When it comes to giving everyone in Pembroke Pines, Plantation, and Margate, Florida a great smile – we’re your go-to practice. We offer comprehensive pediatric dental and orthodontic care for kids as young as 2 and as old as 18 in a caring, clean, and safe environment. We also see adult patients for their orthodontic needs, too. At Jacaranda Smiles, we’re on a mission to make you smile which is why we use the most advanced technology to care for our patients.
Our mission is to give the gift of everlasting smiles, and a healthy, friendly and professional environment for our patients and ourselves.
We combine the highest standards of care through advance technology with a knowledgeable and experienced team. It is an honorand privilege to care for our patients and their families with love compassion and respect.
Dr. Milan Khakhria was born and raised in Kenya. Dr. Khakhria enrolled at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, where upon graduation he was awarded the International Dentist of the Year Award and ranked first in his class. Dr. Milan Khakhria continued his education in the Master’s program at the University of Oklahoma Orthodontics Residency. When he is not busy creating beautiful smiles, he loves spending time with his lovely wife Priti, their two sons, and their doodle dog, Zeus.
Dr. Rene Landa was born and raised right here in South Florida as the only child of Cuban/Puerto Rican parents. After graduating from the University of Florida for dental school, he went to Boston University where he received his specialty training in pediatrics. For Dr. Landa, making kids smile is the best part of his day. He loves to challenge himself daily by competing in triathlons, marathons, and adventure races. He loves doing outdoor activities and singing along with his two beautiful kids and his wife and best friend, Andraisa.
Dr. Vanessa Matamoros was born and raised in Port St. Lucie, FL. After receiving her Bachelor of Science degree with a minor in Business from Nova Southeastern University (NSU), she went on to achieve her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree at NSU College of Dental Medicine. She then attended an advanced training residency program at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, where she served as chief resident during her second year. Dr. Matamoros is passionate about educating her patients about the value of healthy oral hygiene habits and its impact on overall wellness. Outside of the office, she enjoys playing the piano to relax and will never ever say no to Mexican food! We are excited to welcome Dr. Vanessa to the Jacaranda Smiles team.
Dr. Hugo Calero is originally from Cali, Colombia, The salsa capital of the world! He graduated with a Doctor in Dental surgery degree from the University of Valle in Colombia, after practicing for several years as a general dentist. He moved to the USA and received his American dental license from the University of Rochester, where he also completed fellowships in TMJ and orofacial pain, community dentistry and pediatric dentistry. Dr. Calero also received his postdoctoral degree in Orthodontics from the University of Rochester. Due to His passion for orthodontics, he did an extra year fellowship in Craniofacial orthodontics at Jacobi Medical Center in New York City where he was trained to treat patients with congenital and acquired dentofacial deformities. Dr. Calero resides in Miami with his wife and two kids and has even found time in his busy career for acting and was on an episode of Law and Order! Dr. Hugo is always on the hunt for new places to eat! So make sure to let him know your favorite spots.
Dr. Monika Srivastava, better known as “Dr. Monika” received her doctorate in Dental Medicine at Boston University, and completed the Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency program at Columbia University in New York City. After working in private practice as a general dentist, Dr. Monika decided to pursue her passion for pediatric smiles and was accepted to St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children pediatric residency program. Dr. Monika is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and an active member within the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
Dr. Ben, a proud Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, was born and raised in New Jersey. She made South Florida her new home, where she earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine in 2019, becoming a shark. Following her DMD degree, Dr. Ben attended an advanced training residency program at the University of Florida, Naples campus, where she became a gator. Through her extensive training, Dr. Ben developed a passion for dental education and prevention, aiming to promote a lifetime of happy, healthy smiles.
Outside of the office, Dr. Ben enjoys spending time with her family, hiking, traveling, and playing soccer.
With 23 years of invaluable experience, our Director of Operations, armed with a Master’s degree in Health Administration, skillfully balances her professional and personal life. Her unwavering love for her husband and four children is matched only by her passion for her role. Michelle takes delight in life’s simpler joys and finds immense gratification in guiding and nurturing others, empowering them to flourish as leaders in their own right.
Lorri is the Treatment Coordinator of the Plantation, Florida office. She is a native New Yorker. She started her career in the dental field 29 years ago. When Lorri is not working, she loves spending time with her husband, son, and daughter, and the ruler of the house – Tinkerbell, their Shih Tzu-Poodle mix. She loves to travel, listen to music, and cook.
Anett was born and raised in Hialeah with native parents from Nicaragua. She has over 10 years of dental experience, she loves knowing that she is a part of perfecting someone’s smiles. On her free time, she enjoys to spend weekends at the beach, with her family and my two furry pets. And last but not least, she has a passion for makeup.
Kevin is a dedicated operations leader with a strong background in team management, customer service, and medical operations. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Florida International University and an Associate’s degree in Business Administration from Miami-Dade College, combining expertise in science and business to support operational success. Kevin has extensive experience overseeing daily operations, managing teams, and ensuring compliance with protocols and regulations. His hands-on background in patient care and medical procedures has honed his problem-solving and critical thinking skills, making him an asset to both his team and the patients he serves. Bilingual and an excellent communicator, Kevin thrives on creating a positive and productive work environment. He is passionate about fostering collaboration and helping his team achieve their goals. Outside of work, Kevin enjoys spending time with his family, staying active, and exploring new interests. His commitment to excellence and leadership makes him an integral part of our organization.
Jose is a dedicated and compassionate Orthodontic Treatment Coordinator with a genuine passion for helping patients achieve their best smiles. With his strong work ethic and thoughtful approach, Jose takes the time to understand each patient’s unique needs and ensures they feel supported throughout their treatment journey. His caring and compassionate nature allow him to build trust and lasting relationships with both patients and their families. Outside of work, Jose is a proud father of three sons, who are his greatest source of joy and inspiration. He also channels his passion for helping others by refereeing youth basketball games, where he enjoys mentoring and guiding young athletes. Jose’s commitment to excellence, combined with his caring personality, makes him a valued member of the team. His genuine dedication to both his patients and his family reflects his deep-rooted values of hard work, compassion, and service.
Melanie is a dedicated and caring Orthodontic Treatment Coordinator with over 20 years of experience in customer service and wellness. She is known for her thoughtful and compassionate approach, always ensuring that each patient feels heard, supported, and confident throughout their treatment process. Her ability to connect with people and provide personalized care is at the heart of her work. As a native New Yorker, Melanie is passionate about helping others live healthier lives. In her free time, she works as a Certified Natural Health Professional and Coach, guiding individuals on their journey to become the healthiest versions of themselves. Melanie is also a proud mother to her son, who is her greatest source of joy and pride. Her commitment to her family, patients, and personal growth reflects her genuine nature and deep dedication to those she serves.
Results-driven Office Manager with extensive experience in the dental practice industry. Proven expertise in operations management, strategic planning, negotiation, and team leadership. Adept at optimizing processes, enhancing efficiency, and driving growth while fostering a collaborative and high-performing team culture. Passionate about coaching and empowering teams to exceed goals and deliver exceptional patient care. Holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business from Pontificia Universidad Católica Madre y Maestra in Santiago, Dominican Republic. Dedicated to achieving organizational success while maintaining a strong work-life balance, enjoying time with family, and traveling.
Arianna Ceballos was born and raised in Ecuador before moving to the United States at the age of 14 to continue her education. Arianna loves to read, run at the parks, play pickleball with her friends, and spend quality time with her family. With a passion for creativity and beauty, Arianna pursued her dreams by attending beauty school on the side, with aspirations to become a talented hairstylist. Combining her love for learning with her artistic side, she is excited to continue growing in both her personal and professional life
We believe every family is special just like every smile is special. That’s why everything we do for our patients is tailormade with the patient’s specific needs, goals, and budget in mind.
Our expert team combines the highest standards of care using the latest in orthodontic technology. We truly feel honored and privileged to care for our patients and their families with love, compassion, and respect.
We offer the convenience of pediatric dentistry and orthodontics throughout our three locations. Our pediatric dentists care for all of our child patients’ dental health needs ranging in age from 1 to 18. And our orthodontists care for the orthodontic needs of our patients ranging in age from 7 to 77+.
Whether you’re at our office for pediatric dentistry or orthodontics, you’ll see the same doctor every time! We believe in consistency which is why when you visit us you’ll be treated by the same doctor every time you come to our office.
The Jacaranda Smiles team is proud of our community and participates in several events that support it. You will see our smiling faces outside our office.
It is important to us that we make you feel at home when you visit us. We are conveniently located in Plantation, East Pembroke Pines, West Pembroke Pines, and Margate.
Our doctors believe in an open line of communication to ensure that our patients are in the finest dental care.
We are proud of our highly accomplished and diverse team members. With a combined experience of over 100+ years, you are in good hands. A member of our staff is available to speak with you in the following languages to ensure your treatment is efficient and comfortable:
Join the Jacaranda Family. Join the fun.
Monday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday By Appointment Only
