Dentists and Dental Specialists:
you can bring your own patients to our facility and perform dental procedures on your patients under sedation. MDSD&SC can also provide our affiliated specialists to work with you as a team.
or
Patients can set up appointments directly to have comprehensive dental work done utilized our affiliated General, Cosmetic, Prosthodontic, Oral Surgery, Endodontics, Periodontics, Orthodontics, Pediatric Dental Care, and Family Dentists, all performed under sedation.
Meet Our Dentists, Oral Surgeons & Endodontists
PearlFection Dentistry in Frederick MD Welcomes Dr. Atul Sharma – Board Certified Periodontist
Comprehensive Dental Care clinic with all dental specialties under one roof welcomes Dr. Atul Sharma DDS as a Periodontist for their Frederick Maryland and Urbana Maryland locations.
Dr. Sharma received his bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of Maryland, then went on earn his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from New York University College of Dentistry. Dr. Sharma completed his advanced training in Periodontics during a three-year residency at the New York University College of Dentistry. Dr. Sharma is a specialist proficient in the treatment of periodontal disease, gum disease, ridge/sinus augmentation, soft tissue grafting, crown lengthening, dental implant placement, extractions and cosmetic dentistry.
With this broad range of expertise, Dr. Sharma supports PearlFection Dentistry patients through a proactive approach emphasizing prevention and non-surgical treatments and extending to cutting-edge restorations and surgical procedures if and when necessary. In addition to scaling and root planing treatments to clean and repair damaged tissue, Dr. Sharma utilizes his skill set to perform dental implant surgery, crown lengthening, gum recontouring, and pocket reduction procedures.
As a scholar and member of the American Board of Periodontology (ABP), Dr. Sharma is recognized by the public, the dental profession, and the medical community as a dental specialist in periodontal care. The mission of the ABP is to certify the achievement of in-depth knowledge and proficiency in the full scope of periodontology and dental implant surgery through examination and continuous certification.
Dr. EJ Stringer, DMD
Dentist in Frederick, MD
Dr. Stringer finished her undergraduate work at Penn State University, where she not only made dean’s lists each semester but also received numerous awards, given to the top student of the class. While attending Penn State she was invited to join the National Health Pre-professional Honor Society, Alpha Epsilon Delta. She received her D.M.D. (Doctor of Medical Dentistry) from the University Of Pittsburgh’s School Of Dental Medicine, where she graduated with an outstanding academic record. She attended Pitt with an academic scholarship, awarded only to a highly select group of students, showing outstanding academic achievement. Dr. Stringer has focused training in sedation dentistry, oral surgery, and AEGD (Advanced Education in General Dentistry).
On a personal note, she and her husband live in The Villages of Urbana, with Koda their golden retriever. Dr. Stringer enjoys hiking, gardening, fishing, playing the piano, skiing, traveling and playing fetch with her dog.
Dr. EJ’s is a sponsor of The United Way, YMCA, SPCA, UNICEF, Goodwill, and NPR.
Dr. Pratik Patel, DDS FRCD (C)
Frederick, MD Endodontist
Dr. Pratik Patel, a native of Virginia, attended Bishop Ireton High School. He graduated from The George Washington University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science. Dr. Patel received his Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) from SUNY at Buffalo, School of Dental Medicine and completed his General Practice Residency at Lehigh Valley Hospital in Allentown, Pennsylvania. After working as a General Dentist, Dr. Patel decided to pursue further training and specialize in Endodontics. He received his Certificate in Endodontics from Columbia University in New York City.
Dr. Patel is a Specialist member of the American Association of Endodontists. He is a Fellow of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada [FRCD(C)], and has Specialist Registration with the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario. Dr. Patel has performed pro bono work abroad in third world countries, such as in India and Guatemala. He enjoys traveling, sports, and outdoor activities. His favorite teams to watch are the Nationals, Capitals, and Redskins!
Dr. Brian Chang
Oral Surgeon in Frederick, MD
PearlFection Dentistry
Dr. Brian Chang is a native of the Washington Metropolitan area, growing up in Silver Spring, Maryland. He then earned his undergraduate degree at the University of Virginia in Biology and Economics.
Dr. Chang earned his dental degree from the University of Pennsylvania through the Health Professional Scholarship Program from the U.S. Army. He decided to pursue additional training and completed his residency in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at Walter Reed Army Medical Center and Bethesda Naval Medical Center. He spent the following four years as the Chief of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at Fort Polk, Louisiana, treating our soldiers and other service members.
