1934 E. Camelback Rd. Ste 110, Phoenix, AZ 85016​
We Are Family-Owned!

Meet Our Dental Team

Our pediatric dental specialists attend two additional years of training after dental school to focus on how to provide the best care optimized for children. We are passionate about giving your child a healthier, happier smile.

Our Team

Alondra Castillo

Alondra Castillo

Dental Assistant

Hi! I’m Alondra, a dedicated dental assistant with a passion for patient care and oral health.

After completing my education at Carrington College, where I gained hands-on experience in dental procedures and patient management, I joined The Kids Dental Office of Phoenix and Orthodontics eager to contribute to a positive dental experience for every patient. 

My goal is to ensure a comfortable environment while supporting the dental team in delivering exceptional care. I am committed to continuing education to stay updated with the latest advancements in dental technology and techniques. 

In my free time I enjoy going to concerts, spending time with my dog Daisy and going to Chick-Fil-A. 

Marc Contreras

Marc Contreras

Front Office

Hello, my name is Marc and I have over 10 years of experience in retail and food industries but recently switched to start a new adventure in to dental care! I have three amazing pups named Banshee, Belami & Bruno who keep me busy & motivate me to stay positive! 

I love to hike, travel to National Parks, and have pool days with my pups, friends and family.

In my spare time I like to edit videos and photos but nothing brings me greater joy than lending a helping hand wherever I can!

Kieara Miller

Kieara Miller

EFDA, Back Office Clinical Manager

Even though my name is Kieara, people around here call me “Kiki!”

I have been a Pediatric dental assistant for 11 years, and 10 of those years I have been chair side with Dr. Bienstock. I have been an ortho assistant for 5 years.

I am originally from California. I am left handed, but in dentistry, I do everything right handed, so I am ambidextrous!

In my free time, I love playing volleyball, roller skating, going to the gym and spending time with my family.

I have two puppies named Ace and Lola who I love to play with!

Dora Muminjoniyan

Dora Muminjoniyan

EFDA, Dental Assistant

Hi everyone, I’m Dora! 

After completing dental school in 2020 and working as a dentist in Poland for a few years. I decided to pursue my career abroad.

Drawn by the warm climate and vibrant culture of Arizona I made the bold decision to relocate to Phoenix. I embraced the opportunity to join The Kids Dental Office of Phoenix and Orthodontics as a dental assistant.

Outside of dentistry I enjoy exploring Arizona’s natural beauty, from hiking trails in Sedona to the picturesque landscapes of the Grand Canyon. I am fluent in Polish, Russian, Turkish, Tajik and English, allowing me to connect effortlessly with people from various backgrounds and ensure they receive personalized care. 

I look forward to continuing my journey in pediatric dental care in Phoenix, where every day brings new opportunities to learn, grow, and positively impact the oral health and well-being of our community.

Govanni Penaloza

Govanni Penaloza

Front Office Administrator

Hello, my name is Govanni! I’m joining The Kids Dental Office of Phoenix with 5 years of experience in pediatric dentistry and over 10 years of experience working with families and kids of all ages. 

While living in San Francisco, working in education allowed me to significantly impact many underserved families, solidifying my dedication to helping families, and giving back to my community. I hope to create a safe and enjoyable experience for all of our families, and most of all, make it fun!

My return to dentistry began as a dental assistant, after which I transitioned into an administrative role. I enjoy being well rounded in dentistry, both administrative and clinically!

In my free time, I enjoy weight lifting, hiking, traveling for music festivals, and spending time with my lovely 1-year-old niece.

Gigi

Gianna Sarocka

Dental Assistant

Hi, my name is Gigi! I love working as a dental assistant. I love coming in every day and being able to change how kids feel about coming to the dentist. I love putting a smile on the kids’ faces. In my spare time, I like to binge-watch shows and hang out with my family. I used to do gymnastics and dance for a couple of years, and I just can’t wait to see what the future holds for me.

Melanie Stewart​

Melanie Stewart​

Chief Operating Officer

Welcome to our practice where we are dedicated to providing an exceptional experience for your children’s dental needs. Healthy and happy smiles are our priority!

Having worked in the dental field of many communities in Arizona for over 20 years, I remain rewarded and passionate about serving you!

Outside of dentistry, I enjoy cooking, reading, writing, and of course, a good sporting event with friends and family.

Deandrea Tsosie

DeAndrea Tsosie

Dental Assistant

Bio coming soon.

Michelle Vasquez

Michelle Vasquez

Dental Assistant

I was born in California (Santa, Ana) and moved to Arizona around 2005. I am the 2nd oldest out of 5 girls in my family. We have 2 pit bulls, 4 turtles, and one Malti poo puppy. 

In my free-time I enjoy singing/ karaoke, walking trails/hiking, cooking, and playing my Nintendo switch. I’ve always had an interest in the dental field since I was young. 

My favorite part of my job is giving families information on the importance of creating healthy oral hygiene habits that will last a lifetime. 

My favorite holiday is the 4th of July.

Ally Shaw

Patient Services Representative

I am a hardworking, compassionate, and enthusiastic individual beginning my first year in dental. I am super excited to learn, grow, and develop my skills while making a positive impact on others. I am grateful for the supportive team I am a part of and the opportunities to learn from those around me. I look forward to continuing my journey and growing both personally and professionally.

NYU Langone Residency Program

Dr. Jasmin Lakhani

Jasmine Lakhani, DMD

Dr. Jasmine Lakhani is originally from Johns Creek, a suburban area in Atlanta, Georgia. Surrounded by a large extended family, her childhood was constantly filled with energy and laughter. This strong sense of family and community inspired her to stay close to home for college. She attended Kennesaw State University, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science.

During her undergraduate years, frequent visits to her childhood dentist sparked her interest in dentistry. After college, she worked as a dental assistant for two years, where she discovered her love for hands-on work and forming personal connections with patients.

Dr. Lakhani earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D) from the Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health in Mesa, along with a Master Public Health (M.P.H.) with a Dental Emphasis. She went on to work as a general dentist in pediatric dental clinics across Tucson and Phoenix for four years. She is passionate about working with children, helping them overcome dental fears, and improving access to care through early education and prevention.

Now living in Arizona for nine years, Dr. Lakhani enjoys outdoor activities, running, and trying new restaurants with her husband, daughter, and their Irish Setter, Preston. A dedicated runner with a sweet tooth, she has completed a half marathon and 10K, and plans to train for her first full marathon soon.

Dr. Lalia Saavedra

Lilia Saavedra, DDS

Dr. Saavedra was born and raised in a small town in Cuba, where her journey in dentistry began. She earned her dental degree in 2008, driven by a deep passion for providing care to underserved populations—especially children. After graduation, she served at a rural clinic in a disadvantaged area, where she discovered both personal growth and a natural connection with pediatric patients.

Seeking to expand her impact, Dr. Saavedra joined an international dental exchange program in Venezuela, offering free dental services to vulnerable communities. Her dedication to service remained unwavering even after moving to the United States, where she spent several years working as a dental assistant while pursuing her goal of returning to clinical dentistry.

Her perseverance paid off when she was accepted into the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) College of Dentistry, where she earned her dental degree. Motivated by her enduring commitment to pediatric care, she decided to specialize further by training to become a pediatric dentist.

Known for her warmth, resilience, and unwavering dedication, Dr. Saavedra finds her greatest reward in making a meaningful difference in the lives of her young patients. In her free time, she enjoys the company of her family and her beloved dog, Pepper.
Dr. Akash Patel

Akash Patel, DDS

Dr. Akash Patel was born in India but moved to Canada at the young age of 6. He grew up in the small city of Brandon, Manitoba where he completed his undergraduate studies at Brandon University with a major in biomedical sciences. Following graduation, Dr. Patel moved to Toronto to pursue his dream of becoming a dentist. A dream realized in 2022 when he received his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree with Honours. 

 

During his 4th year of dental school, Dr. Patel had the opportunity to help patients with developmental delays access dental care. This ignited his passion to pursue a career in pediatric dentistry which would provide knowledge and experience to help these patients while also having an opportunity to create a positive and comfortable dental experience for many more children. Upon graduation, he was excited to discover an opportunity that would combine his passion for dentistry and working with children in his home province of Manitoba. Dr. Patel joined a private pediatric dental practice and has worked with pediatric patients for the past two and a half years.

 

Outside of dentistry, Dr. Patel is an avid traveler who loves exploring new destinations and the outdoors. He is very excited to be hiking and exploring what the state of Arizona has to offer. A sports enthusiast, Dr. Patel enjoys playing golf, perfecting his swing on the greens, and engaging in various other sports that keep him active and energized. Lastly, Dr. Patel values spending quality time with friends and family.
Blair Jason

Blair Jason, DDS

Daniel Benvenuto

Daniel Benvenuto Da Costa, DMD

Cindy Staples, DMD