WE HAVE THE BEST DOCTORS FOR THE BEST PATIENTS
All of our highly trained doctors at Alameda Pediatric Dentistry offer children the most customized dental care in the Bay area. We take pride in having the friendliest, experienced, and passionate doctors on our staff. Scroll down to learn more about our amazing dentists, and what they have to offer you and your child.
SHARINE V. THENARD, DDS, MS
Pediatric Dentist, Partner
It’s so special for me to be able to care for the kids in my community. I was born and raised right here in Alameda. A graduate of Lum School, Wood Middle School, and St. Joseph’s Notre Dame High School, I get to see many of my peers and watch their kids grow up in our office.
After graduating from UC Davis and UC San Francisco Dental School, I went to residency at the Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio and earned my Masters of Science from The Ohio State University. In 2005, I returned to my hometown of Alameda and in 2006 I became board certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.
In my professional life, I have been very involved in causes that promote pediatric oral health, and have served as President of the California Society of Pediatric Dentistry, President of the Alameda County Dental Society, Trustee for the California Dental Association, and have served on numerous Councils and Committees on the local, state, and national dental level. I have been honored to reach status of Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry as well as Fellow of the American College of Dentists.
Outside of the office, I spend my time around town with my three funny and joyful children, who keep me busy beyond belief, my wonderful husband who is a constant source of support, and my adorable Labradoodle, Kona, who tolerates the chaos of the household and is always ready to cuddle and slobber.
MYLINH NGO, DMD
Pediatric Dentist, Partner
It is a privilege for me to help kids and guide families how to achieve good oral health each and every day. Children are such precious gifts and I feel lucky that I can use my skills in detail, empathy, patience and knowledge in dental care just for them. I spent my childhood growing up in sunny San Diego and have loved calling the Bay Area my home for over 20 years. I completed my specialty training in pediatric dentistry at UCSF and I received my dental degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine, where I graduated among the top of the class.
I am involved in teaching the UCSF residents practice management as a volunteer clinical professor. I hold privileges at Kaiser Oakland hospital, the UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland, and the Walnut creek outpatient surgery center. In my spare time, I love using my creativity for arts and crafts, music, and baking healthy eats. I have two sweet girls who brighten my life and keep me smiling. I am an active member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, California Society of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association, California Dental Association and Southern Alameda County Dental Society.
MICHAEL WAHL, DDS
Pediatric Dentist
Creating a welcoming, comforting, and secure atmosphere for both patients and parents has always been my primary focus in my professional practice. Having been a patient myself requiring extensive dental treatment, I understand firsthand the significance of establishing a sense of ease and trust with healthcare providers.
I pursued Chemical Engineering with a specialization in Biomedical studies at UCLA before earning my dental degree from NYU College of Dentistry. My journey continued with a Pediatric Residency at NYU, during which I had the privilege of serving as chief resident. Throughout my residency, I was lucky enough to participate in numerous mission trips – extending assistance to communities in regions such as Alaska, Dominican Republic, and Ecuador.
To stay up to date of the latest research, I remain an engaged member the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the California Society of Pediatric Dentistry. Additionally, I hold board certification from the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.
Outside of the clinic, I cherish spending quality time with my family. I enjoy experimenting with new recipes, traveling, rounds of golf, playing soccer with my daughter, and taking long walks with my Klee Kai, Ivy.
MARAL MOBASHER, DMD
Pediatric Dentist
I consider it a privilege to be trusted with the oral care needs of my patients. I am a board-certified pediatric dentist specializing in infants, children, and patients with special health care needs. I believe in treating the unique needs of every child in a case by case manner.
I studied bioengineering at California Institute of Technology (Caltech) with a Presidential Scholarship. I completed my dental degree at University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) School of Dental Medicine at the top of my class with honors in clinical dentistry and research. I was honored by being accepted into the prestigious Omicron Kappa Upsilon national dental honor society. My dedication to excellence in patient care led me to a demanding in-hospital pediatric dental residency program at Jacobi Medical Center in Bronx, NY. The hospital experience prepared me well for managing dental traumas, medical emergencies, and sedation dentistry. I completed my specialty training in pediatric dentistry and moved back to California to join my family in the Bay Area.
I am truly honored to work with the team at Alameda Pediatric Dentistry and serve this great community. I am well-versed in working with diverse patient populations. I speak Farsi and English fluently, as well as Spanish and Italian at a high intermediate level. I currently maintain hospital privileges at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital. I am an active member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the California Society of Pediatric Dentistry, and the San Francisco Dental Society. My toddler son keeps me busy these days with riding bikes and reading stories! In my free time, I enjoy traveling, reading, gardening, and Iranian calligraphy.
JENNIFER SUN, DDS
Pediatric Dentist
Inspiring children to care about their oral health and cultivating fun and enjoyable memories at the dentist are goals are my everyday goals as a healthcare provider. As a member of the exceptional team at Alameda Pediatric Dentistry, I look forward to providing the high-quality care our children need to grow healthy and happy smiles.
I grew up in Sacramento, CA, and completed my undergraduate studies in biology at UCLA. I had the privilege of serving as student body president at the UCLA School of Dentistry and was awarded the Dean’s Medal at graduation, given to the top ten students in the class. I completed my specialty training in pediatric dentistry at the Yale School of Medicine. I am board certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.
Every year I look forward to providing dental care to families in the Dominican Republic on dental service trips. In my spare time, I love hiking, going to baseball games, and taking long runs with my dog, Echo.
ELLA SAEED, DDS
Pediatric Dentist
It is an absolute pleasure and honor to care for the children of the Bay Area. A Marin County native, I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of California Santa Cruz (UCSC) in human biology and earned my Doctor of Dental Surgery from University of California San Francisco (UCSF). I continued to complete my Pediatric Dentistry residency at University of Southern California (USC) and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, where I specialized in the care and treatment of infants, children, adolescents, with emphasis on patients with special health care needs.
I enjoy staying involved with local, state, and national organizations that promote and advocate for pediatric oral health. I serve as the President of the Alameda County Dental Society. I also serve on the leadership boards of UCSF Dental Alumni Association and California Society of Pediatric Dentistry.
I am an active member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association and California Dental Association.
I speak Arabic fluently. When not practicing dentistry, I am an avid runner and hiker and enjoy discovering new hikes around the world!
LEILA ZOKAEI, DDS
Pediatric Dentist
As a pediatric dentist, I have the privilege to be part of a child’s life from an early age and to promote what I am most passionate about, oral and systemic wellness. I received my dental degree from the University of California San Francisco. After that, I completed my residency training in pediatric dentistry at the University of Maryland and became board-certified with Diplomate status from the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.
As part of my academic training, I co-wrote the most recent Guidelines on Restorative Dentistry for the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, based on an extensive evidence-based dental literature review. My residency training comprised all aspects of pediatric dentistry, including behavior modification, nitrous oxide anxiolytics, conscious and IV sedation, hospital dentistry, early interceptive orthodontic treatment, trauma management, and treatment of special needs patients.
I am a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, California Society of Pediatric Dentistry, and the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.
I speak Farsi fluently. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, walking my dog “Benji,” playing tennis at the USTA single and double tournaments, and skiing.
JENNIFER TUNG, DDS, MS
Pediatric Dentist
I love working with the amazing team at Alameda Pediatric Dentistry here in my home community. I grew up in the Bay Area and attended grade school and high school in San Francisco. I moved to San Diego and received my Bachelor of Science degree in Human Biology from the University of California at San Diego. I then received my Master of Science degree in Biology, specializing in pediatric immunology, from the University of California at San Diego.
While completing my Master’s degree, I found my true passion was in pediatric dentistry. I attended the University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry and was honored to graduate as the class Valedictorian. I completed my pediatric dentistry residency at the University of Southern California, Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry. While in residency, I worked at Miller Children’s Hospital in Long Beach, Children’s Hospital in Los Angeles, and Children’s Hospital in Orange County where I was able to work with wonderful families and learn from incredible faculty.
When I am not in the dental office, I love traveling and being outdoors with my family. I played soccer for over 30 years and now enjoy treating my joints to more low impact activities like golfing, kayaking, swimming and biking with my husband. I also love reading Harry Potter, playing with our puppy Kenzie, doing arts and crafts projects, and (trying) to cook new recipes. We have 2 very energetic little boys who happily ensure we are always looking for new adventures.
RACHEL FORER, DDS
Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Rachel Forer is excited to be rejoining the Alameda Pediatric Dentistry family after a 2.5-year hiatus to become a certified pediatric dentist. Dr. Forer started with APD as a general dentist B.C (before Covid), immersing herself in the practice of pediatric dentistry, which inspired her to pursue specialty education. Dr. Forer graduated from the UCSF Children’s Hospital Oakland program in June 2023 where she was honored with the Ray Braham award for her exceptional competence and ability in clinical pediatric dentistry as well as specific skills in treating patients with special needs. In her spare time, she loves to spend time with her husband and two Samoyed doggies, Pearl and Onyx, as well as exploring the world through travel.
LAJUAN HALL, DDS, MS
Pediatric Dentist
It is truly an honor to contribute to such a reputable and dedicated group of professionals at Alameda Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics. I am eager to bring my skills, passion for pediatric dentistry, and commitment to providing exceptional care to the children in our community.
Dr. David Perry was my mentor and role model during my early career. I earned my Doctorate of Dental Surgery and a Master’s in Oral Biology from the University of California, San Francisco. I completed hospital-based advanced residency training at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital, and have practiced pediatric dentistry for over 30 years.
Beyond the clinic, I am deeply involved in our local community, volunteering to provide dental care to underserved populations and mentoring the next generation of dental professionals. I am a proud member of various professional organizations, including the American Dental Association and Section Chair of the American College of Dentistry. I recently had the honor of receiving the 2023 UCSF School of Dentistry Medal of Honors.
My approach to dentistry is rooted in listening to my patients’ concerns and developing a personalized treatment plan that addresses their unique needs. I am grateful for the opportunity to grow and thrive alongside such a talented and compassionate team, and I am excited to make a difference in the lives of those we serve.
MATTHEW COZIN, DDS, MS
Lead Orthodontist
I am excited to be part of Alameda Pediatric Dentistry! I was born in Manhasset, New York and grew up in Bernardsville, New Jersey. While growing up, I enjoyed playing baseball, basketball and music. During high school, I continued these interests by performing in many bands and playing varsity baseball for all four years. During my junior and senior year, I was selected to All-State honors in baseball.
My fascination in life sciences led me to pursue a degree in biology at Wesleyan University in Connecticut. After college, I moved to Manhattan and worked as a researcher at Columbia University’s College of Dental Medicine, where I also completed his D.D.S. While in dental school, I continued my research and published in numerous prestigious dental journals. In 2012, I was awarded the Daniel M. Laskin Award for authoring the most outstanding article in the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.
Through positive experiences with patients and mentors at Columbia University, I made the decision to further my education by completing my orthodontic residency at the University of California San Francisco, where I also served as chief resident and received a master’s degree in orofacial sciences.
I am board certified by the American Board of Orthodontics. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, biking, and volunteering for dental missions. I also love rock music and enjoy playing around with old electronics.
TIFFANY LOUIE, DDS, MS
Orthodontist
As a Hayward native, my home and heart belong in the Bay Area. I lived in Southern California for five years where I earned my bachelor degree in psychology-biology, then spent seven years at the University of California, San Francisco, where I graduated at the top of my class earning my dental degree of science and subsequently received my orthodontic specialty training and master’s degree in orofacial sciences.
In the past decade, since graduating from Orthodontic residency, I have been fortunate to practice orthodontics in some amazing pediatric/orthodontic group practices. I am super excited to join the dynamic team at Alameda Pediatric Dentistry, and I’m eager to meet all the amazing patients and help them create their beautiful smiles.
I have three amazing and high-energy children who keep me on my toes with the latest dance moves. My favorite is the “Floss,” probably more for its name than the moves! As a family, we enjoy the simple pleasures of staying home for movie or games nights and appreciate any opportunity we have to take vacations and explore the world. I can often be found scouring Pinterest for new arts and crafts projects or recipes for sugar cookies.
NANCY UNG, DMD, MS, MPH
Orthodontist
I am a Bay Area native and grew up in Alameda. I am a graduate of Stanford University with a Bachelors of Science in Biological Sciences. Following that, I received my Dental Degree from Harvard University.
While at Harvard, I was also a Public Health Fellow and received my Masters in Public Health with a specialty in Health Policy and Management / International Policy along with my Dental Degree. I then returned to the West Coast and attended the University of Washington to complete my Certificate and Masters Degree in the specialty of Orthodontics. During my training, I was a US Public Health Service Commissioned Officer, which allowed me to pursue my interest in research at the National Institutes of Health.
I am a Clinical Professor at UCSF and teach the orthodontic residents at La Clinica de la Raza in Oakland. I have served on the Editorial Board for both the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, and the Angle Orthodontist.
My professional affiliations include the American Association of Orthodontists, American Dental Association, California Dental Association, Southern Alameda County Dental Society, Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists, California Association of Orthodontists, Phi Beta Kappa at Stanford University, and Omicron Kappa Upsilon at Harvard University.
I have published numerous articles in several prestigious professional journals. My dental and orthodontic research was presented at the meetings of the American Dental Association, the International Association of Dental Research, the International Health Technology Assessment in Health Care Conference, and the Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists. I have received numerous awards, including international recognition for research performed at Harvard, as well as work at the University of Washington. One research project even made it onto the front page of the New York Times!
I just launched my daughter off to UC Davis so I now have free time to spend traveling, cycling, swimming, gardening, cooking, and generally enjoying all that the Bay Area has to offer. Looking forward to the days ahead working in a community I will always call home.
BARBARA YEE, DDS, MS
Orthodontist
Hi, I’m Dr. Yee! I am a San Francisco Bay Area Native and received my Bachelor of Science degree and my Doctorate in Dental Surgery at the University of California San Francisco.
I earned my Certificate of Orthodontic Specialty and Master of Science degree from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. I am a member of the American Dental Association, California Dental Association, and the Contra Costa Dental Society. I enjoy reading, bicycling, and hiking.
