Dr. Barouir Deirmenjian
As a general dentist, Dr. Deirmenjian is devoted to providing quality, rewarding, and compassionate care to every patient that visits him. Serving as the founder and CEO of B. Deirmenjian and Affiliates, he serves patients at many multi-specialty facilities in California, including Los Angeles, San Gabriel Valley, Riverside and San Bernardino counties and has just added three new locations in the San Diego area.
With nineteen locations in California, B. Deirmenjian and Affiliates serve patients of all ages, from all backgrounds, and from every walk of life. The team of specialists, general dentists, assistants, and benefit coordinators offer a number of services, including: cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, endodontics, family dentistry, oral surgery, orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, and periodontics. They are dedicated to making dental care rewarding, so that individuals have a reason to share their smile.
Before entering private practice, Dr. Deirmenjian served as Dental Director at Guards Dental, where he demonstrated strong leadership skills in operating over 40 locations. Subsequently, he established his own family dental private practices, Smiles West Dental & Orthodontics, Desert Dental Group, and Ponderosa Dental Group.
To prepare for his career, he completed his undergraduate studies at the University of California at Irvine, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in 1988. Furthering his studies, he went on to obtain his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in 1999.
Remaining abreast of the latest dental developments, Dr. Deirmenjian is an active member of the American Dental Association and the California Dental Association. He is also a peer-review member at MetLife Insurance and Liberty Dental, sits on the advisory committee of Henry Schein Dental, is a UCLA adjunct professor, and is board-certified by the Dental Board of California.
Revered for his extensive 30+ year leadership background, Dr. Deirmenjian has been voted #100 on the Inc.5000 Series list of the Fastest-Growing Companies in California and #1528 of the Inc. 5000 Fastest-Growing Companies nationally. He was also named one of LA Business of the Year, Best Office by Insurance Companies, and one of the Emerging Dental Groups to Watch 2020 by Group Dentistry Now.
Dentistry, also known as Dental and Oral Medicine, is a branch of medicine that consists of the study, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases, disorders, and conditions of the oral cavity. Dentists diagnose and treat dental issues and help patients develop better oral hygiene regimens. They clean teeth, correct bite issues, perform surgeries and extractions, and perform other duties to ensure that the teeth and mouth are healthy.
An active member of his community, Dr. Deirmenjian truly enjoys helping the less fortunate and volunteering when he can with food drives and community outreach initiatives. Previously, he has participated in pro bono work for human trafficking victims in the Los Angeles area. He was also involved in a health fair head-start program, senior citizens program, and maintained an affiliation with Veteran Affairs.
In his spare time, he enjoys the outdoors. He is fluent in English, Armenian, Spanish, and French.
Dr. Elizabeth Chak
Dr. Elizabeth Chak grew up in Irvine, California where she attended University High School. She then went to University of California, San Diego where she received her bachelor’s degree in biochemistry. Dr. Chak earned her Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry from Temple University, Maurice H. Kornberg School of Dentistry in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 2017.
Upon graduation, Dr. Chak practiced general dentistry in Pennsylvania for one year and then returned to California where she continued her career. She has ample of experience in general and cosmetic dentistry, as well as pediatric dentistry.
Dr. Chak spends her free time practicing in the ballet studio, going to the beach, and cuddling with her two fluffy dogs.
Dr. Jamie Gochez
Dr. Jaime Gochez is a dedicated and experienced general dentist, working within our practice since February 2020. Born and raised in San Salvador, El Salvador, Dr. Gochez’s passion for the dental field began in childhood, with dreams of becoming a doctor or dentist. Fulfilling this ambition, he graduated with a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from the National University of El Salvador in July 1987. His pursuit of excellence led him to obtain a DDS license from the California Dental Board in August 1992, marking the beginning of his illustrious career in the United States.
