Our Practice
Meet the Kindred Dental Family
We're more than a dental practice — we're neighbors, caregivers, and partners in your long-term health. Rooted in Washington, DC, we're proud to serve our community with skill, warmth, and integrity.
Our Mission
Care That Feels Like Family
Kindred Dental was founded on a simple belief: every patient deserves exceptional dental care delivered with genuine compassion. Dr. Nicholas Kindred built this practice to be a place where patients feel heard, respected, and comfortable — whether it's their first visit or their fiftieth.
We offer a comprehensive range of services under one roof, from routine preventative care to advanced restorative and surgical treatments. Our team brings together decades of combined experience across every major dental specialty, so our patients rarely need to look elsewhere.
We serve the Washington, DC community with pride, and we're committed to making high-quality dental care accessible to everyone — regardless of insurance status or financial situation.
Our Team
The People Behind Your Smile
Dr. Nicolas Rafael Kindred
DDSFounder & General Dentist
Dr. Nicolas Rafael Kindred is a native of Alabama and the first dentist in his family. His parents owned a neighborhood convenience store that gave him unlimited access to candy — and cavities, combined with a motorcycle accident as a teenager, led him through multiple dental procedures that sparked a lifelong fascination. "I can vividly remember being mesmerized by watching my dentist work when I was a kid. As the patient, I gazed in amazement at the mirror-like reflection on his glasses as he created magic," says Dr. Kindred. Having personally experienced most of the procedures he now provides, he is uniquely equipped to form a genuine, kindred rapport with every patient.
Dr. Kindred received his undergraduate degree from Alabama State University Summa Cum Laude. He then spent a year working in a dental laboratory, learning the craft of dental prosthesis fabrication from the ground up. With dreams of advancing to the forefront of dentistry, he was awarded a scholarship to attend Howard University College of Dentistry in Washington, DC. He went on to complete an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at the University of Texas School of Dentistry and its affiliate Memorial Hermann Hospital.
Dr. Kindred believes continuing education is essential to staying at the leading edge of dental care. He is a proud member of the American Dental Association and the Washington DC Dental Society, and since graduating in 2010 has accumulated far more continuing education hours than required — ensuring his patients always benefit from the latest techniques and innovations.
Dr. Aaron Whitaker
DDSGeneral Dentist & Prosthodontic Specialist
Dr. Aaron Whitaker brings over 30 years of specialized expertise in removable prosthodontics to the Kindred Dental team. A master of denture fabrication, Dr. Whitaker's precision and artistry ensure that patients receiving removable prosthetics — full or partial dentures — get results that look natural, fit comfortably, and restore full function. His decades of experience make him one of the most accomplished practitioners in his field in the DC area.
Lauren Bonner
RDHRegistered Dental Hygienist
Lauren Bonner is a Registered Dental Hygienist whose gentle touch and thorough technique make even the most anxious patients feel comfortable. Lauren performs professional cleanings, periodontal assessments, sealants, fluoride treatments, and patient education — the cornerstone of preventative care at Kindred Dental. Her warmth and professionalism set the tone for every patient's visit.
Marleni Villegas
Office Manager
Marleni Villegas keeps Kindred Dental running smoothly as our Office Manager. From scheduling and insurance coordination to patient communications and day-to-day operations, Marleni ensures that every visit — from the first phone call to checkout — is seamless and stress-free. Her organizational expertise and genuine care for patients make her an indispensable part of the team.
Silvia Ellis
Lab Manager
Silvia Ellis oversees the dental laboratory at Kindred Dental, managing the fabrication and quality control of restorations, prosthetics, and custom appliances. Her meticulous attention to detail ensures that every crown, bridge, denture, and mouth guard meets the highest standards of fit, function, and aesthetics before it reaches the patient.
In the Community
Giving Back to Washington, DC
Kindred Dental is more than a practice — it's a community institution. Dr. Kindred and the team are active participants in local health initiatives, outreach events, and neighborhood programs across Washington, DC. We believe that healthy smiles start with accessible care, and we're committed to showing up for our community both inside and outside the office.
Come Meet the Team
New patients are always welcome. We'd love to be your dental home.