Meet The Team
Dr. Geith James Kallas
A pioneer in modern dentistry for over 25 years! Dr. Kallas earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine (DDS) degree in 1989. In 1993, he graduated from the Howard University College of Dentistry postdoctoral program. While there, he completed his internship at the District of Columbia General Hospital. Since then, he has pursued inter-related continuing education courses, focusing on becoming a premier provider of advanced and comprehensive aesthetic dentistry.
Dr. Kallas realized early in his career that the technologies, materials, and procedures of general dentistry weren’t reaching the high threshold of quality care he had established for himself. He quickly learned that the techniques and materials used in cosmetic dentistry were stronger, healthier, and could also be applied to general dentistry for better, longer-lasting, and more attractive results.
As a result, he pursued advanced training at the Las Vegas Institute (LVI) for Advanced Dental Studies, a leader in providing aesthetic and neuromuscular dentists with the high level of skills necessary to successfully practice the art. Today, he is among only two percent of dentists in the world to have achieved this level of training.
A proponent of advanced training, Dr. Kallas makes sure that his dental team receives the most advanced dental education. Hygienists, assistants, and administrative personnel have been trained in the latest clinical techniques. Education is a continuing mission of the team, and they will do everything possible to ensure that you receive the best personalized care.
Named the Virginia “Dentist of the Year,” Dr. Kallas understands the difference an incredible smile can make in someone’s appearance and confidence. He frequently gives interviews about the latest advancements in dental technology. He has improved thousands of smiles in his practice, making him highly skilled in the art and science of smile design.
Dr. Kallas is distinguished in the U.S. and internationally for excellence in dentistry and for his contributions to his community. His achievements and associations include:
- Top Dentists Consumers’ Research Council of America
- Best of Vienna
- Best Dentist of Vienna, VA
- US Commerce Association
- US Local Business Association Best of Local Business Awards
- American Council of Dental Sciences
- International Association of Dentists – The Leading Physicians of the World
He also donates his time and expertise to the WIN Foundation, which raises money and awareness for battered and homeless women.
Dr. Kallas is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the American Dental Association, the Virginia Dental Association, the Northern Virginia Dental Society, the American Academy of Laser Dentistry, the International Association for Orthodontics, the American Association of Functional Orthodontics, the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain, and the International College of Craniomandibular Orthopedics.
Outside of dentistry, Dr. Kallas spends his time with his wife and two sons. He enjoys traveling and working out, and is an avid fan of the Manchester United Soccer Club. Dr. Kallas serves as a board member for several non-profit organizations.
Dr. Khashayar Changi
Dr. Khashayar Changi completed his specialty training in Periodontics at the prestigious Columbia University College of Dental Medicine. His residency program provided him with the capability to diagnose and manage all types of periodontal and peri-implantitis diseases and conditions. Proficient in both non-surgical and surgical periodontal treatment modalities, Dr. Changi has had extensive instruction and experience in all facets of oral implantology, treatment of gum recession and gum grafting, immediate and delayed implant placement, digital treatment planning, guided bone regeneration, implant temporization, and management of peri-implant disease.
His approach to patient treatment includes a comprehensive multi-disciplinary method, designed to customize the patient treatment and experience. Dr. Changi always looks for the best outcome for his patients.
Dr. Changi spent most of his adult life in Europe, Los Angeles, and New York before moving to the Washington, DC area.
Dr. Maimi Yamaguchi
Dr. Yamaguchi was born and raised in Tokyo, Japan. She graduated from Nihon University School of Dentistry in Tokyo in 2008. Dr. Yamaguchi practiced for four years as a general dentist after completing her one one-year general practice residency.
In 2012, she moved to the United States to embark upon her chosen career path in endodontics. She was accepted into the post-graduate endodontics program at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine where she received her Certificate of Endodontics in June 2015. There, Dr. Yamaguchi was published in the Journal of Endodontics, refined her surgery skills, and taught several undergraduate classes in the School of Dentistry as well as Continuing Education courses in Microsurgery.
Dr. Yamaguchi is a member of the American Association of Endodontists (AAE) and was a presenter at the annual AAE meeting in Seattle, Washington in 2015.
Dr. Yamaguchi relocated to Northern Virginia in September 2016 and looks forward to a long career in the NOVA area.
Dr. Sepideh Sabounchi
Dr. Rashmi Kolichala
Dr. Rashmi Kolichala is a highly accomplished dental professional, distinguished by her exceptional educational background and extensive expertise in various facets of dentistry. Her unwavering dedication to the field and her patients’ well-being has illuminated her remarkable journey.
Dr. Rashmi embarked on her dental odyssey by earning her Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) in 2009 in India, where her passion for dentistry began to flourish. She honed her skills as an associate dentist and later established her own dental practice in her homeland. After her initial success in India, she sought new horizons and made the bold move to the USA.
In pursuit of excellence, Dr. Rashmi continued her education and completed her Master of Dental Clinical Sciences (MDS) with a specialization in Advanced Education in Orofacial Pain and Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD) at the prestigious Rutgers School of Dental Medicine in Newark, NJ, USA.
Dr. Rashmi’s proficiency extends across a wide spectrum of dental procedures, encompassing dental hygiene, restorations, root canals, extractions, crowns, and emergency treatments. However, her true expertise lies in the realm of orofacial pain and TMD. Driven by her commitment to patient comfort, she excels in diagnosing and treating TMJ/TMD disorders, employing innovative techniques such as appliance therapy, oral splints, and trigger point injections to alleviate myofascial pain conditions.
Moreover, Dr. Rashmi’s dedication to holistic patient care extends to sleep dentistry. She specializes in diagnosing and treating sleep-related breathing disorders, with a particular focus on obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Her proficiency in appliance therapy offers a lifeline to those suffering from mild to moderate sleep apnea conditions, ensuring they achieve restful and rejuvenating sleep.
Dr. Rashmi Kolichala’s journey is an inspiring testament to the power of unwavering commitment, continuous learning, and compassionate patient care. Her impact in the world of dentistry is profound, making her a shining star in the field.
Beyond her professional life, Dr. Rashmi finds solace and joy in her family. She cherishes quality time with her husband and two beloved boys, savoring the simple pleasures of life. Additionally, her creative spirit finds expression in painting, while music and gardening provide her with a delightful respite from the rigors of her profession.
Francesca E. Pregano, MBA
Francesca E. Pregano is the Chief Operations Officer of Smile Makers Dental Center. At Smile Makers Dental Center, she works closely with the owner and CEO in building a multi-location company that provides a unique multi-specialty business model – treating a wide demographic of patients across Northern Virginia.
With nearly 15 years of experience in dental management and a Master’s in Business Administration, Francesca’s primary focus is on building teams and operating systems.
With advanced training in leadership and management from the University of Notre Dame College of Business, it is her passion to empower those around her to achieve success.
Francesca is a member of the American Association of Dental Office Managers.
