. Tigani received his Bachelor of Science degree from Georgetown University in 1988 where he majored in Psychology and minored in Biology. He then received his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore College of Dental Surgery, Dental School in 1992, after which, he worked with his father, brother, sister and brother-in-law as a general dentist while pursuing his orthodontic degree. Dr. Tigani then completed a two year orthodontic residency program at Columbia University in 1995.

Dr.Tigani is a native Washingtonian who is involved at both the professional and community levels. He is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, the World Federation of Orthodontists, the American Dental Association, the District of Columbia Dental Society and a fellow of the International College of Dentists (ICD) and the American College of Dentists (ACD). The ICD is an honorary international organization that recognizes dentists for outstanding and meritorious service to the profession of dentistry and to the community. The ACD 's members exemplify excellence through outstanding leadership and exceptional contributions to dentistry and society. He is a past President of the District of Columbia Dental Society, a component of the ADA that helps in the further advancement of the dental profession while being an advocate for the community and dentistry as a whole. Dr. Tigani is the past Chairman for the D.C. Dental Society 's 'Give Kids a Smile Program,' an annual event providing oral health care to low income families in the Washington, DC area. He currently represents the District of Columbia Dental Society as a delegate to the American Dental Association and also serves on the ADA Council on Membership.

Dr.Tigani has been involved with his community civic associations, coaches soccer and basketball for the past 20 years, and serves on numerous boards and councils. He is currently a delegate to the American Dental Association. He has been married for 27 years and has four children whom attend various colleges and graduate schools.

Dr. Ashley Seals, a native of the Washington, DC area, graduated from University of Maryland, College Park with a bachelor degree in Neurobiology/Physiology. Dr. Seals earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Howard University College of Dentistry, where she was inducted into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon Honor Dental Society. Dr. Seals went on to complete a 3 year surgical residency in Periodontics at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine in New York, where she also earned her Masters in Periodontics. During her time at Columbia University, she performed extensive research at the Center for Craniofacial Regeneration and was an associate clinical faculty member. Dr. Seals is also a board certified diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology, qualifiying her to be proficient in advanced gum surgery and implantology. Dr. Seals is an active member of several professional organizations including: American Dental Association, American Academy of Periodontology, DC Dental Society, and Greater Washington Academy of Women Dentists. Outside of the office, Dr. Seals enjoys hiking, kayaking, watching basketball, international cuisine, and live performing arts.

Dr. Chi is a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Army. Dr. Chi graduated from the University of Virginia with a bachelor degree in Biochemistry. He was awarded the Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Maryland in 2005. He completed a three-year residency program specializing in prosthodontics at the U.S. Army Postgraduate Dental School in Augusta, Georgia in 2008, and a Master of Sciences in Oral Biology from Dental College of Georgia at Augusta University, August, GA. His thesis entitled Resistance to abrasion of extrinsic porcelain esthetic characterization techniques. was published, in July 2017, in the Army Medical Department Journal. Dr. Chi has to his credit a fellowship in Oral Oncology and Maxillofacial Prosthodontics from The University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas in 2018 where his clinical work titled Prosthodontic treatment of a patient with Ewing sarcoma of the left maxillary sinus: A clinical report was accepted for publication in 2018, in the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry.

Dr. Chi has been conferred numerous awards. In 2018, he was conferred the Maxillofacial Foundation Award by the American Academy of Maxillofacial Prosthodontics. In July 2016, Dr. Chi was awarded Meritorious Service Medal by the United States Army. Dr. Chi was as an Invited Speaker at International Congress of Oral Implantologists, Korea Section and Seoul International *Dental* Exhibition & Scientific Congress on the topic of Zirconia Restorations.

Dr. Chi has multiple scientific papers published in both national and international journals as well as poster discussions at national conferences. Dr. Chi presented two abstracts entitled Prosthodontic treatment of a patient with Ewing sarcoma of the left maxillary sinus: A clinical report and The effects of zinc on radiation-induced dysgeusia: A meta-analysis during American Academy of Maxillofacial Prosthodontics and American College of Prosthodontists meetings in 2018.

While attending the University of Maryland College Park she knew she wanted to be in the healthcare field. She started working as a dental assistant part-time and fell in love with the dental industry. She then completed her undergraduate major in biology then continued her graduate school in dental at the University of Maryland, Baltimore.

Through the American Academy of Facial Esthetics, she received certification for botox injections. These injections help patients suffering from TMJ, grinding, jaw clenching which can lead to other health concerns like high blood pressure if untreated.

Dr. Badakshan enjoys getting to know all of her patients on a personal level. She loves getting to know about what they do and their families. Dr. Badakshan doesn't want her patients to feel like another number, so she makes it a point to remember them and things about them.

