About San Diego Dental Specialists
Specialized training and decades of experience helping children grow healthy smiles
Pediatric & Adult Dentistry:
(858) 676-5000
Orthodontics:
(858) 676-5010
Why a Pediatric Specialist matters
For over 40 years, families across North County San Diego have trusted our team not simply because of how long we’ve been here, but because of who we are. As board-certified pediatric dental specialists, we focus exclusively on the oral health, development, and emotional comfort of children.
Pediatric dentists complete 2–3 additional years of advanced specialty training beyond dental school, focused on child psychology, growth and development, behavior guidance, and managing complex pediatric cases. This specialized education allows us to monitor developing smiles, identify issues early, and tailor care to each of their unique needs, while serving as a child’s dental home: a trusted place for consistent care beginning as early as age one.
Our goal is to create a positive dental foundation that lasts a lifetime, helping children feel safe, confident, and empowered in the dental chair.
Meet our pediatric dentists
Dr. Amodeo
Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Michael Amodeo is passionate about helping children in Rancho Bernardo achieve excellent oral health. With a focus on education and creating a fun, welcoming environment, he treats every child as if they were his own.
Hobbies & Interests
Dr. Amodeo and his wife, Rachela, are thrilled to raise their three young boys in their hometown of Rancho Bernardo. In his free time, Dr. Amodeo enjoys:
- Cooking (ask about his prize-winning lasagna!)
- Exploring the outdoors
- Spending time with his family
Education
- High school education at Poway High School
- Bachelor of Science in Biology from UCSB
- Doctorate and pediatric dentistry residency from UCLA
- Chief Resident and member of the Craniofacial Anomalies and Cleft Palate Team at UCLA
- Diplomate of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
- Active memberships with the ADA and CDA
Dr. Lam
Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Christy Lam is a San Diego pediatric dentist dedicated to instilling a passion for oral health in children. Her gentle approach helps kids understand and value their dental care, building a strong foundation for overall well-being.
Hobbies & Interests
Dr. Lam is passionate about dentistry both at work and at home. She’s married to Dr. Albert Lin, a local Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon. They have two children who are their pride and joy. When she’s not busy with her family, Dr. Lam loves to cook and plan exciting travel adventures.
Education
- High school education in Los Angeles after immigrating from Saigon.
- Undergraduate degrees in Biology and Finance from USC.
- Doctorate in Dentistry from Northwestern University Dental School in Chicago.
- Pediatric Dentistry specialty certificate from USC and Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles.
- Externship experience helping children of migrant workers in Boulder, Colorado.
- Diplomate of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
- Active memberships with the ADA, CDA, and American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
Dr. Good
Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Lori Good is dedicated to providing compassionate care for children, including those with special needs. As part of Rady’s Children’s Hospital, she coordinates treatment for patients with craniofacial anomalies and syndromes, ensuring every child feels safe and cared for.
Hobbies & Interests
Dr. Good, married to Dr. Thurston, enjoys volunteering in the community and serves as chair of her synagogue’s Social Action Committee. Her personal interests include
- Reading
- Cycling
- Jogging
Education
- Bachelor of Science in Biology from UCSD
- Doctorate in Dentistry from UCSF
- Pediatric Dentistry specialty and master’s degree in Craniofacial Biology from USC
- Early career as a general dentist at the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians’ reservation
- Active memberships with the ADA, CDA, and American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
Dr. Dixon
Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Gordon Dixon, a founding member of San Diego Dental Specialists, has been dedicated to serving the community for over 40 years. His mission is to provide exceptional care for patients of all ages and help families feel confident they’ve found their lifelong dental home.
Hobbies & Interests
Dr. Dixon enjoys spending quality time with his wife, Cathie, their seven children, and five grandchildren. His hobbies include:
- Gardening
- Playing baseball
- Exploring Indian culture and cuisine, a passion developed during his time in India
Education
- Undergraduate degree from UCLA on a football scholarship
- Two years in the Peace Corps teaching physical and biological sciences in India
- Doctorate in Dentistry and a three-year residency in Medical Genetics and Pediatric Dentistry from UCLA-Harbor General Hospital
- Graduate of the Straight Wire Orthodontic Program and UCLA’s Esthetic Dentistry mini-residency
- Maintains relationships with Rady Children’s Hospital and UCSD’s cleft palate and trauma teams
Meet Our Orthodontists
Dr. Thurston
Orthodontist
Dr. Martin Thurston’s orthodontic career focuses on correcting bite issues to achieve optimal oral health. His understanding of nutrition, fitness, and joint mechanics informs his approach to aligning teeth and jaws, resulting in healthy, functional, and beautiful smiles for his patients.
When Dr. Thurston isn’t creating healthy, beautiful smiles, he’s spending quality time with his wife, Dr. Lori Good, and their two daughters. His other passions include:
- Gardening
- Swimming
- Biking
- Running
- Playing the piano
Education
- Undergraduate degree from UCSD.
- Doctorate from UCSF.
- Orthodontic residency and master’s from UCLA in 1985.
- Active memberships with the ADA, CDA, American Association of Orthodontics, the Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontics, and the San Diego Academy of Orthodontics
Dr. Fischer
Orthodontist
Dr. Brittany Fischer is passionate about creating healthy, beautiful smiles for children and adults. With a focus on patient education and individualized care, she works to ensure every patient understands how to maintain their smile for years to come.
Hobbies & Interests
Originally from Grand Haven, Michigan, Dr. Fischer now enjoys life in San Diego with her husband and two children. In her free time, she loves:
- Running on the beach with her dog
- Skiing
- Playing golf, soccer, and volleyball
Education
- Doctorate in Dentistry from UCLA, graduating cum laude
- Orthodontics training and master’s degree from the University of Michigan
- Specialty expertise in treating patients with craniofacial anomalies and surgical needs
- Practicing orthodontics in San Diego since 2016
Dr. Randall
Orthodontist
Dr. Randall earned her dental degree from the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry in June 2020, where she was recognized with numerous awards for both academic excellence and leadership. She went on to complete her Master of Science degree and orthodontic residency at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine. Her training included extensive experience in complex orthodontic cases, surgical orthodontics, TMJ disorders, and clear aligner treatment. Since completing her residency, Dr. Randall has been practicing in private practice in Denver, Colorado.
A Southern California native, Dr. Randall was raised in San Clemente and is excited to return to the area with her husband—who is also a dentist! In her free time, she enjoys going for walks with her husband and their dog, hiking, beach days, visiting local farmers markets, and catching the latest sci-fi films.
Why Families Trust Us
Expert, Trusted Care
Board-certified dental specialists, each with 25+ years of experience to ensure exceptional, and consistent treatment.
Kid-Friendly Visits
Nitrous oxide, ceiling TVs, and caring staff make every visit stress-free.
Comprehensive Sedation Options
Oral sedation, IV sedation, and general anesthesia are tailored for your comfort.
Community-Focused Approach
Dental education programs and school outreach show our commitment to your family's health.
I’ve brought my kids here for years, but this was my first time as a patient myself. I’m so happy I switched! The staff is friendly, warm, and incredibly knowledgeable.
— M. Puplava
We are so happy with our dental care here. It’s wonderful to find a place that accepts and understands all types of children. My son even told me he prefers San Diego Dental Specialists over his previous dentist! We’ll be back, and we definitely recommend them.
— N. Graber
My son with special needs is challenging to take to the dentist. The San Diego Dental Specialist has treated him kindly and skillfully for years. We’re grateful for their expertise and will continue using their services. The arcade games motivate my son to go to their office.
— A.J.
Visit Our Office
We strive to make your visit as comfortable as possible. Enjoy amenities like:
- Personalized entertainment: Individual music and TV/DVD viewing during your appointment.
- Free Wi-Fi: Stay connected while you wait.
11616 Iberia Place
San Diego, CA 92128
Get Directions
Tuesday: 8am – 5pm
Wednesday: 8am – 5pm
Thursday: 8am – 5pm
Friday: 8am – 2:30pm
Saturday: 8am – 3pm (2 Saturdays per month)
Pediatric & Adult Dentistry: (858) 676-5000
Orthodontics: (858) 676-5010
Healthy smiles start here
Take the first step toward exceptional dental care for your family.
Click below to schedule your visit today!