PEDIATRIC DENTAL CARE - Key Persons


Angie Collins

Job Titles:
  • Registered Dental Hygienist
Helping kids have positive dental experiences is something I'm proud to have done for over 30 years and I still love what I do! It's been a joy for me to watch so many children grow up from age two through college. The greatest compliment is seeing these patients from my past, who are now parents themselves, bringing their children to see our team for their dental care. Over the years, I feel I've contributed to their health, and I have grown as a hygienist, a person, a mother and now even a grandmother. Dental hygiene has been a truly rewarding profession for me and as a parent, I can relate to the families in the practice and share my life experiences with them. Now that my two daughters are married, doing well and moving on in their lives, I have more time to have fun and take care of myself. I enjoy spending time with my husband Jack and our children and grandchildren, running (Jack & I are planning to finish a marathon together in 2021) and traveling.

Ava Ghassemi

Job Titles:
  • Dentist
  • Pedodontist
She is a graduate of Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, where she received her DDM and completed a pediatric dental residency. Dr. Ghassemi is a dedicated pediatric dentist and is committed to providing personalized patient care through quality service, communication, and compassion.

Berto Castro

Job Titles:
  • Orthodontic / Dental Assistant
I may seem very familiar as I used to work with the pediatric dentists in our practice. In the summer of 2015, I decided to expand my skill set by joining our orthodontist Dr. Taylor. I take great pride in promoting beautiful and healthy smiles. I was born and raised in a neighborhood just outside of Brookline called Mission Hill. I love my neighborhood and couldn't imagine living anywhere else. In my spare time I love watching and playing sports, and spending time with my big family.

Chau Pham

Job Titles:
  • Sterilization Tech / Dental Assistant
I joined The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics in 2011, and what I enjoy most about working here is how exciting every day is. I really enjoy working with the team. The warm faces of the children make this a very special place. They bring a smile to everybody's face, and this makes the office feel like one big community. I am proud to know that we can make the dental office fun! When I have free time, I love to spend time with my family and my lovely nephew. I like reading, traveling, and cooking "Asian" food.

Dr. Bahar Houshmand

Job Titles:
  • Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Bahar Houshmand received her DDS degree from Shahid Beheshti University. She continued her education at Stony Brook University and University of Washington where she obtained her Master's degree and second dental degree respectively. Dr. Houshmand completed her pediatric residency training at University of Connecticut Health Center and Connecticut Children`s Medical Center. After completing her residency program, Dr. Houshmand was honored to join University of Connecticut Pediatric Dentistry department as full-time faculty. She was privileged to teach clinical and didactic courses to dental students and pediatric dentistry residents for the past few years. Dr. Houshmand strongly believes in education and creating a positive relationship with parents and their children. She enjoys interacting with kids and listening to their priceless stories. She treats her patients with respect and patience, as if they are members of her family. In her spare time, Dr. Houshmand likes to spend time with family and friends. She enjoys painting, reading and all outdoor activities. Dr. Houshmand is a member of the American Association of Pediatric Dentistry and is a diplomate of American board of pediatric dentistry.

Dr. Brett Paredes

Dr. Brett Paredes was born and raised outside of Boston, Massachusetts. After receiving his Bachelor's degree in 1993 from Occidental College in Los Angeles, California, he returned to his hometown to pursue the same career path as his father. He studied dentistry at Tufts University, where he earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree in 1997. Dr. Paredes then moved to South Florida where over the next six years, he would complete his internship and residency in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at Jackson Memorial Hospital and the University of Miami. During this time, he concurrently attended the University of Miami School of Medicine, where he earned his Doctor of Medicine degree in 2001. Once completing his surgical residency in 2003, Dr. Paredes furthered his training with an additional one-year fellowship in the Department of Anesthesiology at UM/Jackson Memorial Hospital. Dr. Paredes has belonged to several professional organizations during his years in private practice. He is an active member of the American Dental Association, Massachusetts Dental Society, Florida Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, and past president of the Miami Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. He is a Fellow of both the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, and the American Dental Society of Anesthesia. He is a Diplomate of both the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, and the National Dental Board of Anesthesiology. Dr. Paredes maintains certification in basic life support, advanced cardiac life support, as well as pediatric advanced cardiac life support. He also maintains active hospital privileges. After working and living in South Florida for the past 25 years, he is happy to have returned home to Massachusetts.

Dr. Mahdieh Beheshti

Job Titles:
  • Certified Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Mahdieh Beheshti is a board-certified pediatric dentist and a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. She completed her dental school and graduated from a pediatric dentistry residency in Iran. After relocating to the United States, she continued her education at the Advanced Standing Program at Boston University, Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, where upon graduation was inducted into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon (OKU) National Dental Honor Society for her outstanding and exemplary academic standing. She repeated her training in pediatric dentistry at NYC Health + Hospitals / Jacobi Medical Center, a level I trauma center and the only pediatric trauma center in the Bronx and southern Westchester, New York, and in affiliation with the Albert Einstein College of Medicine. She is a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, and the College of Diplomates. She strives to provide optimal care for her patients and has a profound passion for helping children enjoy a positive, successful experience within the dental environment. She loves the art of dentistry with professional interests in esthetic dentistry and creating a beautiful smile, as well as constantly striving to provide the best treatment for her patients. During her free time, Dr. Beheshti loves baking and professional cake decorating, reading, yoga, and spending time with her family.