Dr. Chang decided to come back to the Frederick, Maryland area with the surgical knowledge and expertise gained from his training in the army.
He is active in a variety of professional associations and has been published in professional journals.
Dr. Chang is board certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.
Dr. Stephen Tigani
Orthodontist in Frederick, MD
Dr. Tigani is committed to providing his patients with the best possible orthodontic care in the Washington area. He has worked in orthodontics for over fifteen years and believes in treating each and every patient with the individual care and attention they deserve. Dr. Tigani is passionate about his profession and enjoys combining the art and science of orthodontics. He provides his patients with the latest technology and advances in orthodontics while maintaining a personal and caring relationship with every adult, teen or child. Dr. Tigani believes every patient should have a healthy, happy smile that lasts a lifetime.
Dr. Tigani received his Bachelor of Science degree from Georgetown University in 1988 where he majored in Psychology and minored in Biology. He then received his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore College of Dental Surgery, Dental School in 1992, after which, he worked with his father, brother, sister and brother-in-law as a general dentist while pursuing his orthodontic degree. Dr. Tigani then completed a two-year orthodontic residency program at Columbia University in 1995.
Dr. Tigani is a native Washingtonian who is involved at both the professional and community levels. He is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, the World Federation of Orthodontists, the American Dental Association, the District of Columbia Dental Society, and a fellow of the International College of Dentists (ICD) and the American College of Dentists (ACD). The ICD is an honorary international organization that recognizes dentists for outstanding and meritorious service to the profession of dentistry and to the community. The ACD's members exemplify excellence through outstanding leadership and exceptional contributions to dentistry and society. He is a past President of the District of Columbia Dental Society, a component of the ADA that helps in the further advancement of the dental profession while being an advocate for the community and dentistry as a whole. Dr. Tigani is the past Chairman for the D.C. Dental Society's "Give Kids a Smile Program," an annual event providing oral health care to low-income families in the Washington, DC area. He currently represents the District of Columbia Dental Society as a delegate to the American Dental Association and also serves on the ADA Council on Membership.
Dr. Tigani has been involved with his community civic associations, coaches soccer and basketball for the past 20 years, and serves on numerous boards and councils. He is currently a delegate to the American Dental Association. He has been married for 27 years and has four children who attend various colleges and graduate schools.
Dr. Ashley Seals
Periodontist in Frederick, MD
PearlFection Dentistry
Dr. Ashley Seals, a native of the Washington, DC area, graduated from the University of Maryland, College Park with a bachelor degree in Neurobiology/Physiology. Dr. Seals earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Howard University College of Dentistry, where she was inducted into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon Honor Dental Society. Dr. Seals went on to complete a 3-year surgical residency in Periodontics at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine in New York, where she also earned her Masters in Periodontics. During her time at Columbia University, she performed extensive research at the Center for Craniofacial Regeneration and was an associate clinical faculty member. Dr. Seals is also a board-certified diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology, qualifying her to be proficient in advanced gum surgery and implantology. Dr. Seals is an active member of several professional organizations including American Dental Association, American Academy of Periodontology, DC Dental Society, and Greater Washington Academy of Women Dentists. Outside of the office, Dr. Seals enjoys hiking, kayaking, watching basketball, international cuisine, and live performing arts.
Dr. Tammira Badakhshan, DDS, MS
Dentist in Frederick, MD
PearlFection Dentistry
Dr. Tammira Badakhshan is a Maryland native. She was born and raised in Gaithersburg, Maryland. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Maryland, College Park with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. She then attended the University Of Maryland Dental School in Baltimore where she earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. While in dental school, Dr. Badakhshan gained ample experience in all aspects of dentistry. After dental school, she moved back to her hometown and is now privileged to be serving the dental health care needs of her community.
As a member of the Maryland State Dental Association, American Dental Association, and Academy of General Dentistry, Dr. Badakhshan is one of the most well-respected young dentists in Maryland. She is enhancing her skills with continuing education courses each year. Dr. Badakhshan believes in providing the highest quality of dental care, in a friendly and comfortable environment, while maintaining lasting relationships with each individual.
Outside of work, Dr. Badakhshan enjoys spending time with family and friends and loves traveling to new places. She is fluent in Farsi.
