Meet our Doctors

Pediatric Dentistry

  • Wesley Barton, DMD | Dental Director
    Diplomate, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, Top Dentist 2022

    The best way to protect a child's smile for life is ensuring he or she has a good experience at the dentist starting at the earliest possible age. By making each visit playful, educational, and trust building, I strive to form a lifelong connection with patients and parents alike.

    I grew up in Scarsdale, NY, and went on to complete my undergraduate education at Emory University in Atlanta, GA, with a Bachelor of Arts in Education and a Bachelor of Science in Biology. I received my DMD degree from The University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine in 2007, where I graduated in the top three percent of my class. I joined The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics in 2009 after completing a pediatric residency at the University of Rochester Eastman Dental Center.

    As a person who believes that education is a lifelong journey, I completed examinations to become board certified in pediatric dentistry in 2011, and completed a two year orthodontic program with Progressive Orthodontics in 2013. Being a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Dental Association, I am always learning about the newest advances in pediatric dentistry, so that my patients can receive the most up to date treatment.

    In my limited spare time, I enjoy spending time with my wife and our daughter Mila and son Grayson, traveling, and trying new restaurants. I joined The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics in 2009 after completing a pediatric residency at the University of Rochester Eastman Dental Center and became a partner in the practice in 2012.

  • Ronen Krausz, DDS | Dental Director
    Diplomate, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, Top Dentist 2022

    Working at The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics allows me to be a positive influence in one of the most exciting, evolving, and challenging phases of a young person’s life. Interacting with the kids keeps me up to date, involved, and on my toes every day. I feel incredibly lucky to be able to say I enjoy my job, take great pride in my work, and feel very gratified with my contribution to society.

    Every job I have had from high school to the present day has involved working with children. As an after-school and summer-camp counselor, I had the opportunity to mentor, guide, and support children in a social environment, helping them develop interpersonal skills, self confidence, and a sense of responsibility for one’s own actions. I always found great satisfaction in guiding children onto a path of mutual respect, honesty, and self responsibility. As a pediatric dentist I have the ability to shape my patients’ attitudes about dental care and oral health for the rest of their lives through positive experiences they have in our office.

    Earning my postgraduate degree at Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine brought me to New England after attaining my dental degree from the University of Southern California School of Dentistry. I am a diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.

    The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics for me is like a home away from home, and the staff there is like my extended family.

    Dr. Ronen Krausz was awarded Top Dentist 2022 by Boston Magazine.

  • Bahar Houshmand, DDS
    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.

  • Ava Ghassemi, DMD
    Pediatric Dentist

    I was born and raised in Dover, Massachusetts and graduated from Tufts Dental as a Pediatric Dentist. I provide compassionate care to children of all ages. I am passionate about promoting good oral hygiene habits and preventing dental problems. I am committed to creating a positive and comfortable experience for each patient.

  • Mahdieh Beheshti, DMD
    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.


Orthodontics

  • Roger Taylor, DMD
    Orthodontist, Dr. Roger Taylor was awarded Top Dentist 2022 by Boston Magazine.

    One of the greatest pleasures is being able to improve a patient's self esteem. Being an orthodontist not only allows me the opportunity to straighten teeth and correct bites, but it also allows me to improve a patient's sense of self. I knew from a young age that I wanted to pursue a career in healthcare. Never did I realize how rewarding orthodontics would be.

    I am an identical twin and grew up in Miami, the youngest of three boys. I attended the University of Florida, and continued my studies at their College of Dentistry. While in Dental School, I served as President of my class and represented the University at the International Association for Dental Research to present my findings in orthodontic research. I then attended Boston University where I received my Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in Orthodontics in 1993. After graduating from my orthodontic residency, I returned to Florida and opened an orthodontic practice with my twin brother (yes, he's also an orthodontist) in Boca Raton. I practiced in South Florida for 17 years and treated both children and adults.

    Missing the change in seasons and all the wonderful things that New England has to offer, I decided to relocate back to Boston where I was fortunate enough to join The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics. In my spare time, I enjoy hiking, skiing, traveling, and exercising.

  • Shaima Tabari, DDS
    Orthodontist

    Dr. Shaima Tabari completed her 4-year doctorate program in orthodontics from the Harvard School of Dental Medicine with her thesis focusing on Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Patients visit her for reasons such as Invisalign, braces and follow-ups on a range of other orthodontic treatment procedures. Dr. Tabari strives to provide patients with a holistic individualized treatment plan which best complements and enhances their quality of life. Dr. Tabari is an American Board of Orthodontics Certified Orthodontist.

