The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics logo
Drs. Weiss, Barton, Krausz, Mermelstein, Brambila & Taylor
1560 Beacon Street | Brookline, MA 02446
Call Us! 617-731-5437

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Our Team

Pediatric Dentistry

Wesley Barton, DMD

Diplomate, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

Pediatric dentist - Dr. Barton 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.

Dr. Wesley Barton was awarded Top Dentist by Boston Magazine 2022.

Ronen Krausz, DDS

Diplomate, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

Pediatric dentist - Dr. Krausz 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

Pediatric dentist - Dr. HoushmandDr. 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

Pedodontist

Pediatric dentist - Dr. Ava GhassemiShe 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.




Mahdieh Beheshti, DMD

Pediatric dentist - Dr. Mahdieh BeheshtiDr. 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

Dr. Roger Taylor was awarded Top Dentist 2022 by Boston Magazine.

Orthodontists - Dr. Taylor 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.

Oral Surgery

Brett Paredes, MD, DMD

Orthodontists - Dr. 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.

Our Staff

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.



Nicole Chouangpraseuth, Administrative Coordinator

Nicole - 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.

Joyce Fadous, Orthodontic Treatment Coordinator

Joyce, 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

Marlo, Orthodontic Assistant 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.

Tori Tosti, Administrative

Tori, Orthodontic Assistant I have always enjoyed being around children. The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics has given me the opportunity to combine my passion for children into my professional life. I was initially introduced to the practice by one of the dental hygienists who always spoke about how lucky she was to work in such a welcoming environment. I am very lucky to be part of such a great team. I grew up in Westerly, Rhode Island and recently moved to the Boston area. When I'm not in the office, I enjoy spending time with my dog, gardening and going to the beach with my friends and family.

Bridget Mastin, Administrative

Bridget Mastin, Administrative 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.

Haley, Orthodontic Administrative

Haley, Administrative 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 started working here fresh out of college with very little knowledge of dentistry. Since then, I have been able to grow so much in my understanding of dentistry and I have been able to see up close how a successful practice is run. And also, I love getting to interact with all the kiddos that come to the office! When I’m not at work, I enjoy reading, spending time with friends and family, cooking, and crafting.


Hygiene Team

Irina, Dental Hygienist

Irina, 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, Registered Dental Hygienist

Angie - 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.

Hanna Cho, Registered Dental Hygienist

Hanna - 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.

Sara Bacon, Registered Dental Hygienist

Sara - 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.

Lisa Hintlian, Registered Dental Hygienist

Lisa - 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.

Jordan McLaughlin, Dental Hygienist

Jordan McLaughlin, 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.

Jasmin Gallup, Dental Hygienist

Jasmin Gallup, 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.

Clinical Assisting Team

Maria Rodriguez, Dental Assistant

Maria - 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.

Berto Castro, Orthodontic/Dental Assistant

Berto - 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, Sterilization Tech/Dental Assistant

Chau - 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

Ingrid Fortin, 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, Certified Dental Assistant

Kaitlyn, Orthodontic Assistant It is with great pleasure to be joining such a fantastic group of colleagues here at the center of pediatric dental care and orthodontics! I just recently moved to the Boston area from Atkinson NH where I’ve grown up all my life but have always really enjoyed Boston. While living in New Hampshire I attended New Hampshire Technical Institute and graduated May 2016 with my dental assisting certificate. I’ve been working with children since and have always loved the pediatric field. I enjoy making sure children have a fun and positive dental visit and look forward to getting a chance to meet you!

Mirna, Orthodontic Assistant

Mirna, Orthodontic Assistant I am originally from Mexico where I got my dental degree. I moved from Mexico to Florida for several years, and now call Boston my home. I really love all that Boston has to offer.

Working in the dental field is very rewarding. Seeing how confident a patient becomes after orthodontic treatment finishes gives me motivation to do my best job. In my spare time I enjoy hiking and traveling with my husband.

Jacinda, Orthodontic Assistant

Jacinda, 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, Orthodontic Assistant

Marie, 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.