Pediatric Dentistry Falls Church, VA
Meet Dr. Lara
Start your oral health & hygiene journey with me & Dr. Toothfairy
First Dental Visit
Learn why a child's first dental visit is important and special.
Pediatric Dental Services
Comprehensive treatment and dental care for children.
Welcome to Dr Toothfairy Pediatric Dentistry
Our Committment
to your family’s journey towards exceptional health
Dr Toothfairy is constantly striving to ensure that we are the leading dental home for families in the communities we serve, by offering them safe, superior and evidence-based dental care in a sparkling, technologically advanced environment.
Our Goal
Better Health & Oral Hygiene
Our goal is to inspire and educate your child to care about their teeth by making every visit fun and comfortable, one which he or she will remember fondly—in addition to looking forward to future visits as they grow.
Meet Dr. Lara Saleh
Pediatric Dentist
Lara Saleh, DDS, MS
Dr. Lara is a board-certified pediatric dentist and a diplomate of the American board of pediatric dentistry, who treats infants, children, adolescents, and patients with special needs in a fun, friendly, and safe environment.
After graduating from dental school, Dr. Lara completed her fellowship in restorative dentistry at Case Western Reserve University. She then went on to complete her residency and Master’s degree in pediatric dentistry at the University of Michigan, the #1 dental school in the US (Go Blue!). From a young age, Dr. Lara has been passionate about working with children. Pursuing a career as a pediatric dentist was a natural fit, combining her aspiration for teaching and fondness for the medical field.
Dr. Lara began her career as a staff dentist at the University of Michigan Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics. As a highly impassioned parent to two young children, she prioritizes engagement with her patients and parents during every stage of the diagnosis and treatment process. She is honored to have been voted the best pediatric dentist in Loudon County by Posh magazine. Dr. Lara is fluent in English, Arabic and French. She enjoys traveling and volunteering, particularly in the context of treating children.
Meet Dr. Teresa L. Roberts
Pediatric Anesthesiologist
Teresa L. Roberts, MD, FASA
Teresa L. Roberts, MD, FASA is the founder of Oak Hill Anesthesia Services, PLLC, and provides concierge anesthesia services to dental and medical offices. She is a diplomate of the American Board of Anesthesiology and has Board Certifications in Adult and Pediatric Anesthesiology.
She was recently awarded fellowship designation from the American Society of Anesthesiology (FASA) for her contributions and leadership in the field of Anesthesiology. Dr. Roberts graduated with Distinction from The George Washington University, School of Medicine in Washington, DC. She remained at The George Washington University Hospital for her post graduate training, completing an Internship in Internal Medicine and her Residency in Anesthesiology. She was awarded the position of Chief Resident in her final year of her Residency. She pursued additional training and expertise in pediatrics by completing her Pediatric Anesthesiology fellowship at Children’s National Health Systems (CNHS) in Washington, DC. After graduating she joined the faculty at CNHS and was actively involved in education. She completed a Master Teacher Leadership Development Certification from the George Washington University Graduate School of Education and Human Development and became the Associate Program Director for the Pediatric Anesthesiology Fellowship Program.
Dr. Roberts has been an invited guest speaker at local and national conferences. She is an active member of the Society for Ambulatory Anesthesia and the Office Based Anesthesia Committee and remains dedicated to education in all settings. She regularly provides training to colleagues in both medical and dental specialties, mentors high school, university and medical students, and serves as an Oral Board Examiner for the American Board of Anesthesiology.
She is passionate about providing care to all patients, and particularly enjoys caring for children, special needs patients and adults with anxiety and fear related to their care.
Her passions outside of work include spending time with her husband and two daughters, traveling, hiking, and skiing.
Meet Dr. Bommy Mershon
Pediatric Anesthesiologist
Bommy Mershon, MD, FASA
Dr. Bommy Hong Mershon is a passionate and dedicated physician, triple board-certified in general pediatrics, general anesthesiology, and pediatric anesthesiology. She finds immense fulfillment in caring for patients of all ages, particularly children, during their most vulnerable moments undergoing surgery.
Dr. Mershon’s journey to becoming an anesthesiologist began at Johns Hopkins University, where she earned a B.A. in Public Health in 2000. She then attended New York Medical College, graduating in 2006. Driven by her love for children, she completed a residency in general pediatrics at Georgetown University Hospital in 2009, serving as chief resident in 2010. To further enhance her skills in caring for critically ill patients, she pursued anesthesiology training at Johns Hopkins (2010-2013), culminating in a specialized fellowship in pediatric anesthesiology in 2014.
During her time at Johns Hopkins, Dr. Mershon served as an Assistant Professor, conducting research in intraoperative handoffs, patient safety, and physician wellness. She also held key leadership roles as the Pediatric Liver Transplant Lead Anesthesiologist and Assistant Director of Patient Safety and Quality for the Department of Anesthesiology. Her commitment to patient safety extends to her active involvement with the Anesthesia Patient Safety Foundation.
Believing in a personalized, “concierge” approach to patient care, Dr. Mershon is excited to join Dr. Teresa Roberts in establishing a practice dedicated to providing exceptional and comprehensive anesthesia care for adults and children.
Outside of her medical practice, Dr. Mershon enjoys spending time with her husband, their two children and their Maltipoo, Caramel. She is passionate about supporting her children’s love of basketball, embracing her Korean culture, and actively serving at her local church.
Dr Toothfairy's Pediatric Dentistry Falls Church Office
Directions
Free Parking
Free public parking with nearby shopping, cafes, and restaurants.
Our Office
Our office is welcoming, clean, and safe for all of us. Book an appointment
What Sets Us Apart: Our Approach
We're proud professionals and parents
We're in this together
We believe that parents have a right to be fully informed about every recommendation pertaining to their children’s health. We consider ourselves your partners in this journey towards optimal health, and we encourage parents to make the decisions they are convinced are best, and safest, for their children. This includes reviewing and considering alternative options that can be considered for your children, and arriving at the decision that is best-suited to them.
Safety conscience
Our office uses the most biocompatible materials, which provide the best outcomes for your children’s dental health and general wellbeing. This includes an unwavering commitment to safety, which includes:
- 100% Mercury free fillings
- BPA-free composites (white fillings)
- Minimal necessary radiographic exposure (x-rays)
- Fluoride and non-fluoride options
We are delighted that what’s safest and best for our children is also what’s best for the planet whose future they will shape!
Healthy, comfortable office visits
When your child comes to our Falls Church office, we prioritize their health and their comfort. We have a baby studio for newborns and infants, and entertainment options that range from a glow in the dark room to TVs above each chair–enabling them to watch their favorite shows. Our magical toothfairy doors, inspired by the Urban Fairy Doors are located throughout downtown Ann Arbor, Michigan allow young children to exchange notes with the toothfairy, and get rewarded for triumphs such as getting rid of their pacifiers, breaking a bad habit (such as thumb sucking) or losing their first tooth.
A community of professionals
Our office is part of the leading community of dental professionals in the US, and we are delighted to refer you to leading professionals that complement our services, including orthodontists, oral surgeons, general dentists, speech pathologists, myofunctional specialists, pediatricians, pediatric ENTs, or other specialists you may be seeking.
Pediatric Dentistry Second Opinions
identifying the best path (or paths) to your child’s dental well-being
If you have questions or doubts about a specific treatment decision or problem that pertains to your child’s dental health, our office will be happy to schedule a short visit to review your options and provide you with a free second opinion.
Evidence-based dentistry
Identifying the best path for your childrens’ treatment is an essential component of their journey to optimal oral health. Dr. Lara is a committed practitioner of evidence-based dentistry, which emphasizes identifying the best path (or paths) to your child’s dental well-being. Please note that out of respect for our peers, we are unable to compare prices or treatment plans.
What Others Say About Dr. Toothfairy
Thank you, Dr. Lara for a fantastic dental experience for my 2 girls!! So happy we began our dental journey with you. We hope to continue to come to your practice for many more years!!
When we emailed about 2 weeks later asking for a revised "good faith estimate", dentist Saleh was offended and said we were acting in bad faith and would not treat my daughter. We had to explain to her that a "good faith estimate" is a legal term used for all providers. Why didn't you even know this as a provider? We also explained that HER STAFF ASKED US to send comparable pricing in which we found lower prices for the services being offered. Essentially, we were asking for a discount because we were paying out of pocket. For whatever reason, she was offended by this and again refused to treat my daughter.
Dentist Saleh: you are pissed at the wrong people. You should be pissed at your staff who suggested to us to find and send comparables to you. Even if you didn't want to give us a further discount, you could have just said "this is the best I can do, take it or leave it". But you were rude and highly unprofessional to us. And no, our email was not an apology to you by any means, it was a clarification. We are not going to apologize for explaining to you what a "good faith estimate" is or for asking for a discount for your overpriced services. We will be taking our daughter to a more competent dentist. We have also filed a complaint with CMS against your office.
It was our daughter’s first dentist visit. Everything is so thoughtful - from the ability to pre-fill out documents/info needed to the toys, atmosphere, friendly staff, and the custom welcome.
My daughter loved all the books and toys. Even though she was not the most happy during the actual exam (lol), the whole set up is genius in making the experience super efficient and easy. Dr. Lara was so gentle, caring, and friendly. We are grateful for the recommendation and look forward to the next visit.
them brush her teeth and take xrays. The stafff really made her comfortable and I love that they get treats at the end of each visit.
Dr. Laura is very knowledgeable, fun, and gentle. My son used to be terrified of going to the dentist, and we tried many different places before we finally found Dr. Toothfairy. She let him watch Minecraft videos on YouTube during his exam, and he was thrilled!
Dr. Laura is also up-to-date with all the latest studies and is open to different treatments and alternatives. She has a big heart and a wonderful personality! Her staff is very helpful, and the office is decorated to match kids' interests.
I definitely recommend this place!
Dr.Lara was exceptionally patient and kind with my son, explaining every step of the process in a way that was easy for him to understand. The gentle and caring approach made the entire experience stress-free for both of us.
The clinic is clean, well-organized, and equipped with the latest technology, which reassured me that my son was receiving top-notch care. I was particularly impressed by how Dr.Lara handled my son's nervousness, turning what could have been a frightening experience into a positive one.
Thank you, Dr.Lara, for your exceptional care and dedication. I highly recommend Dr. ToothFairy clinic address:-105 E Annandale rd suite 215 Falls church to any parent looking for a fantastic pediatric dentist.
My daughter had some extensive appointments, but got to choose from different laughing gas smells (chocolate, vanilla, bubblegum), once set in she received injections using a painless and musical shot tool. In all the appointments went much better than January, and we were able to avoid General Anesthesia (that was recommended by other dentist) altogether.
Thank Dr. Toothfairy for providing top notch care!
If you are looking for a sign to choose Dr. Toothfairy this is it!
Dr. Toothfairy and the entire staff are exceptionally kind and patient. They took the time to explain every step of the process in a way that was easy for us to understand, which made us feel comfortable and relaxed.
What truly sets this practice apart is their genuine care for their my daugter. They made the whole experience fun and positive, turning what could have been a stressful visit into an enjoyable one. My daughter left with a big smile on her face and is actually looking forward to her next visit!
I highly recommend Dr. Toothfairy to any parent looking for a compassionate, skilled, and friendly children's dentist. Thank you for making our dental visit a great one!
The staff were so friendly and doctor Lara was so nice and gentle with my two years old daughter. Everything went smoothly, and we also went back home with lots of presents!!
I definitely recommend this place if you want your kid to enjoy going to the dentist!
Our experience with Dr. Lara and her team at Dr, Toothfairy was absolutely outstanding! From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with warmth and professionalism that immediately put both my children and me at ease.
Dr. Lara's staff deserves special recognition for their incredible ability to make my kids feel comfortable and welcome. Their kindness and patience truly made the difference, turning what could have been a stressful visit into a pleasant one.
The office itself was a delight! It was creatively designed with vibrant colors and playful decor that instantly captured my children's attention. It created a fun atmosphere that made going to the dentist an enjoyable experience rather than a chore.
As for Dr. Lara herself, she is simply fantastic. Not only is she a skilled and honest dentist, but her genuine care for her young patients shines through in every interaction. She took the time to explain everything clearly and answered all of our questions with patience and expertise.
Overall, I cannot recommend Dr. Lara and her team highly enough. If you're looking for a pediatric dentist who truly cares about your child's well-being and provides top-notch care in a fun and welcoming environment, look no further!
Dr. Lara and her team provide exceptional care, making every visit a comfortable and positive experience for children.
Went back to doctor Lara again today and all I can say is wow. So calm , patient and sweet to my child even when things got too intense for him. She was totally cool with me being by his side for comfort and the team effort was a great success ! He left saying “ I can’t wait to see Dr. Lara again !”
Went back today with all 3 of my very young kids. Lara continued to be the sweet , kind gentle dentist in nature that she is. She broke down the children’s dental plans patiently and made me feel at ease about the future.
What sets Dr. Saleh apart is her kind way with children and strong empathy, while maintaining the utmost professional care of her patients. My daughter enjoyed going to Dr. Saleh so much that whenever we drive by her practice, she says she misses her dentist and wants to go back!
The practice is very child-oriented and makes kids feel comfortable and ensures they have a pleasant and positive experience from the second they enter.
It’s very hard to get a teenager to enjoy a doctor visit but they did it !!!!
UPDATE: We've been to Dr. Lara 3 times now, and each time I leave feeling so positive about the experience. She gives the parent very helpful information about things to pay attention to and be aware of, and helped my 2-year old be at ease.
1) knowledge - she had thorough knowledge of my son’s cavity and expertise in dealing with it
2) bedside manners - awesome interpersonal skills and communication
3) her office is state of the art and very pediatric friendly - the only dentist I know that has a video screen for each dental chair
4) great respect for her preventative guidance and respect for family’s wishes
5) very state of the art questionnaires
Then Dr Saleh immediately initiated a conversation with me which was so nice. She took the time to talk with me even though her front desk assistants were already attending to my daughter and I. All of the staff is so kind and approachable!!
