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Why Choose Little Giants Pediatric Dentistry?
At Little Giants Pediatric Dentistry, we have a progressive culture that places emphasis on our core values. Our mission is to give the next generation of adults optimal oral health by providing comfortable care with compassion, professionalism and clinical excellence. We’re known for our smiles, singing and warm environment. We take the time to ensure that parents have an understanding of treatment options and recommendations by explaining every step involved. Our practice is centered around preventive care, and giving families the tools needed to achieve optimal oral health.
Dr. Stephie Castera was born in Haiti and moved to Miami, FL at 11 years old. She grew up fearful of the dentist, but those worries melted away after an amazing experience at a dentist in Miami. She remembers seeing toys everywhere, the staff was friendly and there was no pain! At the end of that appointment she looked at her mom and said, “I want to be a dentist so I can teach kids that they don’t have to be scared.” And the rest is history!
Her decision to pursue the craft of dentistry was solidified even more when she had a loved one pass due to a tooth abscess during her undergraduate studies at the University of Florida. She knew from that point that her mission had grown to spread awareness about the importance of oral health to children and families in her community.
After graduating from the University of Florida with a degree in Food Sciences and Human Nutrition, and a minor in International Development and Humanitarian Assistance, she obtained a Masters in Biomedical Sciences from Barry University. She completed her DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine) at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, followed by a residency in pediatric dentistry at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital. When she’s not practicing, Dr. Stephie Castera enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, being outdoors, exercising, reading, and soaking in the vibrant Miami community.
Dr. Valiente was born in Cartagena, Colombia, and moved to South Florida at a young age. From an early age, she knew she wanted to pursue a career in healthcare and make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families. Her passion for pediatric dentistry grew through caring for young patients and helping them overcome dental fear with kindness, patience, and compassion. Today, she combines extensive experience with a gentle, patient-centered approach to help every child feel safe, comfortable, and confident while building a foundation for lifelong oral health.
Dr. Valiente earned her Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from Florida International University before receiving her Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from Nova Southeastern University. After practicing as a general dentist for two years, she returned to Nova Southeastern University to complete her specialty training in pediatric dentistry. During her residency, she cared for children with extensive dental needs and received advanced training in behavior guidance. She especially enjoys treating children with special healthcare needs and strives to create a welcoming, positive experience for every child and family she meets.
Outside the office, Dr. Valiente enjoys spending time with family and friends, listening to music, traveling, and spending time with her beloved dogs.
In our office, the team feels more like family than co-workers. We enjoy what we do, and come to work everyday knowing we get to have fun and spend time with the most important people, children! Many of us are parents ourselves and want to extend the same care to your children that we would expect for our own. We can’t wait to get to know you!
Dr. Stephie Castera has an affinity for the Danish concept of Hygge: a quality of coziness and comfortability that produces feelings of contentment and well-being. The hygge concept set the tone when designing the office. Our warm, inviting decor is whimsical and welcoming to grown-ups and children alike.
The reception area includes TVs with Disney+, a beverage station, and a play area. At the end of the procedure, they get a toy from our toy tower! In our treatment rooms, we have TVs overhead (no shame in a distraction!) and weighted blankets if your child is feeling a little worried or chilly! For those brave little ones needing a procedure that includes local anesthesia, we have a sweet treat in the form of a popsicle when all is said and done!
Dr. Stephie is motivated to make pediatric dental care seamless, and that includes investing in the future of dentistry. For X-rays, we use digital sensors in order to capture high-definition images. Our office also uses intraoral cameras to capture videos and imaging of your child’s mouth in order to make accurate treatment recommendations.