    In her spare time, Dr. Tabari is an avid skier licensed in avalanche search and rescue operations. She also enjoys learning new languages and can speak English, French, Farsi, Arabic, Spanish and Icelandic.


Oral Surgery

  • Brett Paredes, MD, DMD

    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.


Meet Our Team

Our team is friendly and caring. It is everyone's goal to make our patients and their parents relaxed and comfortable, while also having fun. You will immediately feel your family is in good hands. We invite you to sit back, relax, and observe how we "Develop Positive Attitudes for Healthy Smiles" for your child.

  • Ashley Cook
    Practice Administrator

    Growing up in a dental office owned by my father, some of my earliest childhood memories include sitting at his desk pretending to manage the practice. Fast forward to adulthood, and life has come full-circle. I have always had a passion for working with children, and initially attended the University of Massachusetts with the intent of becoming an elementary educator. It wasn’t long before I found myself redirecting my career path to a focus in business management. Since 2007, I have been growing my passion for leadership as both a single and multi-unit manager in the cosmetic and medical fields. I feel very fortunate to have found The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics, as it truly feels like a “coming home” for me. It has been an honor to lead this incredible team since 2020, and I look forward to the many years to come. In my spare time I enjoy painting, cooking, traveling, and spending time with my family and friends.

  • Joyce Fadous
    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.

  • Marlo Wong
    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.

  • Bridget Mastin
    Administrative Supervisor

    I am new to the dental world, and The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics has taught me so much and helps me continue to grow. I have always had a love for customer service, and although working the front desk is much different, it still gives me the opportunity to interact with the patients with my friendly personality. When I’m not working, I enjoy activities with family and friends, crafting, and traveling.

  • Reagan Bennett
    Scheduling Coordinator

    I recently moved to the Boston area from Colorado, where I studied at Suffolk University. I have a background in childcare, and I am excited to grow my skills with The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics. In my spare time I enjoy listening to Taylor Swift and exploring the city.

  • Irina Rakhunov
    Dental Hygienist

    Having grown up around dentistry, becoming a dental hygienist felt so natural! I love meeting new people and teaching my patients how to properly care for their teeth and overall oral health. I received my Bachelor’s degree and graduated cum laude from the Forsyth Dental Hygiene Program in 2009. I am extremely excited to join The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics as it was the first office I took my daughter to for her preventative dental care. I instantly fell in love with the practice and felt so grateful to the entire staff for providing such a warm, friendly and welcoming atmosphere for both my daughter and myself. I feel so lucky to now be a part of this fantastic team! In my spare time, I love spending time with my husband, our two girls and our two English bulldogs, Lily and Mason!

  • Angie Collins
    Dental Hygienist

    Helping kids have positive dental experiences is something I’m proud to have done for almost 40 years! And I love what I do!  It’s been a joy for me to watch so many children grow up, from age two through college and beyond.  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 with children, 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.   I was actually able to train and run the Boston Marathon in April 2023.

  • Hanna Cho
    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.

  • Sara Bacon
    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.

  • Lisa Hintlian
    Dental Hygienist

    When beginning my career as a dental hygienist, I knew my true passion would be with working with children and their oral health.  Learning healthy habits at a young age is truly important and starts with creating a healthy dental home.  Truly, I have been so grateful to work at The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics since 2012.  Working with some of the best dental professionals here has given me the opportunity to help create a healthy collaboration between the patient, their parents, and our dental team. I absolutely love seeing our patients excited to visit and walk out with the largest smiles on their faces!  I attended Saint Anselm College for my Bachelors degree and continued to pursue my dental hygiene degree with honors at Middlesex Community College.  During my free time, I am always out and about with my family including my King Charles Cavalier Spaniel, Tucker! We all love to go to the beach, hike, and travel whenever we can.

  • Jordan McLaughlin
    Dental Hygienist

    I am passionate about educating children on 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 to travel and have lived in several states, but I am thrilled to be back in Boston. I love working with children and am excited to share my love of dental hygiene with the Brookline community, creating a lifetime of healthy smiles. Outside of the office, I enjoy reading, running, and exploring state and national parks with my family.

  • Emily Birney
    Dental Hygienist

    Joining The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics has been an incredibly exciting start to my career in the dental field. I am originally from Wallingford, Connecticut, and I moved to Boston to persue my education at the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. Graduating at the top of my class, I obtained my Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene from Forsyth School of Dental Hygiene. Living in Boston has been a wonderful experience, and I have thoroughly enjoyed exploring the city. In my free time, I like to spend time with friends and family, attend Red Sox games, walk my two dogs, and go for runs. Discovering The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics has filled me with immense excitement, and I am eagerly looking forward to collaborating with everyone on the team!

