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All Kids PediatricDentistry
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980-577-6020
Locations & Opening Hours
VISIT US
2630 W Arrowood Rd STE C, Charlotte,
NC 28273
NC 28273
Monday
8 AM - 5 PM
Tuesday
8 AM - 5 PM
Wednesday
8 AM - 5 PM
Thursday
8 AM - 5 PM
Friday
8 AM - 5 PM
Saturday
Closed
Sunday
Closed
980-577-6020
Our Services
Dental Exams
Teeth Cleanings
Preventive Care
Braces
Fillings
Extractions
Crowns
Root Canal
Periodontal Treatments
Fluoride Treatment
Sealants
Orthodontics
Teeth Whitening
Cosmetic Dentistry
Bonding
Oral Cancer Screening
Emergency Care
Mouthguards
Night Guards
Restorative Dentistry
Invisalign
Traumatic Dental Injuries
Sedation
Pediatric Dentistry
Meet The Doctors
Brush Up on Our Dentist's Expertise
Dr. Marcela Mujica DMD, MSD
I am honored to be a pediatric dentist.
It is important to offer children a specialized “for me” tailored approach to dental care. There are many reasons why this is crucial, beyond the behavioral approach: for me, it’s about making kids smile while also finding and addressing problems before they manifest into worse issues.
It is important to address a patient’s clinical needs and their emotional wellbeing. By making those the top priorities, I make visits more comfortable, decreasing a child’s anxiety and building trust. In this, I am able to turn even the most apprehensive child into a fan of visiting the dentist!
Oral healthcare is the foundation of overall physical and emotional health. I want to set our patients up for success in life and I want to see them smile for a long time!
~ Dr. Marcela Mujica
Education and Experience
It is important to offer children a specialized “for me” tailored approach to dental care. There are many reasons why this is crucial, beyond the behavioral approach: for me, it’s about making kids smile while also finding and addressing problems before they manifest into worse issues.
It is important to address a patient’s clinical needs and their emotional wellbeing. By making those the top priorities, I make visits more comfortable, decreasing a child’s anxiety and building trust. In this, I am able to turn even the most apprehensive child into a fan of visiting the dentist!
Oral healthcare is the foundation of overall physical and emotional health. I want to set our patients up for success in life and I want to see them smile for a long time!
~ Dr. Marcela Mujica
Education and Experience
- Doctorate of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine
- Master of Science degree in Dentistry, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry
- Certificate of Pediatric Dentistry, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry, Department of Pediatric Dentistry
- Board Certification, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
Dr. Mujica has worked in various dental roles, offices, and locations around the world. She truly enjoys working with children and was proud to open the doors of All Kids Pediatric Dentistry in 2014.
Continuing Education and Professional Affiliations
Through active pursuit of continuing education, Dr. Mujica continues to sharpen her skills and stay at the forefront of advancements in pediatric dentistry.
In addition to being a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, she is a member of the:
- American Dental Association
- Southeastern Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
- North Carolina Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
- North Carolina Dental Society
These organizations offer a wide range of advanced educational opportunities, including meetings, lectures, and seminars. They also provide numerous publications and journals addressing the latest research, newest technologies, and changes in treatment protocols.
Helping Others
Dr. Mujica recently returned from a dental mission trip with Heart for Africa’s Project Canaan, where she treated over 260 orphans. Closer to home, she has also participated in rural outreach dentistry in Virginia, caring for underserved individuals.
Beyond the Practice
Originally from Peru, Dr. Mujica has resided in Charlotte, North Carolina, since 2003, but for her time in dental school and her residency.
When Dr. Mujica’s not in the office, she’s most often found with her husband Ethan, their daughter, Charlotte, and their extended family. She enjoys diverse food, travel, and culture, and is always happy to share stories of her adventures and early life in Peru.
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Dr. Michelle DaRocha DMD
I’m a native of Boston, Massachusetts and was raised in a Portuguese and Brasilian household. I attended Merrimack College, where I majored in Biology and minored in Spanish. I then earned a doctorate in dental medicine from Boston University, where I participated in externships abroad in Nicaragua and China, providing dental care to patients in underserved areas.
After graduating from dental school, I practiced general dentistry in Lawrence, Massachusetts as a Delta Dental Scholar. I then pursued higher education through NYU Langone Dental Medicine’s program at Rady Children’s Hospital in San Diego, California, where I specialized in Pediatric Dentistry.
I truly enjoy taking care of patients and helping them establish a dental home. I also fluently speak English, Portuguese, and Spanish.
~ Dr. Michelle DaRocha
Education and Experience
After graduating from dental school, I practiced general dentistry in Lawrence, Massachusetts as a Delta Dental Scholar. I then pursued higher education through NYU Langone Dental Medicine’s program at Rady Children’s Hospital in San Diego, California, where I specialized in Pediatric Dentistry.
I truly enjoy taking care of patients and helping them establish a dental home. I also fluently speak English, Portuguese, and Spanish.
~ Dr. Michelle DaRocha
Education and Experience
- Certificate of Pediatric Dentistry – New York University Langone Dental Medicine at Rady Children’s Hospital, San Diego, California
- Doctor of Medcine in Dentistry – Boston University
- Bachelor of Science in Biology – Merrimack College
- Completed research paper on pediatric obstructive sleep apnea
Professional Affiliations
- American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
- American Dental Association
- Texas Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
Beyond the Practice
Outside of the office, you can find Dr. DaRocha staying active through yoga, running and spin. She enjoys traveling with her husband, especially to Brazil or Portugal, where she has family, as well as learning about different cultures, listening to music, and spending time with her grandmother back in Boston.
Don't Just Take Our Word For It
Our patient testimonials speak volumes about the experiences families have at AKA Smiles. We’re proud of the trust our community has placed in us and work hard every day to earn that trust through exceptional care and service.
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We Accept Insurance & Sunbit↗
Coverage to Smile About
Our office staff is always available to help you with insurance claims and paperwork. We’ll work with your insurance provider to make sure that your coverage meets your family’s needs and budget. Our office is in-network with most PPO dental insurance plans and NC Medicaid.
+ Others
How we serve you better
Where Science Meets Smiles
Ultrasonic Scalers
Allow dentists to remove plaque and calculus (tartar) more efficiently and comfortably than manual scaling, resulting in faster and more effective dental cleanings.
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Digital X-Rays
Digital radiography reduces radiation exposure and provides high-quality images for better diagnosis.
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Intraoral Camera
Capture detailed images inside a patient's mouth, helping them better diagnose issues, document conditions, and educate patients.
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TV on Dental Chairs
Provide entertainment and distraction for patients during dental procedures, helping to reduce anxiety and make the experience more comfortable.
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Handheld X-ray unit
Portable device used in dental offices to capture diagnostic radiographic images of patients' teeth and surrounding structures.
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Panoramic X-rays
A comprehensive, 360-degree view of the entire mouth, teeth, jaw, and surrounding structures in a single image, enabling better diagnosis for various dental conditions.
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Nitrous Sedation
Helps anxious or fearful patients feel relaxed and comfortable during dental procedures, making it easier for both the patient and dentist to complete necessary treatments.
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HEPA Air Purifiers
Capture airborne particles, including aerosols, bacteria, and viruses produced during dental procedures, helping to protect both staff and patients from potential infections.
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Prophy-Jet Polishers
Uses pressurized water and sodium bicarbonate to effectively remove stains, plaque, and debris from teeth while being gentler than traditional polishing methods.
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Intraoral Scanner
Create precise 3D digital impressions of patients' teeth without using messy putty materials, leading to more accurate restorations.
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Soft Tissue Laser
Enables more precise, less invasive procedures with reduced bleeding, faster healing times, and often less need for anesthesia compared to traditional dental tools.
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Zoom Whitening
Offer patients a fast, professional-grade teeth whitening treatment that can brighten teeth by several shades in just one office visit.
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Cephalometric X-rays
Analyze facial growth, airway problems, and jaw relationships to better plan treatments like braces or jaw surgery.
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Noise-Canceling Headphones
Help reduce patient anxiety and discomfort by blocking out the unsettling sounds of dental procedures, such as drilling and suction.
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Digital Smile Design Software
Helps dentists virtually plan and visualize cosmetic dental treatments by manipulating digital images of patients' teeth to create predictable aesthetic outcomes.
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Air Abrasion
Minimally invasive dental technique that uses a stream of fine particles propelled by compressed air to remove decay and prepare teeth for restorations.
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Single Tooth Anesthesia (STA) System
Deliver precise, computer-controlled local anesthesia to individual teeth with less pain and anxiety for patients compared to traditional injections.
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Dental Loupes
Provide dentists with enhanced magnification and precise visualization during complex procedures, leading to improved accuracy and better patient outcomes.
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Computerized Pain-Free Injection System
Delivers local anesthetic at a precisely controlled flow rate to minimize discomfort during dental procedures.
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Icon Procedure
A minimally invasive dental treatment that uses resin infiltration to treat early cavities and white spot lesions without drilling.
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Autoclave Sterilization
Uses high-pressure steam to kill harmful bacteria, viruses, and spores on dental instruments, ensuring patient safety and preventing cross-contamination between procedures.
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Gallery
serving smiles
Testimonials
OUR CROWING ACHEIVEMENTS
100+ reviews
"We LOVE AKPD! They are kind and gentle with my kiddos, especially Dr. Parker and Dr. Cooper. The ladies at the front desk are always kind and friendly. We drive all the way from York to Charlotte because they are that awesome!"
Swords O.
"The staff was great. The way they explained the process to my child was greatly appreciated. It put my child at ease. They were gentle, understanding and kind. Thank you AKPD"
Charlotte M.
"The staff was very nice, they explained everything to me as a process was going on. My daughter was very comfortable she did not fuss or come off like she was in pain or uncomfortable at all. Great service overall."
Amber W.
"Friendly and professional staff. The tech that cleaned my daughter's teeth was the best! The dentist was friendly and very knowledgeable and you can tell they all enjoy the work that they do. Thank you all!"
Trina P.
"Wonderful staff, timely appointments. Very pleasant experience. Movie playing in the lobby would be nice. Maybe toys that attach to the walls (spinners, gadgets, locks, buckles, etc.) would be a great addition to the lobby for younger kids."
Kori T.
"They’re very professional regardless. My son bit his dentist finger… 🫣 I felt worst than she did.. she kept it very demure , very cutesy. Very modest.. she said ain’t no big deal that’s what comes with job as pediatric dentist… 💖💖"
Pamela T.
Blog
Tooth be told
FAQ
Questions
At what age should my child first visit the dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children should have their first dental visit by their first birthday or within 6 months after their first tooth appears, whichever comes first.
How often should my child have dental checkups?
Children should visit the dentist every 6 months for regular checkups and cleanings. However, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits based on your child's individual oral health needs.
Are dental X-rays safe for children?
Yes, dental X-rays are safe for children. Modern dental offices use digital X-rays that emit very low radiation levels. Additionally, protective lead aprons and thyroid collars are used during X-rays to minimize exposure. X-rays are only taken when necessary for diagnostic purposes.
How can I prevent cavities in my child's teeth?
To prevent cavities: 1) Maintain good oral hygiene, brushing twice daily and flossing, 2) limit sugary foods and drinks, 3) use fluoride toothpaste, 4) consider dental sealants, 5) maintain regular dental checkups, 6) encourage healthy eating habits, and 7) supervise brushing for young children.
At what age should my child get an orthodontic evaluation?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, there's a mix of baby and permanent teeth, allowing orthodontists to identify potential problems early.
Is Invisalign suitable for children/teens?
Invisalign can be suitable for teens, and there's even a specific product called Invisalign Teen. However, eligibility depends on various factors, including: 1) the type and severity of orthodontic issues, 2) the patient's maturity and responsibility level, 3) whether all permanent teeth have erupted, and 4) your orthodontist can determine if Invisalign is appropriate for your child's specific case.
Do braces hurt?
While braces don't hurt during application, you may experience some soreness for a few days after getting them and after adjustment appointments. This discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
