Meet our Doctors

Pediatric Dentistry

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

    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.

  • 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.

  • Yi Ju Tsai, DMD
    Pediatric Dentist

    Dr. Tsai earned a degree of Dental Surgery from the University in Taiwan before earning a Doctor of Dental Medicine from Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine.

    Dr. Tsai is affiliated with the College of Diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, and American Dental Association.

  • Derek Nobrega, DMD
    Pediatric Dentist

    Dr. Derek was born and raised in Rhode Island. He attended Providence College where he graduated with a B.S. in Biology and was a member of the men's soccer team. Following graduation, Dr. Derek worked at Brown University as a research assistant for two years before deciding to pursue his dental education at Tufts University in Boston, MA. While in dental school, he served as Class Secretary, was a member of the Hispanic Dental Association, and acted as co-leader of the Tufts AAPD Pre-Doctoral Chapter. He continued to participate in scientific research during dental school and was a member of the Robert R. Andrews Research Honor Society. During his third year in dental school, Dr. Derek completed a five-week externship at the pediatric dental clinic at St. Joseph Hospital for Specialty Care in Providence, RI where his passion for working with children was confirmed.

    Dr. Derek completed his two-year Advanced Education in Pediatric Dentistry at the NYU Langone Dental Medicine Pediatric Dentistry Program in RI where he worked closely with the Craniofacial Team at Hasbro Children's Hospital. Dr. Derek served as the pediatric dentist on the Hasbro Craniofacial Team from 2014-2020 and was an Attending Dentist at St. Joseph Hospital during the same time. He has worked in private practice south of Boston for the last 12 years. Dr. Derek is a Board Certified Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, and  a member of the College of Diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the Massachusetts Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association, and the Massachusetts Dental Society. 

    Dr. Derek currently lives in Milton with his wife Janelle, daughter Celia, and son Miles. He enjoys spending time with his family, coaching soccer and basketball, playing and watching sports (especially soccer), listening to music, running, and experiencing all that Boston has to offer.


Orthodontics

  • Roger Taylor, DMD
    Orthodontist, Boston's Top Dentist 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.

  • Shahrzad Khorashadi, DMD
    Orthodontist

    I'm so excited to be working at The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics.

    After graduating from The Harvard School of Dental Medicine, I completed my orthodontic specialty training at Tufts University.

    Since then, I have served as a part time clinical instructor at The Harvard School of Dental Medicine teaching orthodontics.

    I look forward to sharing my deep appreciation for the artistry involved in crafting beautiful smiles with our patients.


Oral Surgery

  • Hamza Al Atassi , DMD
    Oral Surgeon

    Dr. Hamza Al Atassi is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, dedicated to delivering an elevated standard of clinical precision paired with deeply personalized care. Specializing heavily in wisdom teeth extraction and outpatient anesthesia, his core mission is to completely redefine the patient experience and prove that oral surgery does not have to be scary.


    Driven by a philosophy that balances surgical excellence with genuine empathy, Dr. Al Atassi focuses on transforming what is often an intimidating milestone into a seamless, reassuring process. He practices with a commitment to breaking away from the traditional, cold clinical environment, instead prioritizing a calm, sophisticated atmosphere where patient comfort and state-of-the-art safety seamlessly integrate. By combining modern surgical techniques with a tranquil approach, he ensures that every patient leaves feeling secure, cared for, and completely at ease.


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.

  • Liliana Duran
    Patient Care Representative

    Bio Coming Soon

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Angie Collins
    Dental Hygienist

    Helping kids have positive dental experiences is something I’m proud to have done for over 40 years now 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 woman, a hygienist, a mother and now 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,  traveling and running.   I was actually able to train and run the Boston Marathon in April 2023 and 2024. 

  • 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.

  • Kayla Falter
    Dental Hygienist

    I started my dental hygiene career here at The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics in 2018. I graduated from Middlesex Community College in 2018. I then furthered my education at Southern New Hampshire University graduating in 2019 with a Bachelor's in Health Sciences. I have developed such a passion for educating parents and children on the importance of starting great oral habits early on in life.  I have been the whitening specialist at The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics since 2023. One thing about my job is I love being able to help people achieve confidence in their smile. I truly believe a smile is the best accessory you can wear! I enjoy expanding my knowledge on the most up to date procedures and techniques on all of the whitening options to help fit everyone's needs! My favorite part of my job is laughing with the children every day and working with my best friend Kaitlyn who is a dental assistant here! The team here at The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics is absolutely amazing and I am so happy to be a part of it! In my free time I enjoy spending time with my husband, family, friends, and French Bulldog Rocky! I enjoy traveling the world, going to the beach, and trying new restaurants!  

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Sarah Moreira
    Orthodontic Assistant

    I’m passionate about working in orthodontics and love being an orthodontic assistant. I enjoy being part of a team that helps patients feel confident in their smiles while watching their progress throughout treatment. Before working in orthodontics, I worked as a pediatric dental assistant, where I developed a love for working with patients of all ages and helping them feel comfortable and cared for.

    Outside of work, I’m a creative person who enjoys arts and crafts, especially ceramics. I also love spending time outdoors, hiking, exploring new places, and traveling to state parks. I’m always looking for new adventures and opportunities to combine my creativity with my love for the outdoors.


Contact Us Today

Our Location

Hours of Operation

Office Hours

Monday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

lunch: 1 - 2

Tuesday:

7:00 am-5:00 pm

lunch: 1 - 2

Wednesday:

7:00 am-6:00 pm

lunch: 1 - 2

Thursday:

7:00 am-4:00 pm

lunch: 1 - 1:30

Friday:

7:00 am-4:00 pm

lunch: 1 - 1:30

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed