Dr. Ben-Elazar
Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist in South Florida
Dr. Karen Ben-Elazar is a board-certified pediatric dentist dedicated to creating positive, confidence-building dental experiences for children and families across South Florida. She believes early dental care should feel gentle, reassuring, and supportive—helping children feel safe while giving parents clarity and peace of mind. With advanced pediatric training and a strong focus on prevention, Dr. Ben partners closely with families to build healthy habits early and support growing smiles at every stage.
Dr. Karen Ben-Elazar was born and raised in New Jersey before making South Florida her home. From an early stage in her education, she was drawn to the balance of science, creativity, and human connection that dentistry provides. Her natural ability to connect with children, paired with a desire to create positive early healthcare experiences, led her to pursue pediatric dentistry.
She earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine in 2019. Following dental school, Dr. Ben completed an advanced pediatric dentistry residency at the University of Florida’s Naples campus. This specialized training provided extensive experience in child-focused preventive care, behavior guidance, and comprehensive treatment planning tailored to infants, children, and adolescents.
Dr. Ben is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, a distinction that reflects advanced clinical knowledge, continued education, and a commitment to the highest standards of pediatric dental care. Her clinical approach emphasizes prevention, education, and trust—helping children develop healthy habits while reducing anxiety around dental visits.
When working with anxious or hesitant children, Dr. Ben takes time to meet them at their emotional level. She explains each step in age-appropriate language, encourages questions, and allows children to feel a sense of control throughout their visit. By celebrating small successes and moving at a comfortable pace, she helps children build confidence and positive associations with dental care.
Dr. Ben believes parents deserve clear, compassionate communication. She takes time to explain findings, treatment options, and home care routines so families feel informed and supported in every decision. Her goal is never to rush care, but to partner with parents in supporting long-term oral health.
She chose to practice at Jacaranda Smiles because of its strong emphasis on prevention, communication, and creating a warm, child-centered environment. Dr. Ben values the practice’s commitment to long-term relationships and continuity of care, allowing families to feel supported from early childhood through adolescence.
Outside of the office, Dr. Ben enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, and exploring new restaurants and recipes. A fun fact families enjoy learning is that she has a fraternal twin, and they both share a love of cooking. She has traveled to 39 states and brings the same curiosity, patience, and positivity into her work with children every day.
Why Choose Dr. Ben-Elazar?
Choosing the right pediatric dentist plays an important role in shaping your child’s comfort, confidence, and long-term relationship with dental care. Dr. Ben-Elazar focuses on creating experiences that feel calm, supportive, and reassuring for both children and parents.
Key reasons families choose Dr. Ben include:
- Board-certified pediatric dentist with advanced specialty training
- Pediatric residency completed at the University of Florida
- Strong focus on prevention and early healthy habits
- Gentle, patient-centered care for anxious or first-time patients
- Clear, compassionate communication with parents
- Emphasis on trust, comfort, and confidence-building
- Part of a collaborative, family-focused Jacaranda Smiles team
Dr. Ben believes that when children feel understood and parents feel informed, dental care becomes a positive partnership. Her calm, encouraging approach helps families feel confident at every stage of their child’s smile journey.
Dental Degree
- Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)
- Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine
- Class of 2019
Pediatric Specialty Training
- Pediatric Dentistry Residency
- University of Florida – Naples Campus
- Advanced child-focused clinical training
Board Certification
- Diplomate
- American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
- Commitment to ongoing professional excellence
Professional Focus
- Preventive Pediatric Dentistry
- Early childhood oral health education
Specializing in Pediatric Dental Care for Growing Smiles
Dr. Ben-Elazar provides comprehensive pediatric dental care designed to support children from their first dental visit through adolescence. Her approach focuses on prevention, comfort, and clear guidance for families.
- First Dental Visits – Gentle introductions that build trust
- Preventive Dentistry – Cleanings, exams, and habit education
- Restorative Care – Thoughtful treatment when needed
- Sedation Dentistry – Options designed for comfort and safety
- Emergency Dentistry – Calm, reassuring care when it matters most
- Special Needs Dentistry – Personalized care tailored to each child
Every treatment plan is customized based on your child’s age, comfort level, and developmental needs. Dr. Ben works closely with parents to ensure recommendations feel appropriate, clear, and supportive.
STEP 1
A Warm Welcome
Children are greeted with kindness and guided through the visit at their own pace.
STEP 2
Gentle Examination
Each step is explained in simple, age-appropriate language to reduce uncertainty.
STEP 3
Personalized Care Planning
Treatment options are discussed openly with parents, focusing on prevention and long-term health.
STEP 4
Ongoing Support
Families leave with guidance, reassurance, and a clear plan for future care.
Pediatric Dentistry
Gentle, preventive, and kid-focused dental care designed to build healthy habits and positive experiences from the very first visit.
- Routine cleanings and exams
- Preventive care and education
- Gentle care for dental concerns
- Emergency visits for kids
- Supportive, child-centered approach
Making dental visits enjoyable for every child. Our team uses specialized approaches to help children feel safe and comfortable throughout their visit.
- Tell-show-do method
- Positive reinforcement
- Child-friendly language
- Comfort rewards
Regular preventive care is the foundation of lasting oral health. Our comprehensive approach includes professional teeth cleaning, protective treatments, and education to help prevent dental problems before they start. Experience thorough, gentle dental cleanings designed to keep your smile healthy.
Experience stress-free dental care with our comprehensive sedation options. As your trusted sedation dentist in Broward County, we offer multiple levels of sedation to ensure your comfort during any dental procedure.
Support your child’s long-term oral health and comfort with our restorative dentistry in Broward County, addressing issues like damaged or decayed teeth.
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Thursday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
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Monday: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
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