Dr. Amos Chi
Prosthodontist in Frederick, MD
PearlFection Dentistry
Dr. Chi is a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Army. Dr. Chi graduated from the University of Virginia with a bachelor degree in Biochemistry. He was awarded the Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Maryland in 2005. He completed a three-year residency program specializing in prosthodontics at the U.S. Army Postgraduate Dental School in Augusta, Georgia in 2008, and a Master of Sciences in Oral Biology from Dental College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA. His thesis entitled ‘Resistance to abrasion of extrinsic porcelain esthetic characterization techniques.’ was published, in July 2017, in the Army Medical Department Journal. Dr. Chi has to his credit a fellowship in Oral Oncology and Maxillofacial Prosthodontics from The University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas in 2018 where his clinical work titled ‘Prosthodontic treatment of a patient with Ewing sarcoma of the left maxillary sinus: A clinical report’ was accepted for publication in 2018, in the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry.
Dr. Chi has been conferred numerous awards. In 2018, he was conferred the Maxillofacial Foundation Award by the American Academy of Maxillofacial Prosthodontics. In July 2016, Dr. Chi was awarded Meritorious Service Medal by the United States Army. Dr. Chi was as an ‘Invited Speaker’ at International Congress of Oral Implantologists, Korea Section and Seoul International *Dental* Exhibition & Scientific Congress on the topic of ‘Zirconia Restorations’.
Dr. Chi has multiple scientific papers published in both national and international journals as well as poster discussions at national conferences. Dr. Chi presented two abstracts entitled ‘Prosthodontic treatment of a patient with Ewing sarcoma of the left maxillary sinus: A clinical report’ and ‘The effects of zinc on radiation-induced dysgeusia: A meta-analysis’ during American Academy of Maxillofacial Prosthodontics and American College of Prosthodontists meetings in 2018.
Dr. Chi is a Diplomate of the American Board of Prosthodontics, a Fellow of the American College of Prosthodontists, and an Associate Fellow of the American Academy of Maxillofacial Prosthetics.
Dr. Nikta Pashai
Dentist in Frederick, MD
PearlFection Dentistry
Dr. Nikta Pashai is a general dentist that is devoted to giving quality patient care and building long term relationships with each of her patients. She is committed to providing healthy smiles through carefully designed and customized treatment plans. As a member of the American Dental Association, Maryland State Dental Association, and Academy of General Dentistry, she is dedicated to continued education and staying current with new advances in the dental field.
Dr. Nikta Pashai was born and raised in Ellicott City, Maryland. She attended University of Maryland, College Park, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. She earned her dental degree from University of Maryland School of Dentistry in Baltimore. While in dental school, Dr. Pashai enjoyed giving back to the community by participating in Mid- Maryland Mission of Mercy events and providing dental screenings for Special Olympics participants..
After completing her dental degree, Dr. Pashai went on to complete an Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency program at University of Maryland School of Dentistry. During her residency, Dr. Pashai was able to expand on her current skills by managing complex comprehensive cases and gaining proficiency with cutting edge technology.
In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling and outdoor activities.
Dr. Joseph Lee DDS
Endodontic Specialist in Frederick
PearlFection Dentistry
Dr. Joseph Lee DDS is an accomplished and experienced endodontic specialist who is dedicated to the principles of medical excellence and total patient care. Dr. Lee earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery, degrees from Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery, after graduating from dental school, he was accepted into the elite training program of the U.S. Army AEGD Residency program and stationed at Fort Meade, MD. With his doctorate degree secured, Dr. Lee decided that he wanted to specialize and excel in root canal treatment, so he applied and was accepted into the Case Western Reserve University School of Dentistry’s specialty program in endodontics. At Case Western, Dr. Lee earned his Master of Science in Dentistry in Endodontics. This degree is reserved for those dentists who have demonstrated exceptional skills and have completed a rigorous study and clinical program specializing in the field of endodontics. These advance degrees assure patients that the doctor who will be performing their root canal has skills and training far in advanced of the average dentist.
Dr. Lee has practiced dentistry around the world administering General Dentistry with the US Army in Korea, Walter Reed Hospital and at Fort Eustis, VA.
Dr. Lee believes in communicating with patients along every step of the endodontic process and encourages patients to ask questions before, during and after the root canal is completed. His goal is to not only perform exception endodontic care, but to provide exception customer service, so patients never feel like a number.
