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Your Gleaming Teeth, Our Passion
About Prakash Dental
Our team of friendly, experienced staff uses modern technology along with caring, highly professional services. We provide our patients with the best and most comprehensive dental care possible.
Prakash Dental offers family, general and cosmetic dentistry care in the DeLand area. There is nothing more beautiful than a healthy smile. The team at Prakash Dental will keep your teeth and gums healthy and looking great for years to come.
GET IN TOUCHOur Mission
Our practice is working together to realize a shared vision of uncompromising excellence in dentistry. To fulfill this mission, we are committed to:
Patient-centered care
Listening to those we are privileged to serve.
Clinical excellence
Earn the trust and respect of patients, profession and community.
Trust and respect
Exceed your expectations.
Continuous growth
Ensure a creative, challenging and compassionate professional environment.
Compassionate service
Strive for continuous improvement at all levels.
Meet Our Team
The dental practice team at Prakash Dental is proud to provide you with expert consultation and treatment. All professionals at Prakash Dental maintain the highest levels of accreditation and pursue ongoing education to stay abreast of the latest trends in the medical field. Read on to learn more about our staff's experience and training.
Dr. A. Jai Prakash
Dentist
Dr. A. Jai Prakash: A Legacy of Care and Continuous Learning
With over 50 years of experience in dentistry, Dr. A. Jai Prakash is renowned for his unwavering dedication to patient health and his passion for continuous learning. His guiding principle has always been simple yet profound: to place his patients' health and well-being as his top priority.
A Journey Shaped by Global Influence
Dr. Prakash's career began after completing his dental education in Bombay (now Mumbai), India. He then served at a mission hospital, sponsored by Church World Service, where he collaborated closely with American dentists trained in the U.S. Their influence inspired him to continue his service in the United States, recognizing the growing need for qualified dental professionals.After obtaining his Florida dental license, Dr. Prakash furthered his expertise by earning a Master’s degree in dental education at the University of Florida in Gainesville. He established his first practice in Casselberry, Florida, before moving to the DeLand community in the year 2000, where he has practiced ever since.
Commitment to the Future of Dentistry
A firm believer in the power of innovation, Dr. Prakash is dedicated to remaining at the forefront of dental advancements. He continuously expands his knowledge and skills, actively attending workshops, seminars, and conferences to integrate the latest technologies and techniques into his practice, ensuring his patients receive modern, comprehensive care.
Beyond the Practice
Outside of his clinical life, Dr. Prakash is an avid, award-winning tennis enthusiast. This passion reflects his competitive spirit and his belief in maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle—values he actively instills in his patients. Dr. Prakash proudly shares his life with his loving wife, Pushpa, and their charming daughter, Preeti.
A New Chapter for the DeLand Community
In early 2025, in response to the growing dental needs of the DeLand area, Dr. Prakash welcomed a highly talented and like-minded professional, Dr. Monica Polakhare, to the practice.
"I am very excited to have found a similar-minded dentist in Dr. Monica who, in a short time, has established herself as a very caring, passionate, talented, and dedicated dentist, earning the trust and smiles of our patients," Dr. Prakash shares. “We are now well staffed and equipped to address the growing needs of our community, and we look forward to serving our patients for many years to come.”
A Journey Shaped by Global Influence
Dr. Prakash's career began after completing his dental education in Bombay (now Mumbai), India. He then served at a mission hospital, sponsored by Church World Service, where he collaborated closely with American dentists trained in the U.S. Their influence inspired him to continue his service in the United States, recognizing the growing need for qualified dental professionals.After obtaining his Florida dental license, Dr. Prakash furthered his expertise by earning a Master’s degree in dental education at the University of Florida in Gainesville. He established his first practice in Casselberry, Florida, before moving to the DeLand community in the year 2000, where he has practiced ever since.
Commitment to the Future of Dentistry
A firm believer in the power of innovation, Dr. Prakash is dedicated to remaining at the forefront of dental advancements. He continuously expands his knowledge and skills, actively attending workshops, seminars, and conferences to integrate the latest technologies and techniques into his practice, ensuring his patients receive modern, comprehensive care.
Beyond the Practice
Outside of his clinical life, Dr. Prakash is an avid, award-winning tennis enthusiast. This passion reflects his competitive spirit and his belief in maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle—values he actively instills in his patients. Dr. Prakash proudly shares his life with his loving wife, Pushpa, and their charming daughter, Preeti.
A New Chapter for the DeLand Community
In early 2025, in response to the growing dental needs of the DeLand area, Dr. Prakash welcomed a highly talented and like-minded professional, Dr. Monica Polakhare, to the practice.
"I am very excited to have found a similar-minded dentist in Dr. Monica who, in a short time, has established herself as a very caring, passionate, talented, and dedicated dentist, earning the trust and smiles of our patients," Dr. Prakash shares. “We are now well staffed and equipped to address the growing needs of our community, and we look forward to serving our patients for many years to come.”
Dr. Monica Polakhare
Dentist
Dr. Monica Polakhare: Bringing Decades of Global Expertise to Your Smile
With over 20 years of experience spanning both India and the United States, Dr. Monica Polakhare is a compassionate and dedicated dental professional focused on providing personalized, world-class care.Dr. Polakhare's extensive background is unique: she earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from the University at Buffalo in 2024, building on her earlier Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) from India (2002). This blend of global training, coupled with her hands-on experience as a former Dental Hygienist and Assistant in the U.S., provides her with an exceptional, well-rounded perspective on patient health.
“I am so excited to join Dr. Prakash and his team in DeLand and serve the needs of the local community. I have already met so many wonderful people and have enjoyed the opportunity to help provide high quality dental care. I look forward to serving the needs of the DeLand and the central Florida coastal community in the years ahead.”
Commitment to Lifelong Learning
She is deeply committed to lifelong learning and advanced techniques, continually pursuing education in areas such as dental implants and Invisalign, and is actively enrolled in the prestigious MAGD (Mastership in the Academy of General Dentistry) program at the University of Florida.
Striving for Personal Growth
Beyond the clinic, Dr. Polakhare gives back to the community through volunteer work with initiatives like Florida Mission of Mercy (FL MOM) and Remote Area Medical (RAM). She is proficient in English, Hindi, and Marathi, ensuring comfortable communication for a diverse patient base. When she’s not transforming smiles, she maintains a balanced life enjoying cooking, painting, and hiking, and is a competitive table tennis player.
“I am so excited to join Dr. Prakash and his team in DeLand and serve the needs of the local community. I have already met so many wonderful people and have enjoyed the opportunity to help provide high quality dental care. I look forward to serving the needs of the DeLand and the central Florida coastal community in the years ahead.”
Commitment to Lifelong Learning
She is deeply committed to lifelong learning and advanced techniques, continually pursuing education in areas such as dental implants and Invisalign, and is actively enrolled in the prestigious MAGD (Mastership in the Academy of General Dentistry) program at the University of Florida.
Striving for Personal Growth
Beyond the clinic, Dr. Polakhare gives back to the community through volunteer work with initiatives like Florida Mission of Mercy (FL MOM) and Remote Area Medical (RAM). She is proficient in English, Hindi, and Marathi, ensuring comfortable communication for a diverse patient base. When she’s not transforming smiles, she maintains a balanced life enjoying cooking, painting, and hiking, and is a competitive table tennis player.
Vicki Crosley
Office Manager
Vicki Crosley - The Cornerstone of Dr. Prakash's Practice
Vicki Crosley is a highly respected professional, bringing over 20 years of expertise in the dental industry to Dr. Prakash’s practice, where she has been an indispensable member since 2004. Known for her deep knowledge, unwavering dedication, and profoundly compassionate approach, Vicki has established herself as both a trusted leader and a supportive colleague. Her commitment to service extends beyond standard hours, as she is always ready to assist Dr. Prakash and patients, even during evenings or holidays, reflecting her genuine care for the community she serves.
As the Office Manager, Vicki ensures the smooth, efficient execution of all daily operations. Her strong organizational skills and wealth of experience are vital for managing intricate scheduling, overseeing patient insurance inquiries, and expertly assisting with various financial matters. By meticulously streamlining office processes, Vicki guarantees a seamless, positive experience for both her team and every patient who visits the practice.
Outside of the office, Vicki finds peace and rejuvenation in nature and is a devoted animal lover, particularly of cats. Whether she is actively gardening or simply relaxing in the company of her furry companions, the outdoors provides her with essential downtime. Warm, approachable, and always eager to help, Vicki is far more than just the cornerstone of the practice's management—she is a compassionate presence that both patients and colleagues rely on for personalized support.
As the Office Manager, Vicki ensures the smooth, efficient execution of all daily operations. Her strong organizational skills and wealth of experience are vital for managing intricate scheduling, overseeing patient insurance inquiries, and expertly assisting with various financial matters. By meticulously streamlining office processes, Vicki guarantees a seamless, positive experience for both her team and every patient who visits the practice.
Outside of the office, Vicki finds peace and rejuvenation in nature and is a devoted animal lover, particularly of cats. Whether she is actively gardening or simply relaxing in the company of her furry companions, the outdoors provides her with essential downtime. Warm, approachable, and always eager to help, Vicki is far more than just the cornerstone of the practice's management—she is a compassionate presence that both patients and colleagues rely on for personalized support.
Christy Cooper
Dental Assistant
Christy Cooper - Dedicated and Compassionate EFDA
Christy Cooper is a dedicated and highly skilled Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA) who brings genuine warmth and expertise to Dr. Prakash's team. Since graduating from her Dental Assistant program in 2017, Christy has been a valued member of the practice, quickly building a reputation for her reliability, deep knowledge, and profound kindness. Her commitment to providing compassionate, high-quality dental care is evident in every patient interaction.
With a calm, friendly, and naturally positive demeanor, Christy excels at making patients feel comfortable and completely at ease during their appointments. Her professionalism and warmth help create a welcoming and reassuring environment, ensuring that every person who visits the practice feels genuinely cared for. This ability to connect with patients makes her an indispensable asset to the team.
Outside of the dental office, Christy embraces life with joy, cherishing quality time with loved ones and enjoying the outdoors . She often spends time out on the boat fishing with her husband or relaxing at the beach with family and friends. Christy's unwavering dedication to her profession, combined with her innate kindness, makes her an essential part of the dental team and a favorite among patients.
With a calm, friendly, and naturally positive demeanor, Christy excels at making patients feel comfortable and completely at ease during their appointments. Her professionalism and warmth help create a welcoming and reassuring environment, ensuring that every person who visits the practice feels genuinely cared for. This ability to connect with patients makes her an indispensable asset to the team.
Outside of the dental office, Christy embraces life with joy, cherishing quality time with loved ones and enjoying the outdoors . She often spends time out on the boat fishing with her husband or relaxing at the beach with family and friends. Christy's unwavering dedication to her profession, combined with her innate kindness, makes her an essential part of the dental team and a favorite among patients.
Claudia Blanco
Dental Assistant
Claudia Blanco - Motivated EFDA and Future Hygienist
Claudia Blanco is a dedicated and compassionate Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA) who became an integral part of Dr. Prakash's team in 2024. Having successfully graduated from the Dental Assistant Program in 2023, Claudia quickly applied her fresh knowledge and enthusiasm to the field. She is recognized for her meticulous attention to detail and her ability to build immediate trust and rapport with both colleagues and patients.
With a consistently calm and kind demeanor, Claudia plays a vital role in creating a comfortable and relaxed environment within the practice. She is skilled at easing patients' nerves and ensuring they feel completely at ease throughout their dental visits. Her genuine warmth and focus on patient well-being contribute significantly to the positive atmosphere of the office, making her a highly valued team member.
Claudia is exceptionally motivated and actively continuing her education with the clear goal of becoming a Dental Hygienist . This aspiration reflects her deep passion for learning and her drive to achieve advanced professional goals, marking her as a bright individual with a promising future in dentistry. In her free time, she enjoys attending concerts, watching movies, and spending quality time with family and friends, staying energized for her busy schedule with her favorite Alani energy drinks.
With a consistently calm and kind demeanor, Claudia plays a vital role in creating a comfortable and relaxed environment within the practice. She is skilled at easing patients' nerves and ensuring they feel completely at ease throughout their dental visits. Her genuine warmth and focus on patient well-being contribute significantly to the positive atmosphere of the office, making her a highly valued team member.
Claudia is exceptionally motivated and actively continuing her education with the clear goal of becoming a Dental Hygienist . This aspiration reflects her deep passion for learning and her drive to achieve advanced professional goals, marking her as a bright individual with a promising future in dentistry. In her free time, she enjoys attending concerts, watching movies, and spending quality time with family and friends, staying energized for her busy schedule with her favorite Alani energy drinks.
Prashant Saoji
Dental Technician
Prashant Saoji - Master Dental Technician and Artistic Partner
Prashant has been an absolutely integral part of our practice's journey for over 30 years, and his impact is immeasurable. From a young age, his profound passion for painting and creating was evident, and that same artistic spirit still shines through in all of his work today. As a master dental technician, he does far more than just fabricate crowns, veneers, and dentures ; he expertly brings them to life with an unmatched level of precision, meticulous care, and a true artist's eye for aesthetic detail.
Working alongside Dr. Prakash for more than three decades, Prashant has poured his heart and extraordinary skill into every case, no matter the complexity. His remarkable ability to sculpt and build custom restorations from scratch has enabled our patients to achieve truly life-changing results. His exceptional craftsmanship has allowed us to restore not just beautiful smiles, but, more importantly, the confidence and happiness of countless patients.
To the entire team, Prashant is much more than a technician; he is a trusted, quiet force behind the scenes and a true artistic partner whose professional contributions have been invaluable. Our practice, and all of our patients, are significantly better because of his dedication and mastery.
Working alongside Dr. Prakash for more than three decades, Prashant has poured his heart and extraordinary skill into every case, no matter the complexity. His remarkable ability to sculpt and build custom restorations from scratch has enabled our patients to achieve truly life-changing results. His exceptional craftsmanship has allowed us to restore not just beautiful smiles, but, more importantly, the confidence and happiness of countless patients.
To the entire team, Prashant is much more than a technician; he is a trusted, quiet force behind the scenes and a true artistic partner whose professional contributions have been invaluable. Our practice, and all of our patients, are significantly better because of his dedication and mastery.
Debbie Wright
Dental Hygienist
Debbie Wright, RDH - Dedicated Care with a Personal Touch
Debbie Wright is a highly experienced Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) and a proud native Floridian hailing from Tampa. Her distinguished career in the dental field spans an impressive 35 years, beginning with a decade as a dental assistant before transitioning to her role as a dedicated dental hygienist for the last 25 years. Debbie possesses a deep love for all aspects of the dental world, with a special focus on helping patients achieve optimal oral health with an enjoyable, anxiety-free experience.
Throughout her extensive career, Debbie has embraced the evolution of the dental field, incorporating new technology and specializations to provide the best care possible. She finds it exciting to leverage these advancements to benefit her patients, many of whom have become personal friends over the years. Her professional fulfillment comes from making a tangible difference in the health and comfort of those she serves.
Outside of the office, Debbie, a long-time resident of Deltona since 1989, leads an active life rooted in nature and animal welfare. She enjoys kayaking, camping, gardening, and walking on the beach . Her commitment to animals is evident in her care for a local cat colony and her six beloved cats at home. Debbie looks forward to meeting and taking care of you in a professional, caring, and skilled manner.
Throughout her extensive career, Debbie has embraced the evolution of the dental field, incorporating new technology and specializations to provide the best care possible. She finds it exciting to leverage these advancements to benefit her patients, many of whom have become personal friends over the years. Her professional fulfillment comes from making a tangible difference in the health and comfort of those she serves.
Outside of the office, Debbie, a long-time resident of Deltona since 1989, leads an active life rooted in nature and animal welfare. She enjoys kayaking, camping, gardening, and walking on the beach . Her commitment to animals is evident in her care for a local cat colony and her six beloved cats at home. Debbie looks forward to meeting and taking care of you in a professional, caring, and skilled manner.
Maribel Moreno
Dental Hygienist
Maribel Moreno, RDH - Dedicated to Health and Education
Maribel Moreno, RDH, is a highly experienced and dedicated dental hygienist with over 28 years in the field. Her commitment to oral health began even earlier, stemming from eight years spent as a periodontal dental assistant, a period that ignited her deep passion for helping patients achieve healthier smiles. With this extensive background and a wealth of knowledge, Maribel skillfully combines technical expertise, genuine compassion, and patient education in every interaction, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and truly cared for.
Maribel believes that dental hygiene extends far beyond a simple cleaning. Her core philosophy centers on empowering her patients through comprehensive education, ensuring they fully understand how maintaining strong oral health profoundly impacts their overall well-being. By utilizing a gentle, highly personalized approach, her primary goal is to make a significant, lasting difference in each patient's journey toward optimal health, successfully building trust and long-term confidence.
Outside of the dental office, Maribel leads a vibrant and active life. She is an involved member of her LDS church community and enjoys staying fit through energized activities like road biking and playing pickleball . She also embraces her energetic spirit by taking salsa lessons, a true reflection of her joy for life. Maribel’s passion and dedication, both professionally and personally, make her an exceptionally valued member of the dental team.
Maribel believes that dental hygiene extends far beyond a simple cleaning. Her core philosophy centers on empowering her patients through comprehensive education, ensuring they fully understand how maintaining strong oral health profoundly impacts their overall well-being. By utilizing a gentle, highly personalized approach, her primary goal is to make a significant, lasting difference in each patient's journey toward optimal health, successfully building trust and long-term confidence.
Outside of the dental office, Maribel leads a vibrant and active life. She is an involved member of her LDS church community and enjoys staying fit through energized activities like road biking and playing pickleball . She also embraces her energetic spirit by taking salsa lessons, a true reflection of her joy for life. Maribel’s passion and dedication, both professionally and personally, make her an exceptionally valued member of the dental team.
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