Beyond his formal education, Dr. Gochez is committed to continual learning, having attended various continuing education courses in oral surgery, periodontia, endodontia, orthodontia, California law, infection control, and HIPAA. His affiliations with the Punjabi Dental Association and the California Dental Association reflect his dedication to staying connected and updated in his field.
Dr. Gochez finds immense joy in his profession, particularly in interacting with patients. He takes pride in meticulously explaining treatment plans and showcasing the progress, ultimately witnessing the happiness and satisfaction of his patients upon completion of their treatments. The team-oriented environment at his current practice aligns perfectly with his values, enhancing patient outcomes and satisfaction.
Outside the office, Dr. Gochez enjoys being a “handyman,” engaging in various home projects that showcase his skill and creativity. His personal life is enriched by the company of his wife and their beloved pets, Duke, a Shih Tzu, and Watson, a German Shepherd/Labrador mix, who bring joy and companionship to their home.
Dr. Michael Vongphoe
Dr. Michael Vongphoe, DDS attended the University of Southern California. As his patient, he will do his best to treat you like family. This includes a transparent and thorough assessment of your dental issues, a clear discussion of your options and most importantly, a quick and pain-free experience. Dr. Vongphoe is a member of the ADA, CDA and the AAE (American Association of Endodontists).
Outside of the office, he enjoys traveling and spending time with his family.
Dr. Kevin S. Lee
Dr. Kevin S. Lee, DDS, MS, attended Stanford University and earned a BA in human biology. He soon after went to the UCLA School of Dentistry. He then completed his residency at the UCLA section of orthodontics (orthodontics certificate), earned his Master’s at the UCLA School of Dentistry (MS in Oral Biology) and his American Board of Orthodontics Certification. During his dental education, Dr. Lee became fascinated by human craniofacial development and decided to pursue orthodontics, which is the clinical specialty closely related to growth and development of the head. He is a member of the American Board of Orthodontics, the American Association of Orthodontists, the Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists, the International Association for Dental Research, the American Association for Dental Research and the American Dental Association.
Outside of the office, Dr. Lee enjoys playing and watching soccer (he is an avid FC Barcelona fan), soaking up the California sunshine, traveling and driving sports cars (he is a Porsche fanatic).
Dr. Nareg Alexandrian
Dr. Nareg Alexandrian completed his bachelor’s degree in biology at Bichat University in France and received his dental surgery degree from Saint-Joseph University in Beirut, Lebanon, in 1996. After practicing general dentistry for two years, he was accepted into the orthodontic residency program at Tufts University in Boston. There, he received extensive training on functional therapy approaches with highly sophisticated orthodontic appliances and early treatment modalities. In 2000, Dr. Alexandrian completed his master’s thesis on maxillary molar eruption and flexible lip bumpers at Tufts University in collaboration with Nijmegen University in Holland.
He then moved to California, where he started his private practice in North Hollywood. Dr. Alexandrian is a member of the American Dental Association, California Dental Association, and American Association of Orthodontists.
In his leisure, Dr. Alexandrian enjoys spending time with his three daughters. He is active in the community and enjoys teaching the art of sculpture.
Dr. Azizollah Maghen
Dr. Azizollah Maghen attended the Harvard School of Dental Medicine and the University of California, San Francisco’s Medical School where he completed his maxillofacial surgery residency (Golden Key and Order of Omega). As his patient, you can expect comprehensive care, and to be treated with compassion and without abandonment. Each patient even receives his mobile number after each visit. Dr. Maghen is a member of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, the California Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and the CDSA.
Outside of the office, he loves volunteering to lecture at the UCLA School of Dentistry. His favorite TV show is Suits, and his favorite vacation spot is anywhere that is 80 degrees. He is happily married with two children and a dog.
Dr. Fariba Matinfar
Dr. Fariba Matinfar, DDS, MS, earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery, Master of Science and periodontal specialty degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles. She loves to help patients have a beautiful, healthy smile and maintain their oral health. Dr. Matinfar is a member of the American Academy of Periodontology, the American Dental Association and the California Dental Association.