CLAIRE MARCEL, DDS
Orthodontist
Dr. Claire Marcel, DDS is an Orthodontist with more than 35 years of experience. She previously worked in the Tri-Valley with Marcel Orthodontics. She graduated from the University Of California in 1989 and she has two wonderful kids!
SCOTT KALOUST, DDS, MS
Orthodontist
I love the combination of art and science that is required to create healthy, beautiful smiles. Each patient is unique and deserving of an orthodontic experience that is unique to them. It is important to design care that addresses both the person’s appearance — that wonderful smile they desire — and delivers an improvement in their function and bite. I want people to finish orthodontics with an incredible smile: a smile that is beautifully confident and healthy!
I decided to become an orthodontist after having braces as a young teen. That was a life-changing experience and one I wanted to provide for others. I attended the University of California Los Angeles School of Dentistry and graduated with my Doctorate of Dental Surgery. This was followed by a one-year residency at the Veteran’s Administration Hospital San Francisco, and a two-year, part-time residency in craniofacial anomalies (cleft lip and palate) at the University of California San Francisco. I saw patients as a general dentist during that time, as well.
In 1997, I decided to pursue my interest in orthodontics. Through the University of California San Francisco orthodontic specialty program, I completed my specialist in orthodontics and Master of Science in oral biology in 2000. I am an active member of the American Association of Orthodontists, American Dental Association, Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists, California Dental Association, and the Mid-Peninsula Dental Society
I grew up in Riverside, Southern California, and have lived with my family in Redwood City for more than 25 years. My wife Christine and I have three children: Jack, Nico, and Caroline. Our family is rounded out by Hunter, our dog. Time with loved ones, snow skiing, SF Giants baseball, and classic cars are among my passions outside of orthodontics. My other great love? I’m an avid and accomplished open-water marathon swimmer!
J. REED RAYHER, D.D.S., M.D.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
Dr. Rayher is a San Francisco Bay Area native growing up in Santa Rosa, California. He attended college at the University of California at San Diego earning a Bachelor of Science degree in bio-engineering while being elected to the prestigious engineering honor society, Tau Beta Pi.
Moving back to the Bay Area, Dr. Rayher earned both Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) and Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degrees at the University of California at San Francisco. While a student, he was active in student government and served as the Student Body President of UCSF. Upon graduation, Dr. Rayher was inducted into the Alpha Omega International Honor Society, which is reserved only for dental graduates who rank number one in their class.
After obtaining his degrees at UCSF, he continued his training at the UCSF Medical Center, the San Francisco VA Hospital, and the San Francisco General Hospital where he learned firsthand from some of the most renowned doctors in the country. He earned a Specialty Certificate in oral and maxillofacial surgery, which included formal training in general surgery, microneurosurgery, and anesthesia. Dr Rayher is licensed to practice both dentistry and medicine. He also holds California state Specialty Permits in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and General Anesthesia. Dr. Rayher has been faculty at both the VA Hospital in Palo Alto and at UCSF Dental School.
Currently, Dr. Rayher maintains a solo private practice at Union Square Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery in downtown San Francisco. With his expertise in oral and maxillofacial surgery, medicine, and anesthesia, Dr. Rayher has particular interest in helping fearful and dental phobic patients, patients who need removal of impacted, diseased, painful, or infected teeth, patients in need of jaw reconstruction with bone grafting, and patients who need replacement of missing teeth with dental implants.
STEPHEN LONG, MD
Anesthesiologist
Dr. Stephen Long graduated from Georgetown University School of Medicine, then completed his residency in Anesthesiology and a pediatric fellowship at UCSF. He is board certified in Anesthesiology and Pediatric Anesthesiology. He has been in practice for over 10 years at Oakland Children’s Hospital where he was both the Medical Director of Pediatric Anesthesia and Medical Director of Pediatric Pain Management. He has given several lectures about safety in anesthesia for the California Society of Pediatric Dentistry.
DAVID M. PERRY, DDS
Retired Partner and Pediatric Dentist
I have been practicing pediatric dentistry for over 45 years. I completed my undergraduate studies at UC Berkeley and am a proud Cal alum. I received both my Doctorate of Dental Surgery and specialty training in pediatric dentistry from UCSF. I have served as president of the Alameda County Dental Society, president of the California Society of Pediatric Dentistry, Trustee of the California Dental Associations. I enjoy teaching the pediatric dental residents at UCSF School of Dentistry where I am a volunteer clinical professor.
THANK YOU FROM ALL OF OUR DENTISTS!
The doctors at our four pediatric dental offices closely work together to create the most comprehensive oral regimen for your child. Our dentists not only treat your child today, but they prepare your child for lifelong healthy smiles. Contact one of our four convenient Bay area dental offices today with any questions or concerns you may have.