Being a pediatric dentist is an incredibly fulfilling professionally and personally career. We have a unique opportunity to build our offices around our young patients: this means we work in colorful, themed dcor, with latest kids movies playing and enjoy the pure joy of childrens happiness!
One of the most important roles of a pediatric dentist is establishing good habits and laying the foundation for good dental care as the child matures. With a fun, safe, and kid-friendly atmosphere, our office is able to minimize anxiety and create a trusting bond with children.
Dr. Khani, our team, and I all work hard to connect with children in a positive manner, figuring out what they need to feel safe and at home. We are patient, kind, and very adaptable, approaching each child on their level and always respecting their unique needs.
It is a great feeling to welcome a new child to our office and see them quickly feel at ease in our environment. Being part of the childs life, and helping them grow up being confident in taking care of their smiles health, is a joy!
I studied Biology at UC Irvine and then graduated from the UCLA School of Dentistry with my Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS) in 1995. While in dental school I volunteered for the USC/UCLA mobile dental clinic, which offered dental care to the children of migrant farm workers; that experience and exposure to the specialized concerns of children, spurred my interest in pediatric dentistry.
I completed a general practice residency at the Rancho Los Amigos Rehabilitation Center. I also worked as a general dentist at two non-profit clinics: The Boys and Girls Club of Buena Park Dental Clinic and the Dr. Earl R. Crane Childrens Dental Health Center.
I chose to work in the oral healthcare field because I wanted to help people understand the importance of good oral hygiene and the connection to overall wellbeing. I specialized in pediatric dentistry as it allows me to offer additional information and tools to assist in creating habits that will benefit each patients health and wellbeing now and in the future.
I make sure I am retaining my knowledge and keeping up-to-date with new developments in dentistry and the pediatric specialty. By participating in continuing education, I explore new horizons in dentistry with the goal of improving and expanding the quality of care I provide.
Through these organizations I participate in seminars, lectures, and meetings, locally, regionally, and nationally. Studying the latest research and evaluating new technologies and techniques keeps me ready to provide quality care to each patient I am privileged to welcome to the office.
Raised near Chicago, Illinois, I moved to California to study at UC Irvine and found myself at home in the region. I now live in Riverside and love this community, though I also love traveling, especially to Hawaii!
Much of my free time is spent enjoying the company of my two amazing children, Nickolas and Mia. I also treasure being with our office pup, Penny, who is not only hypoallergenic but went to training. She is a great addition to our office team, keeping our patients company and providing reassurance during procedures!
As a pediatric dentist, I want to feel like what I am doing is meaningful, that it helps people and makes a difference in their lives. Compassion is the foundation of a good relationship between a dentist and the patient, which creates a bond making communication effective and thus, is especially important for young children and those with special needs.
My goal is to build that connection, based on trust, empathy, and communication, in order to empower my patients. Each child means the world to me, and I want them to graduate from my care knowing they matter, they are important, and that taking care of the dental health is something to take pride in!
One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is helping kids overcome their fears in a new environment. By providing a positive and nurturing experience, always taking my time to establish trust and respecting the childs unique concerns, I help them feel safe and know they are loved.
I attended the University of Southern Mississippi, where I received my Bachelor of Science. Next came my Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS), in 2008 at the Louisiana State University School of Dentistry. Remaining at LSU, I completed my Pediatric Dental residency in 2011.
The pediatric dental specialty, like all fields of dentistry and healthcare in general, is a constantly advancing field. Active and ongoing continuing education is an important part of my commitment to my profession and my patients. I want to stay informed of the newest research and technology, which helps me make sure I am providing the best care possible for my patients.
Each of these organizations offers numerous opportunities for me to learn, to expand and enhance my skills, and to incorporate new options into patient care. In addition to attending meetings and lectures, I study the latest journals to keep up with research, emerging trends, and discussions of methodologies.
I grew up in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and Davis, California. Southern California has been home to me for ten years. Ive now lived in Riverside for six years with my husband JR and our two wonderful kids, Clay and Helen.
Being outdoors is one of my favorite things. I love hiking, cycling, playing tennis, going to the beach, and generally staying active. I also love to travel! One of my favorite destinations is Hawaii.
Our team is the most valuable asset of this practice and is a reflection of our commitment to excellence, quality, and professionalism. Many of our team members are cross-trained, allowing them to jump in wherever they are needed, and theyre ready to help, always with big and genuine smiles.
Every single team member cares about our patients and loves working with kids. They are united in providing quality care while giving each child a personalized, positive, and laughter-filled dental experience!
I enjoy providing support to all aspects of the business and assisting in giving the absolute best in quality care to each of our patients. I coordinate and oversee administrative duties and ensure our office operates efficiently and smoothly.
Outside of the office, time with loved ones is my priority. I have three beautiful children and a wonderful husband. My free time is spent off-roading, traveling to warm tropical places, and I love baking cakes simply to decorate and give away. Im very passionate about the mind, body, fitness, and health. I thoroughly enjoy lifting weights and compete in body building competitions. I also love seeking out any and all new adventures life has to offer and indulge my time away.
I like working with kids and helping each one enjoy their dental experience. I provide oral hygiene services, including cleaning teeth. While Im with a patient, I offer a lot of home dental hygiene guidance and encouragement to the child and their family.
I am glad to be able to change the stigma on dentistry and make sure the kids have the best possible experience. Seeing kids leave with a smile brings me the greatest joy. I provide gentle cleanings and teach patients and families about oral health and how to establish a lifetime of good habits.
Mine is a Star Wars family. I have two boys, Luke and Kylo, and we have a dog named Vader. I also have an amazing husband, Toby. We enjoy spending our time at the lake kayaking, paddle-boarding, and swimming. I love being with all my family, BBQing, and going to the beach.
I love being playful with kids and making sure they are comfortable throughout their visit. In addition to cleaning teeth, I give oral hygiene instructions to patients and parents, so children grow up knowing how to take care of their smile.
My beautiful daughter is number one in my life. Cooking is my passionate hobby and I love spending extra time in the kitchen and coming up with new recipes. I also enjoy off-roading, hanging out at the river, and camping with friends and family.
I love being able to keep our patients happy throughout their visit and send them away with smiles. Working in our clinic, I assist the doctors with various procedures, always attentive to our patients comfort and happiness.
Family keeps me busy outside the office. I am married and have three beautiful children. We love to road trip and explore new places, hang out at the ballfields cheering my boys on, and be outdoors as much as we can. My hobby and passion is floristry. I love getting creative and arranging flower pieces for special events and people.
My family is my life. I am happily married, have four beautiful children, and a family dog named Honey Biscuit. We have a big extended family and love to spend time together at BBQs and playing at the park.
I am currently enrolled at RCC and am an athlete on the womens tennis team. My hobbies include hiking, enjoying the beach, and spending time with family. I have a Chocolate Lab, named Logan, that Ive had since I was seven years old. He is my ultimate best friend.