Outside of the office, she enjoys spending time with her family, hiking and going to the beach. She looks forward to traveling the world in the future and currently fosters puppies with her family!
Dr. Mizuki Tadokoro
Dr. Mizuki Tadokoro, DDS, attended the University of California, Irvine and the New York University College of Dentistry. She believes that seeing improvement in a patient’s smile and their confidence after treatment is fulfilling and satisfying. It brings her joy to be able to relieve pain and restore patients’ mouths so they can enjoy eating and other things in life. She feels very connected to the community when helping her patients in our office and wants to help those that seek comfort. Dr. Tadokoro is a member of the Academy of General Dentistry.
Outside of the office, she enjoys hiking, camping, throwing ceramics on the wheel, watching movies and listening to music.
Dr. Kereem Husain
Dr. Kereem Husain is a distinctive dental professional who provides compassionate excellence in specialized pediatric dental care. While studying biology at UCLA, Dr. Husain joined community programs that benefited the needy and homeless. While studying abroad in Egypt for a year, he participated in efforts to teach English and help the disadvantaged. Becoming deeply passionate about helping others, Dr. Husain made the decision to become a dentist.
After receiving his degree at UCLA, Dr. Husain earned his Doctorate in Dental Surgery from USC. He went on to attend Yale University, specializing in pediatric dentistry where he worked with children from infancy to teenage years, as well as children with special needs. Dr. Husain received intensive training in prevention, behavior management techniques, and treating child patients under sedation. He graduated in 2015 from Yale with a specialty in the field of pediatric dentistry.
While at USC, Dr. Husain’s diligence and skill put him on the Dean’s List each year. In addition to his studies, he was involved in various humanitarian efforts. As president of USC’s Humanitarian Club, he led dental teams that served in Mexico, Honduras, Haiti, and the Middle East. He decided to specialize in pediatric dentistry because he wanted to help get children’s teeth off to a great start by preventing decay and supporting dental health early in life. Dental appointments can be tough for kids, but Dr. Husain makes it as easy and comfortable as possible and always leaves his patients with a celebratory high five.
Even as a busy professional, Dr. Husain continues to serve the community and he never stops learning. He earned his certificate as a Diplomate of Pediatric Dentistry and is involved with many organizations and their local chapters, including AAPD, ABPD, CDA, and ADA. Dr. Husain is bilingual in English and Arabic and is also learning Spanish.
When he’s not improving dental health for kids, Dr. Husain enjoys travel, family time, and relaxing at the beach. On weekends, you might find him snorkeling, jet skiing, playing basketball, watching the latest Marvel movie, or being the cool uncle to his nephews and nieces.
Dr. Michael Issakharian
Dr. Michael Issakharian, DDS, is a leading Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon based in California. He earned his dental degree from New York University and received specialized training at Harbor UCLA. A proud member of the American Academy of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Dr. Issakharian is known for his surgical precision and commitment to patient care.
Outside the clinic, he’s a sports enthusiast who loves basketball, a nature lover who enjoys the beach, and an avid traveler always seeking new adventures. Dr. Issakharian’s passion for surgery and zest for life make him a standout in his field.
Dr. Armand Keuroghlian
Dr. Armand Keuroghlian received his DDS degree from UCLA School of Dentistry and completed a 1 year internship at Parkland Memorial Hospital in Dallas, Texas. Prior to graduating from the UCLA School of Dentistry, Dr. Armand obtained a biology degree from the University of California, Irvine.
While working toward his dental degree at UCLA, he researched implants and their integration with bone and received numerous awards, including the OMFS Student Award and Dean’s Leadership Institute. While in dental school, he gravitated toward the surgical aspect of dentistry, so he decided to continue his education in oral and maxillofacial surgery at Harbor – UCLA.
While patient care is his first priority, Dr. Armand hopes to have an academic role in the future.
Dr. Armand enjoys sports, hanging out with his friends, and traveling. He is also fluent in Armenian.