In order to facilitate root canal procedures at the Frederick Maryland locations, Dr. Joseph Lee utilizes the state of the art in endodontic surgery microscopy, as well as Cone Beam CT technology, rotary endodontic hand pieces, and top of the line materials to provide the best outcome possible.
Dr. Heather Sholander DMD
Pediatric Dental Specialist in Frederick
PearlFection Dentistry
Treating kids and putting a smile on their faces has always been the goal. For almost two decades Dr. Sholander has been taking care of the dental needs of children and she would love to meet yours. While helping kids' smiles grow is a major priority, she also wants them to enjoy the process, whether that means talking about their interests, playing games, breaking out in song or helping them express their dental concerns.
Growing up in a family of medical professionals, Dr. Sholander was exposed to dentistry at a young age, enabling her to pursue her dream of becoming a pediatric dentist. After graduating from the University of Georgia with her undergraduate degree, Dr. Sholander completed her Doctorate of Dental Medicine at the Medical College of Georgia. She also achieved a Master in Oral Biology, reinforcing her desire to provide the most current and scientifically driven dental care for her patients. She practiced as a Family Dentist for 6 years before getting married and returning to school to specialize in Pediatric Dentistry. When her specialty program at the Georgia Health and Science University was completed, she moved to the DMV (DC, Maryland, Virginia) area with her family.
When she is not in the office laughing along with her patients, she likes to spend time with her husband, two daughters and her dog. The whole family can usually be found exploring a hiking trail, museum, new restaurant or just a good book.
In order to provide the best dental care for children at the PearlFection Dentistry Frederick and Urbana, Maryland locations, Dr. Sholander utilizes the state of the art in pediatric dental technology, nitrous oxide delivery systems, Cone Beam CT technology, and top of the line materials to provide the best possible outcomes, in a safe and comfortable, child friendly and reassuring environment.
Dr. Heather Sholander is backed up by the PearlFection Team of 11 other doctors, including 4 general and cosmetic dentists Drs. EJ Stringer, Jared Lawson, Tammira Badakhshan and Nikta Pashai, 1 oral surgeon, Dr. Brian Chang, two endodontists, Dr. Pratik Patel and Dr. Joseph Lee, a periodontist, Dr. Ashley Seals, an orthodontist, Dr. Stephen Tigani, and a prosthodontist, Dr. Amos Chi , and a support staff of dental hygienists, assistants and front team. The goal at PearlFection is to always have the most skilled doctor in their particular field do the dental procedures that they are best at. That may be why PearlFection has such outstanding outcomes and 98% of our patients say they would refer a friend or family member.
PearlFection Dentistry has two locations, one in Urbana, Maryland and one in Frederick Maryland and is owned and operated by our dentists. Dr. Sholander sees pediatric dental patients at both locations.
So if your kids need pediatric dental care, orthodontics, teeth extractions or just a semi-annual teeth cleaning in Frederick Maryland, Urbana Maryland or the surrounding Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, DC or West Virginia area, you could take your kids to a general dentist, or you can put your kids’ teeth and long term health in the hands of a specialist doctor like Heather Sholander DDS, who has spent her career focusing on the dental care of children.
At PearlFection Dentistry our patients have access to all our specialists, but unlike other dentists who may refer a patient out for pediatric care or wisdom teeth extractions or orthodontics, you never pay for multiple consultations at PearlFection. If you need to see multiple specialists and general dentists, there is only one consultation fee for a particular issue. This can save you hundreds of dollars and a lot of time, because all procedures are done under one roof, we call this comprehensive dental care.
PearlFection and Dr Sholander are accepting new patients, we accept most dental insurances, and we are open 6 days a week. Call 301-663-5550 in Frederick or 301-831-8303 to make an appointment or visit our website at www.pearlfectiondentistry.com or www.pearlfectionurbana.com to make an appointment online.
Dr. Scott Pasieta
Prosthodontist in Frederick
PearlFection Dentistry
Dr. Scott Pasieta is a Dual Board-Certified Periodontist with over a decade of experience in gum disease treatment, advanced cosmetic procedures, and the placement of dental implants. He completed his graduate studies at the University of Maryland Dental School and went on to earn his certificate in Periodontics from the Naval Postgraduate Dental School in Bethesda, Maryland. As a Navy Periodontist, Dr. Pasieta was afforded the opportunity to practice and travel all over the world. This included a stop in the Aloha State, where he established a private Periodontic practice and served as an attending Clinical Periodontics faculty member for the New York University Waikiki Health Clinic.