I was looking for a 2nd opinion and she definitely help me become more settled with my daughter’s dental treatment. I went to one pediatric dentist and needed a 2nd opinion just to make sure my husband and I give my daughter the best and safe treatment. I am so happy that we went for a 2nd opinion!
She was so thorough and attentive to my questions and concerns. Her expertise definitely solidified our choice to pick her for my daughter’s dental treatment.
My daughter had a positive experience and she was treated very well. I would highly recommended Dr Saleh and her team to anyone looking for l pediatric dental care.
Before we left the office, my daughter was given a voucher to Scramble, which was such a wonderful treat!
Update (1/11/24)- Yesterday was our 3rd visit and the staff was splendid, kind, and just overall inviting and helpful. My son was seen for a regular cleaning and he did so well with cleaning and x-ray. The assistant was so patient with him and gave gentle instructions. My daughter had her cavities filled and she was such a trooper! Dr Lara and her team are just wonderful professionals who genuinely love their job. They display so much care and kindness in their practice and interaction.
7/24/2024
This is a new review. My son loved it and Dr Lara is amazing and always is compassion, kind, and so informative about my son’s dental health. Totally love this practice and would recommend this practice and Dr Lara is the best.
9/20/24
We came in for my daughter's appt. Dr Lara did sealant work on her teeth (4 different teeth). My daughter has had major dental work with Dr Lara and she was extremely calm and cooperative. She was distracted with the TV show up above and procedures were seamless.
For this appt, she was not happy and she was very uncomfortable with the mouth piece. She started crying and Dr Lara immediately thought of a 2nd option that calmed my daughter's nerves. I was so appreciative of Dr Lara's quick maneuver to continue with the appt and my daughter was able to listen to her and finish the appt. My family and I are so thankful for Dr Lara. She is so good at what she does!!
Highly highly recommended and can’t wait to continue our dental journey with Dr. ToothFairy! Thank you Dr. Lara 🤍
Dr. Lara and her staff were amazing and so friendly! It was very easy to make an appointment, they had a sign welcoming all the new patients and so many fun things to play with in the waiting room and the exam room. My 3 year and 1 year olds get a little nervous at the dentist and they accommodated them and made them feel happy and safe.
My 3 year old has asked every day since if we can go back to the dentist.
Friendly Staff:
First and foremost, the staff is incredibly friendly and attentive. They made my son feel at ease, which is not something I typically associate with a dental visit. She's not only highly skilled but also takes the time to explain procedures, answer questions, and ensure you're comfortable every step of the way.
Clean & High Skill Staff:
The clinic is modern and spotlessly clean, I appreciate their commitment to a safe and hygienic environment, especially in these times.
Space for Kids:
There plenty of space for kids, and some game station for they to relax.
They go above and beyond to ensure minimal discomfort and maximum results.
Easy to book and accept many insurances:
For me Ameritas Dental Care Insurance.
I can't believe we are going through next business day for the appointment.
Scheduling appointments is a breeze, and I've never had to wait long to be seen. They respect your time, which I truly appreciate.
If you're looking for a dental care provider in Falls Church, I wholeheartedly recommend Dr.Lara at DR.Toothfairy and her team. They provide excellent care in a warm and welcoming environment. I'm so grateful to have found them!
Making an appointment was very easy, all the form filling can be done online before going in which speeds everything up. Warm welcome from Ali put my daughter at ease. They have tons of kid friendly touches, fairy doors, toys, games, video games and glow in the dark room!!
Dr. Lara the dentist was fantastic. Really knowledgeable and lots of practical advice given in an easy to digest manner. X-rays are done in office and the whole cleaning/check up was very gentle. She checked how my daughter was tolerating everything lots of times, asked her if she wanted to have her top teeth or bottom teeth cleaned first etc. my kid got to watch tv during the exam also.
They accept all insurances and I really cannot say anything negative. If you're looking for a great local dentist then try this place- let me know if they start taking adult patients!!
They did not stop with the cleaning! Once he was done, he had the chance to walk and get a “prize” and take a “my first dentist appointment picture”
I would absolutely recommend for anyone looking for a dentist for their kids!
Thank you
I will not go anywhere else. Thank-you for the patience, the love you share towards children, the knowledge you share and for being YOU.
When we moved to McLean, we used to drive almost 40 minutes to see her—but now that she has her own office in Falls Church, it’s a less than 10 minute drive. Her new office is so wonderful. It even has a room especially for babies and infants. Congratulations Dr Lara, we are thrilled to be your patients!
Most importantly, she is the most capable dental professional I have come across in my life--which is what I value most for my kids. She takes the time to explain everything to us in detail and makes the experience fun for our family. We are delighted that she has her own office now in Falls Church, and to be able to count on her to keep our kids healthy and smiling.