Dr. Leyli Aminian
Dr. Leyli Aminian was born and raised in Tehran, Iran. At the age of 16, she moved to Paris, France. Then, at 19 years of age, she moved to Los Angeles, California.
In 1990, Dr. Leyli earned her Bachelor of Arts in chemistry from Whittier College, graduating with honors. In 1994, she earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery from USC.
Joining our practice in 2011, Dr. Leyli has been passionate about many aspects of dentistry including giving function, creating aesthetics, and repairing a tooth which is in pain or severely damaged. She enjoyed seeing patients happy and pain-free. It’s the biggest reward when she is able to see a patient follow home care instructions and experiences successful treatment.
Dr. Leyli’s goal is to help and touch as many human lives as possible, especially underprivileged children. Outside of the office, she enjoys fitness classes, yoga and traveling.
Dr. Jorge Flores
Dr. Jorge Flores, our talented general dentist, was born and raised in Guatemala. He obtained his dental degree from the University of San Carlos in Guatemala. Since beginning his dental journey, Dr. Flores has shown a commitment to expanding his knowledge and skill set. He has attended a series of prestigious continuing education courses, including Bicon implants in Boston, sedation techniques at UCLA, and MIS Implants in Los Angeles. Furthermore, he proudly affiliates himself with the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD).
Having joined our practice in 2017, Dr. Flores frequently expresses his passion for the dental field, particularly enjoying the challenges that each unique case presents. He finds great fulfillment in offering top-notch dental care, ensuring a seamless patient experience, and cherishes the camaraderie he shares with our team.
Away from the office, Dr. Flores is an enthusiast of the great outdoors. Whether it’s swimming, biking, or engaging in other outdoor adventures, he’s always up for an active escape. He’s also an avid baseball watcher. At home, he is a loving father to two daughters: one of whom has graduated from college in Northridge, while the other is pursuing her PhD in biotechnology. Not to forget, he is also the proud pet parent of two dogs, Hugo and Butterball.
Dr. Kevin Tran
Dr. Kevin Tran earned integrated physiology and biology and BS degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles and his DDS degree from the New York University College of Dentistry. He strives to provide quality dental care to his patients and help them achieve a healthy and beautiful smile. He enjoys building relationships with his patients and educating them on their dental needs. Dr. Tran is a member of Alpha Omega and is a UCLA adjunct professor.
In his spare time, Dr. Tran enjoys playing golf, going to concerts, watching movies or his favorite sports team, the Lakers, and relaxing at the beach.
Dr. Narbeh Gharakhanian
Dr. Narbeh Gharakhanian, DDS, MD, attended the University of Texas Southwestern College of Medicine in Dallas (MD), the University of Southern California School of Dentistry (DDS), the University of California Los Angeles, Microbiology/Molecular Genetics (BS) and completed his residency at the University of Texas Southwestern/Parkland Memorial. He is always interested in learning and is committed to taking the best care of his patients using his training, education, instincts and experience. Dr. Gharakhanian is a member of the American Dental Society of Anesthesiology, the California Dental Society of Anesthesiology, the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons and the California Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.
Outside of the office, he enjoys golf, fishing, hiking and sports.
Dr. Kinha Thakkar
Dr. Kinha Thakkar embarked on her dental journey in India, obtaining a Bachelor of Dental Surgery in 2013 and a Master of Dental Surgery in endodontics in 2017. Her commitment to excellence led her to further her education at the University of Southern California (USC), where she earned her DDS in 2021. Dr. Thakkar joined our dental practice in June 2023, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge and a passion for endodontics. Her professional affiliations include the American Dental Association (ADA), the California Dental Association (CDA), and the Orange County Dental Society, reflecting her dedication to staying connected and updated in her field.
Born and raised in India, Dr. Thakkar finds great joy in the dental profession, particularly in helping people gain confidence through their smiles. Her approach to patient care is deeply personal, considering her patients as an extension of her family. This sense of familial care has become her favorite aspect of interacting with patients, where she feels honored to provide care every day.