  • Meredith Bonugli
    Dental Hygienist

    I recently graduated from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences with a Bachelor's of Science in Dental Hygiene. This is my first full time position as a hygienist and I could not be happier working at The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics with such a positive and supportive team. I love being able to work with children of all ages and hope to give them a positive experience while teaching them healthy oral habits. Outside of work I enjoy exploring new places with my dog and spending time with family and friends. 

  • Maria Rodriguez
    Dental Assistant / Clinical Supervisor

    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.

  • Chau Pham
    Lead 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.

  • Ingrid Fortin
    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.

  • Kaitlyn Boyd
    Certified Dental Assistant

    For the past 5 years, I have been lucky enough to be a part of such a wonderful team here at The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics. Each doctor helps to make such a great experience for each patient, delivering a fun and friendly environment. My goal as a Dental Assistant is to always help the children feel comfortable and engaged, looking forward to their future dental visits! I grew up in New Hampshire and currently live in Boston. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my husky, Daisy, and traveling with friends and family.

  • Fareeha Yousaf
    Dental Assistant

    Bio coming soon

  • Mentewab Taye
    Dental Assistant

    Bio coming soon

  • Carlos Tavares
    Oral Surgery Assistant

    Bio coming soon.

  • Jacinda Frye
    Orthodontic Assistant

    Being an orthodontic assistant has given me so much joy over the years allowing me to care for others and making them feel comfortable while being in the chair. Watching the transition from when the patient first sits in the chair to the very last appointment, is what makes being an orthodontic assistant even more exciting. The change in the teeth is not just something that the orthodontist and I see, but the patient gets to be a part of the whole experience which is really nice. The Center for Pediatric Dental Care & Orthodontics is very warm and welcoming making coming to work one of the highlights of my day. The other highlight is being a Mom to a energetic, happy, vibrant, playful 4 year old. I enjoy spending time with my family when I’m outside of work. I was born and raised in Boston and am very fortunate to be a part of a state with the best medical field.

  • Marie Caira
    Orthodontic Assistant

    Joining the Center for Pediatric Care and Orthodontics has truly been an honor. Our team is comprised of fun, kind and warm professional individuals. I have been involved in Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry for many years and love my profession. When not in the office, I enjoy cooking, going to the beach and spending time with my children.

  • Britney Morse
    Orthodontic Assistant, Oral Surgery Assistant

    Working at The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics as an Orthodontic Assistant has been such fun! Seeing kids excited about their new smiles is the best part of my job. Although they may not enjoy the journey of their braces, seeing them leave the day of removal with a new sense of confidence is really cool. I love creating a happy, friendly environment for all patients and staff here at The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics. Outside of work, my daughter and two fur babies keep me busy! Traveling, exercising, and trying new restaraunts/food are some of my favortite things!

  • Cheydie Otero
    Orthodontic Scheduling Coordinator

    Hi, my name is Cheydie. I was born and raised in Boston, Massachusetts and have been working in the dental field since 2015. I have recently had the pleasure of joining The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics as a member of the Orthodontic team. It has been amazing being a part of a team whos Orthodontist has won many awards, including most recently Top Orthodontist by Boston Magazine. I am very passionate about helping others. During my free time I like making treats; like chocolate covered Oreos and Rice Krispies. I also enjoy spending time with my family, taking pictures and going to Fenway park to watch the Red Sox play!

  • Ryan Schaefer
    Scheduling Coordinator

    Although this is my first experience working in the dental world, being a part of the administrative team has taught me a lot about our practice. I graduated college with a degree in Business Finance, and I look forward to expanding my knowledge in the pediatric dental field. I've always loved working with children, and seeing a smile on their face makes my day. When I am not working, I am hangout out with family and friends, or you can find me doing my favorite hobby which is playing softball throughout the week.

  • Kelsey Wang
    Scheduling Coordinator

    When I started working at The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics, I immediately felt very welcome as a member of the team. I enjoy seeing the children’s faces everyday when they walk into the practice. In my free time I enjoy traveling and spending time with my family.  

  • Nathan ("Nate") Zapalik
    Scheduling Coordinator

    Bio coming soon


Contact Us Today

Our Location

Hours of Operation

Office Hours

Monday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

lunch: 1 - 2

Tuesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

lunch: 1 - 2

Wednesday:

8:00 am-6:00 pm

lunch: 1 - 2

Thursday:

7:30 am-4:00 pm

lunch: 1 - 1:30

Friday:

7:30 am-4:00 pm

lunch: 1 - 1:30

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed