Doctor of Dental Surgery University of Maryland Dental School Master of Science in Complementary and Alternative Medicine Georgetown University Bachelor of Science in Public Health George Washington University
Dr. Wood believes in a comprehensive and individualized approach to treating her patients. As no two people's values, diets and concerns are the same, she helps her patients meet their specific functional and cosmetic goals in a pain free and caring environment. She also stays up to date on the latest evidence-based home care tools and techniques, coaching her patients on how to maintain a healthy and beautiful smile for life.
Dr. Wood treats patients with a variety of dental needs, from pediatrics to implants. She completed the Doctor of Dental Surgery program and Advanced General Dentistry residency at the University of Maryland Dental School. She then received her dental implantology certificate from New York University College of Dentistry. She holds a Bachelor 's degree in Public Health from the George Washington University and a Master 's degree in Complementary and Alternative Medicine from Georgetown University. She attends continuing education courses regularly to stay current on the latest advancements in her field. She is a member of the Academy of General Dentistry and American Academy for Oral Systemic Health, and is a board member of the University of Maryland Dental School Alumni Association. She is also a contributing author on complementary and alternative medicine practices for the 'ADA/ PDR Guide to Dental Therapeutics.'
When not practicing dentistry, Dr. Wood can often be found either on a yoga mat or hiking her favorite trails with her husband Brad and puppy Hemingway. She makes a goal to participate in dental mission trips to the underserved corners of the world and loves immersing herself in the local cultures. In addition to English, she speaks Spanish, Ukrainian and Russian.
Dr. George Kesten has been practicing dentistry since 1973. His wealth of experience and his schedule of continuing education keeps him current with any advances and improvements in the field of dentistry.
Dr. Kesten was a scholarship graduate of Queens College, City University of New York in 1969 and then earned a DDS at Howard University in Washington D.C. He graduated with honors and awards in Clinical Diagnosis and in Surgery in 1973.
Dr. Kesten is one of Washingtonian Magazine's Top Dentists. He was recognized by Consumer Reports and Checkbook Magazine, Consumer Research Council of America, Angie's List, and had an A rating on Doctoroogle.
Dr. Nahal Golpayegani (Dr Golpa to her staff and patients) was raised in Germany. She moved to the United States when she was 12 years old and grew up in Rockville, Maryland. After earning her bachelors degree in Molecular biology, Cell biology, and Genetics from the University of Maryland, Dr. Golpayegani received her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Maryland Dental School in Baltimore.
Following dental school, Dr. Golpayegani was heavily involved in community service through the Medical Mission of Mercy MMOM. Previous to the pandemic, she embarked on mission trips to provide free dental care to underserved populations in the Philippines.
Dr. Golpayegani has been practicing as a general dentist providing basic preventive care and restorative dentistry for over 9 years to both adults and children. She is Invisalign certified and can provide orthodontic treatment to adults who qualify.
Dr. Golpayegani strives to provide dental care that is tailored to your individual needs. Her dental philosophy allows for a relationship-based approach to care with a focus on minimally invasive and conservative techniques using the latest technology in dentistry. Her goal is to develop and maintain open communication, discussion, collaboration about each treatment plan in order to achieve the most comprehensive care possible.
Reviews
Rating 5.0 out of 5 based on 48 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestMaria C. Zieba
a year ago
My toddler loves his first dental experience. Dr Wood and staff put him at ease. Both his and my cleaning were very thorough!
M K
a year ago
I had absolutely horrible experience with my previous dental office. Dr. Maria Wood was able to fix the issues I got from my previous doctor. She also helped to create a treatment plan, and we are almost done with it. Couldn't be more happy about her! Very caring, trustworthy and knowledgeable. Office iv very clean, well organized, almost no waiting time for your appointment. P.S. Frond desk (Kimberly) is the sweetest :)
Mirashaye B
2 years ago
This dentist office is the absolute best. I've been going to university in DC and I needed to find a new dentist office and I am so glad I found this one! Kimberley at the reception desk was so helpful and patient with setting me up with my appointment as a new patient, and Neda was so kind and caring during my cleaning. I was very nervous to be in a new office and both of them especially made the experience so pleasant and welcoming. Neda was super informative about the steps I should be taking with taking care of my teeth and was so genuine. I would give this whole office 10 stars if I could!
Maja Galic
2 years ago
As I new patient, Im always little nervous coming to a new practice but staff at Smiles Elevated made me feel so welcome and comfortable. Hygienist, Neda was so wonderful and Dr Golpa very professional and nice. My next teeth cleaning is already scheduled. Thank you, Smile Elevated team.
Tamara Briabrin
2 years ago
Very friendly staff. Highly qualified doctors. Nice atmosphere in the office. Thank you.
Patrick Welteroth
2 years ago
Dr. Maria Wood at Smiles Elevated is truly one of a kind. I've never met such a passionate dentist who genuinely wants to help their patients no matter what dental baggage they bring to the table. Dr. Wood and the rest of her team make you feel like family from the moment you walk in their office. If you've ever been afraid or anxious to go to the dentist then Dr. Maria Wood is the dentist for you. There is such a thing as pain-free dentistry and I didn't realize until I met Dr. Maria Wood.
Sharon Lee
2 years ago
I greatly appreciate my experience at Smiles Elevated with Dr. Golpayegani and Dental Assistant Elena today. Any concern or question I had was discussed and answered in detail and with patience. Xrays were reviewed and options discussed. As Dr Golpa proceeded with the procedure her excellence and knowledge were apparent. I am very thankful that my daughter made me aware of this very positive, professional dental practice.
Kiki Burke
2 years ago
Easy scheduling, responsive and friendly front desk. Assistants/hygienist were all very pleasant and gentle!!! And dr wood was fantastic. I felt like she was very clear about what she was recommending and why. They take lots of photos of your teeth which I found helpful to see.
Ray Hill
2 years ago
Dr Wood is an expert. Can't speak highly enough about her care and skill.
Shaina Egly
2 years ago
Dr. Wood is an exceptional dentist who listens to the patient and wants to understand their needs and ailments - she will not treat you like a number. Nowadays, it's very rare to find any practitioner that takes time to communicate honestly and openly, and Dr. Wood is that gem! I enthusiastically recommend anyone searching for their next dentist to consider her.
Jane O'Donnell
2 years ago
Dr. Wood is an excellent Dentist and really cares about her patients.
Emma Honore
2 years ago
I love love love this office! I am a new patient and everyone was so kind, considerate and helpful! They explained everything and were very gentle. They are very COVID-conscious and made me feel safe. Would highly recommend this office! EDIT: I came back recently to get cavity fillings done and I had another great experience. Dr Wood called me personally later that day to check up on my healing. I wish I could give 6 stars!
Eleni
2 years ago
My daughter, a patient at Smiles Elevated, recommended Dr. Maria Wood to me. So far I have been there three times, and I can say that Dr. Wood is the best dentist I have ever seen. She is also very friendly and accommodating. Dr. Wood makes sure her patients understand everything she is doing and answers all their questions, even those of an elderly woman like me. From the moment you enter the door of her suite, you are greeted warmly by Kimberley at the front desk. And from there you are in the very capable hands of Dr. Wood and those of her assistants. I would enthusiastically recommend Dr. Wood to anyone looking for highly competent dental care in a most comfortable setting.
Manisha Shrestha
2 years ago
I highly recommend Dr.. Woods. I have always had great experience with her.. She is very gentle and knowledgeable with all the dental and cosmetic procedures. She is also very skilled at botox and have had great results
Leila Siddiky
2 years ago
Dr. Wood and her staff are simply amazing! Her care for patients, knowledge, and professionalism are the best I've ever seen. Anyone would be so incredibly lucky to be in her care.
Elissa Carney
2 years ago
Dr. Maria Wood is wonderful! She was attentive and made me feel at ease. Her teeth cleaning was extremely effective yet very gentle! She developed a short term and long term plan for my dental health that I am really happy with and that suits my lifestyle. It's clear that Dr. Wood really cares about her patients.
Inmaculada Toro Munoz
2 years ago
Dr. Wood is not only a great doctor but also a great person. If you are looking for a positive experience in a dental office, definitely she can help you make it true! She takes her time educating patient regarding dental care. After I saw her for the first time, I realized how important is oral hygiene. Now I can say my smile is much better and my personal confidence increased thanks to her. Recommended 100%.
Yoselin A.
2 years ago
Dr. Maria Wood is the best dentist ever I 100% recommend her.
Tomas Jose Balino
2 years ago
Yesterday I went to this practice for the first time since Dr. Kesten retired. I was very pleased. Reda, the hygienist, did an excellent job. Dr. Wood went tooth by tooth, pointing to me any problems and explaining what action, if any, she would recommend. In sum, it was a great experience.
Sara K
2 years ago
Dr. Woods is so gentle, so happy her office is close by.
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