Get to Know Us
Our Approach
Care Through Connection
At Toothlings, we understand that when it comes to caring for children, everything starts with connection. That's why ease and comfort for families is at the heart of everything we do. By taking the time to get to know our patients, and going at their pace, we aim to make every visit an easy, bright, and happy one.
Melissa Grant, DDS
Dr. Grant is a board-certified pediatric dentist, born and raised right here in the South Bay. She completed both her dental and pediatric specialty degrees at the UCLA School of Dentistry, graduating summa cum laude as the top student in her class. She received multiple awards and scholarships for her academic achievement and clinical accomplishments, including the prestigious UC Regents Scholarship, Pierre Fauchard Award, and induction into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon Dental Society. After several years serving the children of greater Los Angeles out of the Cedars-Sinai Medical Towers, she is thrilled to now be practicing in her hometown of Manhattan Beach, spreading sunshine and smiles to her local community.
With additional training in behavioral therapy techniques, Dr. Grant specializes in the treatment of anxious and neurodivergent children, as well as those with special healthcare needs. She is a member of the Craniofacial Team at St. John's Hospital, where she treats patients with cleft lip and palate as well as other complex dental needs. As a mom herself, she always approaches caring for her patients through the lens of a parent first and foremost. Her practice is focused on prevention, minimal intervention, and family-centered care.
When she’s not in the office seeing patients, Dr. Grant is usually busy chasing after her energetic son! You can catch her most weekends strolling the Greenbelt or enjoying the Strand with her family. And even though she grew up by the beach, the forest is her happy place. She and her husband love hiking, camping, and have managed to adventure their way through many of the country’s National Parks.
“I created Toothlings to be more than just a dental office for kids. It’s a safe haven where children look forward to their visits, and families feel welcomed, nurtured, and heard. Every inch of this practice has been carefully crafted to make a child’s experience positive and fun. My goal is to bring not only the highest caliber of care to my patients, but infuse the playful spirit of childhood into everything we do, building positive associations about the dentist for kids to carry with them beyond their childhood years."
Dental School: UCLA School of Dentistry
Pediatric Residency: UCLA School of Dentistry
Board-Certification: American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
Craniofacial Team Member at Providence Saint John's Hospital
Southern California Society of Dentistry For Children - (Former President)
American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
California Society of Pediatric Dentistry
American Dental association
California Dental Association
West Los Angeles Dental Society
College of Diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
American Laser Study Club
South Bay Native
Coffee Aficionado
Favorite Show: Top Chef
Known to cook excessive amounts of food for family and friends
Has never lost a game of Scrabble
Happy Smiles are an Appointment Away!
Comfort for Every Child
We've designed our office with every child's comfort and enjoyment in mind. With private areas various accommodations available, we make sure every family has what they need for a smooth visit.
Private Rooms
Each family gets a private room to ensure confidentiality and allow us to focus exclusively on your child.
Sensory Room
Our sensory room provides a calming and safe space for children who may need less stimulation during their visit.
Infant Room
New moms and their little ones will love our nursery-like infant room, designed specifically for our youngest patients.
Kids & Parents Love Us!
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