We are so proud to present our first ever South OC Meet A Dad feature. Please meet local Super Dad Dr. Alzayat of Willow Pediatric Dentistry in Rancho Santa Margarita. It is never easy starting a new business. let alone during a global pandemic. But Dr. Alzayat was up for the challenge and can’t wait to help you all with your child’s pediatric dental needs. Get to know all about Dr. Alzayat and his one tip for Moms to ensure a successful dental visit.
Let’s start with where are you originally from and how long have you lived in South OC?
I’m originally from Egypt. My parents moved me and my brother to Los Angeles when I was 13 years old. We’ve lived in Southern California ever since. I’ve been living in South OC for about a year and a half and I’m loving it!
What made you decide to raise your family in South OC?
I really enjoy living in a family-oriented community like South OC. I have many of my close friends and family nearby. Also, there are so many spectacular outdoor spaces around here that my four-year-old and I enjoy. I wanted to open my practice where I saw myself raising my family. It is very important to me to be part of the community where I work and live in.
What made you want to start your own Pediatric Dental Practice?
At Willow Pediatric Dentistry, we absolutely cater our practice to children of all ages and children with special needs. We focus on providing an enjoyable experience to both children and parents. I’ve designed the practice with that in mind. One of the many examples is that we did away with the traditional dental chair, which can be a great source of anxiety for kids, but also for parents. Instead, we have well-designed dental benches that are very comfortable and less intimidating. It allows our patients to lay back comfortably, watch TV and enjoy their dental experience. We also designed our parent lounge with comfortable seating, refreshments and interactive games.
What makes Willow Pediatric Dental different than other pediatric practices in the area?
Another thing that sets us apart is our commitment to giving back to our community. We feel very passionate about our relationship with the Jessie Rees Foundation. For every new patient, we are making a donation back to the foundation. We also want to empower our young patients to be charitable by giving them the opportunity to donate items for Joy Jars.
Running a business takes a ton of work, what does a typical weekday look like for you?
My typical day starts with coffee, getting my son dressed, and enjoying breakfast together before heading out to the office. My day at Willow always starts with a morning team huddle to go over the day’s patients. I get excited when patients start to arrive because I get to interact with them and their parents. After an enjoyable day of rooting for healthy smiles, I thank my team for all their hard work and head home for my other favorite job. As a single dad, I know the importance of family time. After I get home, I go outside with my son to enjoy the beautiful weather South OC surrounds us with. We play hard for a few hours, have dinner, brush our teeth, and kiss each other good night.
What advice do you have for new moms when it comes to infant dental care?
New moms have a lot on their plates, and because of that, I usually tell them to keep it simple. As you get comfortable with your daily routine, start adding oral care to it. Simply wiping down your babies’ gums is perfectly fine for the first year, or until they get their first tooth. That is when we recommend bring your child in for their first dental checkup.
What would be the one tip you would give us Moms to help us prepare our children for dental visits?
My one tip for moms would be to reassure your child that they’ll have a positive visit. If they can feel your anxiety, they will also have that same feeling. Getting your teeth checked should be a fun experience!
Is there anything that surprised you about becoming a Dad?
Being a dad is amazing, but the one thing that amazed me the most is how often I tear up at commercials or random things my son says. My heart is always full.
Did you get any advice from our father that you would like to share?
My father is my hero! He brought his family to the U.S. to seek a better life. He started from the bottom and never gave up on his dreams. He taught me hard work and also taught me to always make time for family.
What are your favorite things to do with your son in town?
My favorite thing to do with Ramses, is to go to the Spectrum and get smoothies, walk around, and look for matching sneakers!
Where can Mom’s in South OC find Willow Pediatric Dentistry and what is that amazing First Visit special you have?
Moms in South OC can find Willow Pediatric Dentistry at 22032 El Paseo, Suite 215 Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688. We’re just behind BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse on Santa Margarita Parkway. We offer free, friendly visits to come see our practice, and free exams for children 3 and under. See you soon!