Outside the office, Dr. Thakkar indulges in diverse hobbies that reflect her vibrant personality. She loves exploring different cuisines, enjoys leisurely walks, frequently visits beaches, and has a passion for shopping. This blend of professional dedication and personal interests shapes Dr. Thakkar’s unique approach to dentistry, where she combines skill, care, and a deep understanding of her patients’ needs.
Dr. Avo Babian
Bio Coming Soon!
Dr. Sarine Wajih Tchiroyan
Dr. Sarine Tchiroyan joined our practice in 2021. Born and raised in Lebanon, she attended St. Joseph University of Beirut, earning her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. She has continued education through endodontics conferences, implant courses, and esthetic courses. She is part of the American Dental Association.
Dr. Sarine enjoys helping patients feel comfortable during each visit. She loves interacting with patients and getting to know them individually. She also loves finding solutions to the challenges with each patient’s case. She finds joy in helping people and easing any dental pain they may have.
Outside of the office, Dr. Sarine enjoys pilates, yoga, outdoor activities, and traveling. She also enjoys spending time with her two daughters and son.
Dr. Shobhita Choudhary
Dr. Shobhita Choudhary, DMD, studied at the University of California Berkeley and achieved her DMD at the Western University of Health Sciences. She is an adjunct professor at UCLA. Dr. Choudhary offers patients a clear and concise explanation of their needs as well as personalized treatment plans. Dr. Choudhary treats all patients like family and enjoys improving patients’ self-confidence.
Outside of the office, Dr. Choudhary enjoys spending time with family and friends, watching Bollywood movies, exploring cities, cafes, beaches and attending sporting events.
Dr. David Sewell
Dr. David Sewell grew up in southern Illinois in the St. Louis area. He attended school at Southern Illinois School of Dental Medicine and graduated with honors in 1992. He practiced in Colorado for many years until moving his family to southern California. During his years of practice, he has been devoted to advancing his skills in cosmetic and implant dentistry.
Dr. Sewell has been a member of a variety of associations and study groups including the ADA, CDA, MDDS, and AGD. He is a member of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. He studied at the LA Institute of Clinical Dentistry. He has also been honored to lead dental teams on numerous mission trips to Central America.
Dr. Sewell enjoys the problem solving aspect of dentistry. He enjoys carefully listening to patients to find out what their concerns are and what is most important to them in order to fulfill their needs. He finds that by listening, patients practically give you the answer to the problems they may have. He also gives detailed explanations to help them understand their problems and what his team can do about them.
Dr. Sewell currently has 2 cats, but he has owned many different animals in the past — dogs, fish, iguanas, rabbits, turtles, gerbils, and three purebred Arabian horses. He has been involved in many hobbies such as skydiving, scuba diving, music, acting, writing screenplays, performing on stage, building race cars, camping, boating, skiing (snow and water), bicycling, hiking, climbing 14k ft. tall mountains, ballroom dancing, and swing dancing. As you can tell, he enjoys doing a variety of things!
Dr. Duy Nguyen
Born and raised in Vietnam, Dr. Duy Nguyen came to the US when he was 18 years old. He earned his BSEE from the University of Washington in 1991, followed by a DDS from UCLA in 1999. Furthering his knowledge and professional skills, Dr. Duy has also undergone extensive training in oral surgery and dental implants.
Dr. Duy’s passion for dentistry includes making dental visits as comfortable as possible for each patient as he realizes that most patients may not necessarily enjoy going to the dentist. He thoroughly enjoys interacting with dental patients, truly listening to them, addressing dental problems, and creating trust.
Dr. Duy is the proud father of two. One has graduated from UC Berkeley with a business major and the second is in high school and is a strong swimmer. He also has a dog named Bingo. Outside of the office, he enjoys spending time with family and socializing with friends.