Dr. Bs biggest goal is having her patients feel comfortable coming to her and trusting her with their health. This is why she doesnt rush any part of the process. Dr. Badakshan makes sure each patient is well informed and their decisions.

Dr. B thoroughly goes over all options a patient has with their treatment and situation in mind. Together we review X-rays in detail, answering any questions they have. She takes time to ensure everyone is on the same page. Dr. Badakshan makes a point to ensure her patients are comfortable and pain-free.

Outside of work, Dr. B is known for keeping a healthy lifestyle. She loves to exercise and do yoga. Dr. Badakshan understands a healthy body is displayed through all aspects of the body, through exercise, healthy eating, and oral care. Even a low-grade infection in your mouth can be detrimental to your overall health.

Dr. Badakshan has been a member of the PearlFection team since 2018. She helps her patients get a beautiful smile, whether that's just by cleaning their teeth or doing a cosmetic treatment. But most importantly, Dr. Badakshan gives her patients their oral health back.

'We have a lot of specialists we have a lot of general dentists. Dr. Badakshan said. 'It 's constantly growing and evolving and it 's really great for the staff as well as for the patients. They get really great care here.

Dr. Nikta Pashai is a general dentist that is devoted to giving quality patient care and building long term relationships with each of her patients. She is committed to providing healthy smiles through carefully designed and customized treatment plans. As a member of the American Dental Association, Maryland State Dental Association, and Academy of General Dentistry, she is dedicated to continued education and staying current with new advances in the dental field.

Dr. Nikta Pashai was born and raised in Ellicott City, Maryland. She attended University of Maryland, College Park, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. She earned her dental degree from University of Maryland School of Dentistry in Baltimore. While in dental school, Dr. Pashai enjoyed giving back to the community by participating in Mid- Maryland Mission of Mercy events and providing dental screenings for Special Olympics participants.

After completing her dental degree, Dr. Pashai went on to complete an Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency program at University of Maryland School of Dentistry. During her residency, Dr. Pashai was able to expand on her current skills by managing complex comprehensive cases and gaining proficiency with cutting edge technology.

Dr. Perez is a native of Texas and received his Bachelors degree from the University of Texas of San Antonio (UTSA). Following this, he pursued a degree in Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio (UTHSCSA). Dr. Perez has had Navy sponsorship throughout his training via the Health Services Collegiate Program (HSCP). He was honorably selected into a Full-Time Out Service (FTOS) OMS residency program during dental school.

Dr. Perez continued his training at UTHSCSA and earned his Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) During this time, he completed his General Surgery/Anesthesia internship and subsequently completed his Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery training in 2014.

Dr. Perez is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons (ABOMS) and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS). Special interests include dentoalveolar surgery, dental implant and bone grafting surgeries, cleft palate surgery, orthognathic surgery, trauma surgery, facial reconstructive surgery, facial cosmetics and TMJ surgery/reconstruction.

Dr. Perez is currently active duty in the Navy where he functions as staff in an OMS resident and teaching facility that engages in the full scope of the specialty. In his free time, Dr. Perez spends all his time with his wife and three kids.

Dr. Joseph Lee DDS is an accomplished and experienced endodontic specialist who is dedicated to the principles of medical excellence and total patient care. Dr Lee earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery, degrees from Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery, after graduating from dental school, he was accepted into the elite training program of the U.S. Army AEGD Residency program and stationed at Fort Meade, MD. With his doctorate degree secured, Dr Lee decided that he wanted to specialize and excel in root canal treatment, so he applied and was accepted into the Case Western Reserve University School of Dentistrys specialty program in endodontics. At Case Western, Dr Lee earned his Master of Science in Dentistry in Endodontics. This degree is reserved for those dentists who have demonstrated exceptional skills and have completed a rigorous study and clinical program specializing in the field of endodontics. These advance degrees assure patients that the doctor who will be performing their root canal has skills and training far in advanced of the average dentist.

Dr. Lee believes in communicating with patients along every step of the endodontic process and encourages patients to ask questions before, during and after the root canal is completed. His goal is to not only perform exception endodontic care, but to provide exception customer service, so patients never feel like a number.

In order to facilitate root canal procedures at the Frederick Maryland locations, Dr. Joseph Lee utilizes the state of the art in endodontic surgery microscopy, as well as Cone Beam CT technology, rotary endodontic hand pieces, and top of the line materials to provide the best outcome possible.

Treating kids and putting a smile on their faces has always been the goal. For almost two decades Dr Sholander has been taking care of the dental needs of children and she would love to meet yours. While helping kids' smiles grow is a major priority, she also wants them to enjoy the process, whether that means talking about their interests, playing games, breaking out in song or helping them express their dental concerns.

Growing up in a family of medical professionals, Dr Sholander was exposed to dentistry at a young age, enabling her to pursue her dream of becoming a pediatric dentist. After graduating from the University of Georgia with her undergraduate degree, Dr Sholander completed her Doctorate of Dental Medicine at the Medical College of Georgia. She also achieved a Master in Oral Biology, reinforcing her desire to provide the most current and scientifically driven dental care for her patients. She practiced as a Family Dentist for 6 years before getting married and returning to school to specialize in Pediatric Dentistry. When her specialty program at the Georgia Health and Science University was completed, she moved to the DMV (DC, Maryland, Virginia) area with her family.

When she is not in the office laughing along with her patients, she likes to spend time with her husband, two daughters and her dog. The whole family can usually be found exploring a hiking trail, museum, new restaurant or just a good book.

In order to provide the best dental care for children at the PearlFection Dentistry Frederick and Urbana Maryland locations, Dr. Sholander utilizes the state of the art in pediatric dental technology, nitrous oxide delivery systems, Cone Beam CT technology, and top of the line materials to provide the best possible outcomes, in a safe and comfortable, child friendly and reassuring environment.

Dr. Heather Sholander is backed up by the PearlFection Team of 11 other doctors, including 4 general and cosmetic dentists Drs. EJ Stringer, Jared Lawson, Tammira Badakhshan and Nikta Pashai, 2 oral surgeons, Drs. Brian Chang and Leo Perez, two endodontists, Dr Pratik Patel and Dr Joseph Lee, a periodontist, Dr Ashley Seals, an orthodontist, Dr Stephen Tigani, and a prosthodontist, Dr Amos Chi , and a support staff of dental hygienists, assistants and front team. The goal at PearlFection is to always have the most skilled doctor in their particular field do the dental procedures that they are best at. That may be why PearlFection has such outstanding outcomes and 98% of our patients say they would refer a friend or family member.

PearlFection Dentistry has two locations, one in Urbana, Maryland and one in Frederick Maryland and is owned and operated by our dentists. Dr Sholander sees pediatric dental patients at both locations.

So if your kids need pediatric dental care, orthodontics, teeth extractions or just a semi-annual teeth cleaning in Frederick Maryland, Urbana Maryland or the surrounding Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, DC or West Virginia area, you could take your kids to a general dentist, or you can put your kids teeth and long term health in the hands of a specialist doctor like Heather Sholander DDS, who has spent her career focusing on the dental care of children.

Dr. Peterson Huang is a Dual Board-Certified Prosthodontist. He grew up in Vancouver, Canada where he received his bachelors in science degree in Integrated Sciences and a Minor in Music from the University of British Columbia. After obtaining his dental degree from Case Western Reserve University in Ohio, School of Dental Medicine, he received his Certificate of Specialist in Prosthodontics and a Master of Science from the University of Maryland, where he is a Clinical Assistant Professor on the Deans Faculty, teaching prosthodontics to the University of Maryland Dental School students. Dr. Huang has publications in the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, From childhood to adulthood: Oral Rehabilitation of a Patient with Ectodermal Dysplasia and The Effect of Various Disinfectants on Dental Shade Guides (2014).

He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Prosthodontics, a Fellow of the American College of Prosthodontists (FACP), a Fellow of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada (FRCDC) and a member of the American Academy of Fixed Prosthodontics. Dr. Huang is also a staff member in the Department of Surgery, INOVA Fairfax Hospital and is a member of the Tumor Board there.

When not in the office caring for his dental family, Dr Huang enjoys finding new restaurants to try with family and friends and spending time with his three cats, Captain, Morgan, and MacCavity. He continues to play the piano, which he almost decided to do professionally, after his graduation with an Associates Degree from the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto.

As a prosthodontist, he examines and treats all types of disabilities caused by loss of teeth and supporting structures, this is frequently accomplished with the use of dental implants, dentures and other prosthetic devices. With help from his highly trained team members, he provides advanced treatment plans for the construction of corrective restorations and prostheses to restore proper function and esthetics of the mouth, face, and jaw.

Bringing healthy smiles to young patients and setting them on course for a lifetime of oral health has always been important to Dr. Constanza Mondragon. Dr. Connie believes in ethics, caring, and a dedication to children and families. Originally from Columbia, South America, her passion for serving others led her to attend dental school at El Bosque University in Bogota, where she received her DDS degree. After relocating to Florida, she completed the International Dental Graduate program at Nova Southeastern University and earned her DMD certification.

Dr. Connie is committed to providing a high standard of care to implement and maintain her young patients' oral health. She believes her greatest joy and rewards come from the little ones. While attending Nova Southeastern University, she was actively involved in community events aimed at providing oral healthcare services and education to the community and volunteered to provide free essential dental services to children in need. In keeping with her interest in meeting the dental needs of children, Dr. Connie went on to receive a post-graduate degree in Pediatric Dentistry from NSU. She later traded the sunshine and beaches of Florida for the proximity of family in the D.C. Metropolitan area.

