Meet Dr. arpita Patel
Board Certified Pediatric Dentist in Charlotte, NC
"Can’t stop raving about Dr. Arpita”
I can’t stop raving about Dr. Arpita and her amazing staff and office! My son previously had a bad experience at his prior dentist and was super nervous, but he has now told everyone that will listen about how cool his new dentist is. At the end they said ‘welcome to the family’ and I wanted to cry honestly, because they don’t even know how much their care and ‘family’ meant to me knowing we have this place to look forward to bringing my son.
Amanda U.
Learn More About Dr. Arpita
A note from Dr. Arpita
Dear Families,
Since I can remember, whenever someone asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, my answer was always simple: I want to help people. I didn’t always know how I’d do that, but that core desire never changed.
I never saw myself in healthcare. But I moved forward with faith, finished dental school, and moved to West Virginia and worked as a general dentist. My first job involved pediatric care, and I loved it.
My mentor and boss recognized something in me and encouraged me to specialize in pediatrics. He told me I had a gift. It was also in that practice that I discovered laser dentistry. The results were transformative, especially for children. I knew immediately this would be central to my own future practice.
I moved to Charlotte, again on a leap of faith, started as an associate, learned a lot, and eventually opened my own practice. One of the first things I invested in was a laser. Every child who was a candidate received laser treatment. The response was overwhelming - parents were relieved, and children weren’t afraid. Many didn’t even feel pain.
But I started noticing deeper issues: kids with recurring cavities, sleep disturbances, and mouth breathing. I began exploring airway health, trying to understand what was at the root of these patterns. I took courses, online and across the country, to become the best provider I could be.
Then came a profound realization: I had a tongue tie myself. All the signs I’d seen in my patients - I had lived them too. From difficulty breastfeeding to sleep issues, teeth grinding, chronic tightness - it all made sense. I underwent a release procedure and saw significant improvements in my own health. That personal transformation deepened my commitment. I made a promise to myself to offer this healing to others, from infants to adults.
Today, my work is built on that foundation. I believe optimal oral and airway health is not something one provider can achieve alone - it takes a team. Over the years, I’ve built strong relationships with myofunctional therapists, ENTs, orthodontists, chiropractors, speech pathologists, and others.
My goal is for every patient and family who walks into my practice to feel seen, heard, and cared for. I want you to know that even if I don’t have the answer today, I will help find it. We’ll walk the journey together - toward not just better teeth, but better breathing, better sleep, and a better life.
Born to serve,
Dr. Arpita
Professional Highlights
- Bachelor’s in Sociology and Social Work (Emory University)
- Doctor of Dental Medicine (Boston University)
- Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
- Member of the American Laser Study Club
- Routine contributing provider on Charlotte's only accredited Cleft Lip and Palate - Craniofacial Team
- Specialized in pediatric dentistry and special health care needs in New York City
- Preferred Provider with Charlotte's ThinkCrunchy group
Personal Highlights
- Only child to two of the best people in this galaxy!
- Wife to an amazingly supportive husband
- Two beloved children: Ishani (5) and Raj (3) who keep me on my toes!
- Enjoy traveling and discovering local gems (food, talent, glamsquad, things to do) to support my community
- Born in California, raised in Aiken, SC and Augusta, GA
Meet the Team
Hi there! I'm Mikki!
Director of Operations
With over a decade of experience in dentistry, much of it spent in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with patients and families in both clinical and surgical settings. Some of my most meaningful professional experiences came from my work with cleft lip, cleft palate, and craniofacial patients - work that deepened my passion for patient care and made me a true believer in the power of multidisciplinary teamwork in a healthcare environment. Today, in my administrative role at Blooming Smiles, my focus has shifted from direct patient care to helping our practice grow and thrive as one of Charlotte’s premier pediatric dental offices. I’m passionate about creating systems and experiences that help our team succeed and ensure every family receives the high-quality care and personal attention that Blooming Smiles is known for. I believe communication is at the heart of every great relationship - especially in healthcare. Communication is central to everything I do - it’s how trust is built, relationships are strengthened, and excellence is sustained. I strive to communicate clearly, educate families on their options, and ensure that each family feels informed, supported, comfortable, and confident in their care. Outside the office, you’ll usually find me gathered around a table with friends and loved ones, enjoying a great meal. I love to cook and host as much as I love discovering new restaurants. I’m also an avid traveler, concertgoer, and sports fan - always looking for new experiences and opportunities to make memories. My coworkers often joke that I’m their real-life “ChatGPT,” thanks to my random but surprisingly useful breadth of knowledge. My favorite local spots are anywhere I’m surrounded by good people, great conversation, and even better food and drinks.
Mikki
Director of Operations
Hi - I'm Ale!
Director of Patient Relations & Hospital Coordination
At Blooming Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, I wear many hats - Hospital Coordinator, Front Desk Administrator, and occasionally, professional cheerleader for our tiny tooth stars! I like to call my role a spin wheel because there’s always something new to jump into. After eight years in dentistry, I’ve learned that no two days (or smiles!) are ever the same. My journey started in customer service, but once I stepped into pediatric dentistry, I knew I was home. Growing up, I was shy about my own smile - now I get to help kids feel proud of theirs, and that’s the best feeling ever. From the moment you walk in, my goal is to make our office feel like home away from home - warm hellos, big smiles, and maybe even a little dance behind the desk! What I love most about my job is getting to know our patients and their families - each one brings something special to our Blooming Smiles family. When I’m not spinning plates at work, I’m probably spinning my way into a new hobby - pilates, yoga, or a fun run club (bonus points if it ends with brunch). I’m also a certified DIY queen - need a balloon garland or party treats? I’m on it, TikTok tutorial and all! My happy place in Charlotte is Front Porch Sundays, iced coffee in one hand and my pup Oso’s leash in the other, exploring all the local gems.
Ale
Director of Patient Relations & Hospital Coordination
Hello! I'm Cristal!
Insurance Verification & Authorization Coordinator
I was born and raised in Charlotte, NC, and I’m one of the rare native Charlotteans in a city full of transplants! I’ve been part of the dental world for about five years as a Front Desk Administrator. I love being the first friendly face our patients see and making families feel welcomed, cared for, and confident about their smiles - all while continuing to learn more about the dental field. I enjoy helping people feel comfortable, answering their questions and concerns, and sharing a little kindness throughout their visit. When I’m not welcoming patients, you’ll probably find me out at a girls’ dinner night, planning my next trip, or sipping on a matcha.
Cristal
Insurance Verification & Authorization Coordinator
Hi - I'm Ce!
Financial & Billing Coordinator
I’ve been in the dental world for seven years and first started my journey after graduating as a DA II back in 2018. Helping others is what lights me up, and I love knowing that what I do every day helps people feel healthier and more confident about their smiles. When patients feel a little nervous, I’m right there to remind them there’s nothing to be embarrassed or worried about - I’ve got their back and I’m always here to help. When I’m not busy making the office run like a well-oiled machine, you can find me spending time with my six-year-old daughter and soaking up moments with my loved ones. One of my dreams is to live off the grid one day because I’m all about that nature-loving, outdoorsy life.
Ce
Financial & Billing Coordinator
Hi - I'm Flo!
Dental Assistant
With three years of experience in dentistry, I bring a gentle touch and a big heart to every visit. I’m passionate about helping children feel comfortable and confident in the dental chair - turning what can sometimes be a scary experience into something fun and full of smiles. I love connecting with each child, taking the time to reassure them and make their visit playful and positive from start to finish. My goal is always to help kids leave the office feeling proud, brave, and excited to come back. When I’m not making patients smile, I enjoy traveling, hiking, spending time in nature, working out, reading, and relaxing with my husband and our cat. I also have a fun tradition of collecting hats from every place I visit. A true foodie at heart, I’m always on the lookout for new restaurants to try - my current favorites are Yunta and Steak 48. Whether I’m exploring a new city or cheering on a patient’s bravery, I love bringing warmth, encouragement, and joy wherever I go.
Flo
Dental Assistant
Hi - I'm Tahmaya!
Dental Assistant
With six years of experience in the dental field, I have a gift for helping every child feel safe, seen, and supported - even the little ones who aren’t quite sure they want to be here at first. My bright smile and calm, caring energy help patients and parents feel instantly at ease. Inspired by a passion for making dentistry fun and fear-free, I love creating positive experiences that help kids build lifelong confidence in their dental care. I feel grateful to work alongside such a dedicated team - especially Dr. Arpita, whose positivity and leadership I deeply admire. Originally from North Carolina, I spent several years in Florida before returning home, where I’m proud to give back to the community that helped shape me. When I’m not in the office, you’ll find me spending time with my two boys, exploring new restaurants, fitting in a great workout, or cheering at local sporting events. I love getting involved in family-friendly community activities and making meaningful memories with those around me.
Tahmaya
Dental Assistant
We can’t wait to meet you & your littles!
Give us a call at 704.750.0195 or request an appointment online to set up your first visit. We will hold your hand through the process and help you navigate the next steps so you feel prepared!
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