Dr. Faezeh Alidousti
Dr. Faezeh Alidousti, affectionately known by her patients and colleagues as Dr. A, has carved a path in the dental profession that transcends borders. Born in Iran, her journey in dentistry commenced in Sweden, where she moved during her early teenage years. After relocating, she was enveloped by Swedish culture and education, eventually earning her Bachelor of Dental Science from Umeå University. Her pursuit of excellence led her to move across the Atlantic in 2013 to the United States, where she attended Loma Linda University, achieving her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. Dr. A has been affiliated with several prestigious dental associations, including the California Dental Association, the Swedish Dental Association, and the American Dental Association, ensuring she stays at the forefront of dental advancements and practices.
Joining our dental practice in January 2023, Dr. A continues to derive joy and satisfaction from her daily interactions with her patients. She deeply resonates with the impact oral health has on every aspect of an individual’s life, finding her profession rewarding, particularly when she witnesses a patient start to smile again following proper treatment. The heart of her profession lies in the development of mutual respect and understanding with her patients, transforming their concerns into effective, compassionate solutions. While her career has spanned continents, it is the intimate, local impact she has on her patient family that truly defines her professional journey.
Away from the office, Dr. A dedicates her free time to her 8-year-old daughter, Katy, who illuminates her life with love and purpose.
Dr. Javier Jara
Born in Barranquilla, Colombia, and raised there until moving to the U.S. at the age of 20 to join his family, Dr. Jara has always valued community and family ties. This is evident in both his professional and personal life. Professionally, he finds immense joy in working for the community, helping patients with their dental needs, and especially enjoys seeing his patients gain confidence through their smiles.
Dr. Javier Jara began his journey in the dental field after graduating from Universidad Estatal de Guayaquil in 1982. His passion for continuous learning led him to complete courses in orthodontics, implantology, and prosthodontics, further enhancing his expertise. Though not affiliated with any specific organizations, Dr. Jara’s commitment to his profession is unwavering. He joined our practice in April 2023, bringing with him a wealth of knowledge and a deep enthusiasm for dental health.
Outside of work, Dr. Jara cherishes spending time with his family, including his two children, 18-year-old Olga and 12-year-old Joshua, and their pet dog. His hobbies include going to the gym and running in the park, activities that reflect his commitment to a healthy, balanced lifestyle. For Dr. Jara, the teamwork at his practice and the daily interactions with patients are the highlights that make every day fulfilling and enjoyable.
Dr. Jianxiong Shen
Dr. Jianxiong Shen, originally from the Inland Empire, has built a distinguished career in dentistry, rooted in her deep academic background and passion for enhancing smiles. A proud alumna of UCLA, she excelled in her studies, earning a bachelor’s degree in biology, which laid the foundation for her career in the dental field. Her educational journey didn’t stop there, as she continued to pursue her aspirations in San Francisco. At the University of the Pacific, Dr. Shen achieved a significant milestone by earning her dental degree, equipping her with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in her profession.
Having joined Smiles West Dental & Orthodontics in 2023, Dr. Shen brings over a decade of invaluable clinical experience in general dentistry. Her dedication and expertise are evident in her passion for improving patients’ lives, not just through dental health, but also by boosting their confidence through smile-enhancing care.
In her personal time, Dr. Shen enjoys the skill of cooking and baking, activities she loves sharing with her family. Additionally, she loves to explore new cuisines. This balance of professional dedication and personal passions highlights her holistic approach to life and work, making her a cherished member of our team.
Dr. Richard Chu
Dr. Richard Chu is a dedicated general dentist who joined our team at Smiles West Dental & Orthodontics in Bell in 2024. He graduated with a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from New York University, College of Dentistry in 2009. Prior to that, he completed his undergraduate studies in biology at the University of California, Irvine in 2001.
Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and raised in Southern California, Richard has a deep appreciation for the field of dentistry, particularly because it allows for continuous learning and daily improvement. This passion helps him excel as a provider and contributes to his professional growth. At Smiles West Dental & Orthodontics, Richard is known for his commitment to excellence and his ability to work well within the team. He values the supportive and hard-working nature of his colleagues, which enhances the work environment and patient care.