Dr. Roger Taylor

Job Titles:
  • Dentist
Dr. Roger Taylor was awarded Top Dentist 2022 by Boston Magazine.

Dr. Ronen Krausz

Job Titles:
  • Dentist
Dr. Ronen Krausz was awarded Top Dentist 2022 by Boston Magazine.

Dr. Samuel Shames

Job Titles:
  • Dentists

Dr. Wesley Barton

Job Titles:
  • Dentist
Dr. Wesley Barton was awarded Top Dentist by Boston Magazine 2022.

Hanna Cho

Job Titles:
  • Registered Dental Hygienist
As a dental hygienist, I see children in our practice grow confidently with their smile. I understand the importance of involving both children and their parents in creating a dental home, and I am always looking to create a positive dental experience. I was born and raised in a small suburb outside of Seattle, Washington, and attended Seattle University where I received my Bachelor's degree. After college, I moved to Boston and received my hygiene degree with honors at Forsyth Dental Hygiene. I've had the privilege of meeting some amazing families since joining this office in 2007. In my spare time, I enjoy watching football (Go Seahawks!) and spending time with my husband and 2 kids.

Ingrid Fortin

Job Titles:
  • Certified Dental Assistant
I joined the office in February 2016. I've worked in dentistry for 10 years, I truly enjoy working with such a wonderful and professional team. The doctors and staff provide an amazing and positive dental experience for all of our patients. In my spare time I enjoy working out, going on long walks with my dog, Sammy, and listening to music.

Jasmin Gallup

Job Titles:
  • Dental Hygienist
The most rewarding part of being a pediatric dental hygienist is teaching children healthy oral habits from a young age that they continue to carry with them throughout their lives! I am very fortunate to be a part of a stellar team who specializes in creating a positive experience for both children and parents while having fun, too. Originally from Connecticut, I received my Bachelors of Science in Dental Hygiene from the Fones School of Dental Hygiene in Bridgeport, CT, the first school of dental hygiene in the world. I then moved to Northern VA for a change of scenery, and my family and the beautiful New England seasons brought me back up North to Boston, where I now reside. In my free time, I enjoy traveling to new countries, hiking, discovering new restaurants and shopping.

Jordan McLaughlin

Job Titles:
  • Dental Hygienist
I love educating children about their oral hygiene and instilling positive habits that they can use throughout their lives. Originally from Northern California, I received my Bachelors of Science in Dental Hygiene at New York University College of Dentistry in 2013. I love travel and have lived in several different states, but I am thrilled to be back with The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics. I love working with children and am excited to share my love of dental hygiene with the Boston community creating a lifetime of healthy smiles. Outside of the office, I enjoy reading, doing yoga, exploring state and national parks, and working out.

Joyce Fadous

Job Titles:
  • Orthodontic Treatment Coordinator
I have worked in orthodontics for many years and love seeing patients take the journey through getting braces and having a beautiful smile. A beautiful smile helps one build self-confidence. Dr. Taylor and his orthodontic staff are exceptional in displaying kindness and understanding at every appointment. I am fortunate to say I love my job and the people I work with. I am greeted every morning with a smile by staff members who are always willing to help out. When I'm not working, I enjoy traveling with my husband, socializing with my friends and spinning.

Lisa Hintlian

Job Titles:
  • Registered Dental Hygienist
By helping children create good dental habits that lead to a healthy smile, I believe I can help build their confidence. The friendly, motivating staff at The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics all help in doing what is best for each patient. I obtained my Bachelor's degree from Saint Anselm College and then obtained my dental hygiene degree with honors at Middlesex Community College. Outside of the office, I enjoy spending time with my family.

Maria Rodriguez

Job Titles:
  • Dental Assistant
It amazes me how a positive first dental experience can shape a child's dental future. I truly enjoy working in our office. We have a great team filled with fun and professional individuals. Working in a pediatric practice gives us the opportunity to meet children at a young age and establish good habits. I love to work with kids, and that is the main reason I chose a pediatric office. I came to The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics in July 2010. I have the pleasure of having two beautiful twin girls and handsome son who are my life. I love spending time with my friends and family.

Marlo Wong

Job Titles:
  • Insurance Coordinator
The efficiency, operation and professionalism of this practice has impressed me since the first day I began working here. The staff is very caring and supportive to both the families that enter our doors as well as to the each other. Outside of the office, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, exercising and baking.

Nicole Chouangpraseuth

Job Titles:
  • Administrative Coordinator
Working at the Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics for over 17 years has given me the opportunity for growth and development both professionally and personally. I am very fortunate to work with such devoted team members (administratively and clinically) who take pride in what they do, in providing the best dental care to our patient families. I believe having great work ethic and always striving to be the best that you can be will continue to open doors for new career advancements and personal fulfillment. Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, playing softball, reading, being with friends and family, and enjoying being a first-time auntie to the most adorable little nephew.

Sara Bacon

Job Titles:
  • Registered Dental Hygienist
The most rewarding part of working in pediatric dentistry is knowing that I have the ability to introduce oral health to children in a positive light, starting from their very first visit. This is something I wished I had experienced as a child. I grew up in a small town in southern Vermont where my family still resides. I moved to Boston in 2005 to attend college. I graduated with honors from Mount Ida College with my degree in dental hygiene. I started working at The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics in October 2007. I love being a part of this team of caring dental professionals who strive to make every dental experience a positive one. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, taking Zumba and Kickboxing classes, and traveling.