Dr. Pasieta is a board-certified Diplomate of both the American Board of Periodontology (ABP) and the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI), the world’s largest dental implant organization. He also maintains active memberships with the American Academy of Periodontology and the American Dental Association (ADA). Dr. Pasieta utilizes his advanced knowledge and expertise to perform implant surgery, crown lengthening, gum recontouring, and pocket reduction procedures. He also supports patients with non-surgical root planing and scaling treatments to clean and repair damaged tissues.
While in the office, Dr. Pasieta has at his disposal the most advanced facilities, equipment, and tools available for gum surgery and implantology, which helps him to ensure the ongoing oral health and wellness of his patients while providing the best possible outcome. Outside of the office, he enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, cooking, attending the theater, and watching sports.
As a Periodontist, Dr. Pasieta specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of inflammatory diseases that affect the gums and other tooth-supporting tissues. Periodontists treat cases ranging from mild gingivitis to severe gum infections and other conditions requiring aggressive periodontal therapy or surgical intervention, including the placement of dental implants.
What is a Periodontist and why do I need one
The gums are an important yet frequently overlooked part of the human anatomy.
Meet Our Dental Hygienists, Dental Assistants & Staff
Randala
Graduated from Frederick High School. Took advertising classes at Career and technology center. Studied Psychology and business at Frederick Community College. Native to Frederick but frequently loves to travel and loves spending time with her family, friends, and dog.
Molly - Office Administrator
Born and raised in Middletown, Maryland. graduated from Middletown High School and graduated Towson University in May 2016 with her degree in Psychology. Plans to attend hygiene school within the next few years. Enjoys fishing, family game nights and hiking.
Susan - Dental Assistant
Susan has worked as a dental assistant for Dr. Mullen for 14 years. Her father is a retired DDS and sparked her interest in the dental field at a young age. Susan finds it especially enjoyable getting to know the patients and helping them feel comfortable and relaxed through their dental experience. She loves the outdoors, playing tennis, and spending time with her family. Susan has a husband of 30 years, six kids, and five grandkids.
Jessica - Orthodontic and Dental Assistant
As having my radiology certificate and being an orthodontic assistant, I enjoy helping patients achieve the smile they want. When I'm not at work, I love spending time with my kids.
Danielle - Dental Hygienist
Danielle is a native of Virginia Beach, VA. She graduated Cum Laude with a B.S. in Dental Hygiene from Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Dentistry in Richmond, VA and received a B.S. in Marketing at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, VA. Danielle fell in love with dentistry by volunteering at an American Red Cross dental clinic and therefore pursued a career as a dental hygienist. She strives to make each patient’s appointment a positive experience while focusing on oral and overall health. In her free time, Danielle enjoys reading, being outside, cooking, and spending time with her family, friends, and dog.
Mikaela Smith
Mikaela graduated from Hagerstown Community College with an A.A.S. in Dental Hygiene. She was given the award for Outstanding Student in Dental Hygiene. She is also licensed to administer local anesthesia. Outside of work she enjoys cooking, making crafts, and spending time with her friends and family.
Shabnam
Shabnam is native to Maryland and graduated from the Community College of Baltimore County Dental Hygiene Program with an A.A.S and is licensed to administer local anesthesia. Outside of the Dental field she is a Licensed Massage Therapist and enjoys yoga, dance, traveling and spending time with her son.
Jenna - Scheduling Coordinator
Coming Soon!
Lita Hudson, CDA
Lita has been a National Board’s Certified Dental Assistant and an Active Dental Radiation Technologist since 1995. Lita primarily assists our general doctors to provide excellent dental care to our wonderful patients. As a dental assistant, Lita takes digital x-rays, impressions and performs any necessary lab work. Lita enjoys spending individual time with each patient during their visit, explaining the procedures that will be done, giving them advice on what to expect before, during and after the procedure, answering any questions and attending to the patient’s needs. Lita is also responsible for sterilization instruments, OSHA monitoring and coordinating with outside laboratories.
The most rewarding thing about her job is when the patients are smiling, thanking her when they leave because we’ve exceeded their expectations. Lita is proud to be part of this the PearlFection team.
On a personal note, Lita has been married to her husband Bob since March 1990, together they have three daughters, one son and a faithful Yorkshire terrier. Lita enjoys hanging out with her family, cooking, traveling, gardening and taking pictures of her children’s sporting events.