Outside the office, Richard has a variety of interests that keep him busy and fulfilled. He enjoys off-roading, cooking, and traveling. Richard shares his adventures with Dodge, his Husky-Pomeranian mix. Whether it’s exploring new cuisines or traversing rugged terrains, Richard loves engaging in diverse experiences.
Dr. Sophia Cadet
Dr. Sophia Cadet, originally from Haiti, earned her dental degree from Haiti Dental School and joined Desert Dental Group in 2024. She is passionate about helping patients feel at ease and building trust through personalized care.
Dr. Cadet enjoys hiking, camping, and exploring the outdoors.
Dr. Mohamed El-laham
Dr. Mohamed El-laham is a dedicated and compassionate dentist who joined the practice in 2025. He earned his doctor of dental surgery degree (DDS) from IUPUI School of Dentistry in 2016 and holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Western Ontario, class of 2005. A proud member of both the California Dental Association (CDA) and the American Dental Association (ADA), Dr. El-laham is committed to delivering comprehensive care with a personal touch. He finds great joy in guiding patients through their dental journey—from the initial consultation to the final result—and believes in transforming lives one smile at a time.
Originally born in Saudi Arabia and raised in Canada, Dr. El-laham brings a global perspective and a warm, approachable style to patient care. He values getting to know each patient and learning how dentistry can help improve their overall well-being. Known for his professionalism and friendly nature, he thrives in the practice’s team-focused, high-performing environment. Outside the office, Dr. El-laham enjoys cooking, walking, and exploring new places with his family, including his young son.
Dr. Navid Kabiri
Dr. Navid Kabiri is a skilled orthodontist who combines a passion for science and creativity to transform smiles and lives. Born and raised in Tehran, Iran, Dr. Kabiri discovered early on that dentistry would allow him to blend precision, biomechanics, and artistry to make a real impact on people’s health and confidence. After earning his doctor of dental medicine degree (DMD) from Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, he completed a general practice residency at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York, further sharpening his clinical expertise. His pursuit of excellence led him to specialize in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics through an advanced certificate program at Saint Barnabas Hospital in New York.
Dr. Kabiri’s commitment to comprehensive, state-of-the-art care is evident in his extensive continuing education and specialized training. He has pursued advanced learning in phase I and II orthodontics, conventional and self-ligating brackets (including MBT, bidimensional, and 0.018 techniques), clear aligner therapy, lingual brackets, orthopedic and functional appliances, TAD-based systems, and orthognathic treatment. By staying at the forefront of orthodontic advancements, he ensures that each patient receives personalized treatment tailored to their unique needs and goals.
Beyond his technical expertise, Dr. Kabiri takes great joy in the human side of orthodontics. He values building long-term relationships with his patients, guiding them through their transformative journeys, and celebrating each milestone together. Seeing a patient’s newfound pride and confidence in their smile is, for him, the most rewarding part of his work. Since joining our practice in 2024, he has embraced the culture of teamwork and patient-centered care, where every team member shares a commitment to delivering exceptional results and creating a supportive environment.
Outside of the office, Dr. Kabiri leads a vibrant and curious life. He enjoys reading, watching movies, traveling, and exploring different cultures, as well as staying active through regular workouts. He also loves engaging in thoughtful conversations about science, society, and human behavior. While he doesn’t currently have pets, he cherishes spending time with family and friends and remains an animal lover at heart. Dr. Kabiri’s dedication to both his craft and his community makes him a trusted and inspiring figure in the world of orthodontics.
Dr. Jonathan Gim
Dr. Jonathan Gim is an accomplished associate dentist with a passion for delivering excellent patient care and visible, immediate results. Born in New York City and raised in Southern California, Dr. Gim pursued his undergraduate studies at the University of California, Los Angeles, before earning his doctorate from Loma Linda University School of Dentistry. With a commitment to continual growth, he has completed specialized continuing education courses in implant dentistry, Invisalign, cosmetic dentistry, and endodontics, equipping him with a diverse skill set to meet his patients’ needs.