Dr. Connie is seeing pediatric dental patients at both the Frederick, MD and Urbana, MD offices. Specialized pediatric tools and equipment along with an exceptional team of orthodontists and other specialists with pediatric expertise help Dr. Connie to maintain a convenient, worry-free environment for young patients and their families at both locations. She is also bilingual (English/Spanish) and extremely skilled at making children of all ages feel safe and comfortable.

When she is not in the office, Dr. Connie enjoys spending time with family and friends, including playing soccer with her nephew and joining in other outdoor adventures. She likes to stay healthy and fit through Zumba, long walks, and working out at the gym. She also enjoys traveling, dancing, and going to the movies.

Dr. Scott Pasieta is a Dual Board-Certified Periodontist with over a decade of experience in gum disease treatment, advanced cosmetic procedures, and the placement of dental implants. He completed his graduate studies at the University of Maryland Dental School and went on to earn his certificate in Periodontics from the Naval Postgraduate Dental School in Bethesda, Maryland. As a Navy Periodontist, Dr. Pasieta was afforded the opportunity to practice and travel all over the world. This included a stop in the Aloha State, where he established a private Periodontic practice and served as an attending Clinical Periodontics faculty member for the New York University Waikiki Health Clinic.

Dr. Pasieta is a board-certified Diplomate of both the American Board of Periodontology (ABP) and the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI), the worlds largest dental implant organization. He also maintains active memberships with the American Academy of Periodontology and the American Dental Association (ADA). Dr. Pasieta utilizes his advanced knowledge and expertise to perform implant surgery, crown lengthening, gum recontouring, and pocket reduction procedures. He also supports patients with non-surgical root planing and scaling treatments to clean and repair damaged tissues.

While in the office, Dr. Pasieta has at his disposal the most advanced facilities, equipment, and tools available for gum surgery and implantology, which helps him to ensure the ongoing oral health and wellness of his patients while providing the best possible outcome. Outside of the office, he enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, cooking, attending the theater, and watching sports.

As a Periodontist, Dr. Pasieta specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of inflammatory diseases that affect the gums and other tooth-supporting tissues. Periodontists treat cases ranging from mild gingivitis to severe gum infections and other conditions requiring aggressive periodontal therapy or surgical intervention, including the placement of dental implants.

Born and raised in Middletown, Maryland. bGraduated from Middletown High School and graduated Towson University in May 2016 with her degree in Psychology. Plans to attend hygiene school within the next few years. Enjoys fishing, family game nights and hiking.

Mikaela graduated from Hagerstown Community College with an A.A.S. in Dental Hygiene. She was given the award for Outstanding Student in Dental Hygiene. She is also licensed to administer local anesthesia. Outside of work she enjoys cooking, making crafts, and spending time with her friends and family.

Shabnam is native to Maryland and graduated from the Community College of Baltimore County Dental Hygiene Program with an A.A.S and is licensed to administer local anesthesia. Outside of the Dental field she is a Licensed Massage Therapist and enjoys yoga, dance, traveling and spending time with her son.

Will Joined PearlFection's prosthodontic team in 2021 and has 10 years of dental experience in many functional areas, front desk, dental assisting and treatment plan coordinator. When he is not working you can find him catering weddings with his catering business or fishing at the bay. Will is married and has been with his husband Don for 16 years and they have a puggle fur baby named Toby.

Graduated from John Hadley High school in Winchester VA, moved to Frederick Maryland and went to FCC. Got her certification for phlebotomy and dental assistant. Loves helping people and spending time with her family.

There are nine specialties sanctioned by the American Dental Association, Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics is one of them. Many patients state during the treatment, ' I 'm going to my orthodontist today' but rarely do you hear someone say ' I 'm going to my dentofacial orthopedist.' Several years ago the AAO changed the title of our specialty to be more encompassing.

An orthodontist and dentofacial orthopedist does more than just straightening teeth. We can influence growth of the jaws. The word 'ortho' comes from the Greek for 'straight' or 'correct,' and 'dontic' comes from the Greek meaning 'teeth.' The word dentofacial has its origin from Greece as well. The term 'dentofacial' means 'teeth' plus 'face' while 'ortho' again means 'straight' and 'pedic' is from the Greek for 'child.'

Orthodontics is the management of tooth movement and dentofacial orthopedics involves the guidance of facial growth and development. This growth occurs in largely in early childhood development thru the early teen years. Some growth still exists in late teen years. In either case, an orthodontist uses this growth and development to best treat the patient. Certain appliances like a headgear or expander are used during childhood developmental years. Sometimes orthopedic treatment may precede braces, like an expander, but other times the two are accomplished at the same time. So if your child has braces and a headgear, he or she is undergoing orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics!