Dr. Neda Kalantar - Tooth Bugs, Sleepy Spray, and Tigers: Reimagining the Dental Experience for Kids

When Dr. Neda Kalantar decided to open her pediatric dental practice almost 20 years ago, she transformed what could be a scary experience into an adventure. Drawing from her lifelong love of animals, she created a safari-themed practice where children feel like they're embarking on an exciting journey rather than simply visiting the dentist.

The safari concept goes beyond decorative elements—it's woven into the very fabric of her approach to pediatric dental care. Dr. Kalantar's team uses thoughtful language shifts like "tooth bugs" instead of cavities and "sleepy spray" instead of shots, completely transforming how children perceive dental procedures. This seemingly simple change makes a profound difference, turning fearful patients into eager participants who want protective "shields" on their teeth.

Dr. Kalantar's passion for helping children extends far beyond her Reston practice. Her life-changing experience volunteering with Operation Smile in Nicaragua—where she witnessed how a 45-minute surgery could transform the life of a child born with cleft lip and palate—has taken her around the world. From establishing dental missions in Vietnam to trekking with gorillas in Rwanda, these global health initiatives have shaped her perspective and deepened her commitment to accessible care.

Her most personal project yet is an upcoming children's book featuring Kami the Tiger, a character born with a cleft lip who meets other animals while learning about oral health. By combining animal education with compassionate storytelling, Dr. Kalantar hopes to create a resource that helps children with similar conditions feel less alone while teaching all kids about oral health in an engaging way.

Through technological innovations like laser dentistry and electronic numbing systems, Dr. Kalantar continues to transform the pediatric dental experience. These advancements reduce discomfort during and after procedures, allowing children to have positive associations with dental care. As she reflects on twenty years of practice ownership, Dr. Kalantar emphasizes that finding the right team members and creating a supportive culture have been her greatest challenges—and greatest rewards.

Ready to transform how your child experiences dental care? Discover the safari adventure waiting at Pediatric Dentistry Reston, where dental visits become memorable journeys filled with learning, laughter, and positive experiences that last a lifetime.