Dr. Gim joined our practice in 2024 and values the supportive, collaborative environment that allows him to focus on building strong relationships with his patients. He finds great fulfillment in working with his hands and achieving immediate, impactful results, and he particularly enjoys getting to know his patients personally while helping them reach optimal oral health. His professional affiliations with the American Dental Association, California Dental Association, and Korean-American Dental Association reflect his dedication to maintaining high standards and staying connected within the dental community.
Outside the office, Dr. Gim enjoys watching sports, snowboarding, and spending time with friends and family. These hobbies reflect his active, outgoing nature, and he brings the same enthusiasm and dedication to his work, ensuring each patient has a positive and comfortable experience at the practice.
Dr. Sunwoong Steve Choi
A first-generation dentist, Dr. Sunwoong Steve Choi completed his undergraduate education at the University of California – Los Angeles and received his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Southern California in 2005. Selected as one of the most outstanding graduates of the University that year, he was elected into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon honor society.
Following his general dental training, Dr. Choi completed five-year oral and maxillofacial surgery training at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. During his residency, Dr. Choi obtained a medical degree and also completed one year of general surgery training.
He is an active member of the American Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons, California Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons, as well as the American Dental Association and California Dental Association. Dr. Choi is licensed in both dentistry and medicine and is also licensed to administer general anesthesia.
Dr. Choi’s passion in clinical practice is dentoalveolar surgery and dental implant surgery.
Dr. Hamlet Taroian
Dr. Hamlet Taroian is a general dentist dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate dental care. With an inspiration for creating beautiful, healthy smiles, Dr. Taroian is passionate about educating his patients on preventative care and helping his patients achieve their oral health goals. Dr. Taroian also specializes in cosmetic dentistry. He earned his DDS degree from USC in 2003 and has been practicing in the Los Angeles area for over 21 years.
Dr. Taroian believes in a personalized approach, taking the time to understand each patient’s goals and preferences. What he enjoys most about dentistry is the opportunity to build relationships with patients and help them feel comfortable and confident in their smiles, and creating a welcoming environment for all.
Outside of the office, Dr. Taroian enjoys spending time with his family, engaging in sports, and playing musical instruments.
Dr. Aaron Park
Dr. Aaron Park is a general dentist who focuses exclusively on endodontic care, including root canal therapy. Known for his precision and gentle approach, he is committed to relieving pain and preserving natural teeth. Born in Seoul and raised in the U.S., Dr. Park earned his DDS from Loma Linda University School of Dentistry. He values being part of a collaborative, patient-focused team and finds joy in making dental care a comfortable experience. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, trying new food spots, and spending time with his wife and their dog.
Dr. Marina Kalds
Our team had the privilege of welcoming Dr. Marina Kalds to our practice in September of 2025. She was born in Cairo, Egypt, and raised in Fountain Valley, California. Dr. Kalds loves her team. Both the back and front office work well together, making it a positive, proficient and productive environment.
Her dental education includes the California State University Long Beach, where she earned her Bachelor of Science with majors in chemistry and psychology in 2019. She went on to earn her doctor of dental surgery degree (DDS) from the University of Southern California School of Dentistry in 2023. Dr. Kalds is a member of the American Dental Association (ADA), as well as the California Dental Association (CDA).
Dr. Kalds loves dentistry for many reasons, including the combination of both art and science that gives esthetic and credible results. Her favorite aspect of dentistry is when patients are both happy and comfortable with their smiles. She loves when patients change their perspective for the better when it comes to both dentists and dentistry. She understands that this takes a lot of trust-building and communication which in turn makes it so rewarding.
Outside of work, Dr. Kalds enjoys cooking, reading, and walking, but her favorite activity is traveling, especially with her husband.