It’s easy to understand why Dr. Despina Markogiannakis of Smiles of Chevy Chase has been named a “Top Dentist” by both Washingtonian and Potomac Lifestyle magazines, as well as The Face of Smile Makeover. Dr. Markogiannakis, along with her associate Dr. Suzanne McShane and their dedicated team, focuses on treating patients with the highest level of trust, providing them with the oral care needed for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Today, Dr. Markogiannakis owns Smiles of Chevy Chase, where she and her team provide comprehensive dental care to patients throughout the Washington, D.C. area. Smiles of Chevy Chase is an advanced general dental practice that offers everything from same-day emergencies, routine cleanings, fillings, crowns, porcelain veneers, implants, clear aligner therapy, TMJ relief, Botox, laser gum therapy, and Zoom whitening – all in one convenient location.
A Passion for Dentistry from an Early Age
Dr. Markogiannakis found her calling at just ten years old when a visiting dentist at school described his work as both an “art and a science.” From that moment, she was determined to help people smile. She gained hands-on experience working in dental offices, shadowing orthodontists, oral surgeons, and general dentists. A Washingtonian native, she attended Georgetown University before earning her Doctor of Dental Surgery from Howard University Dental School.
A Patient-Centered Approach
What sets Smiles of Chevy Chase apart is their commitment to understanding each patient’s unique needs. At the first visit, the team gathers a full medical and dental history and takes necessary images to create a customized care plan.
“We don’t put our patients in a box—we look at where they are in life,” says Dr. Markogiannakis. She and her team educate patients on the vital connection between oral and overall health, emphasizing that the mouth is the gateway to the body.
Prioritizing Women’s Health
As an active mother of four young children—with a husband and two dogs—Dr. Markogiannakis understands how challenging it can be for women to prioritize their health. However, she stresses the importance of oral care, as hormonal changes can increase the risk of dental and systemic issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and pregnancy complications.
Her all-female team provides a welcoming environment where women feel heard and supported. With May recognized as Women’s Health Month, Smiles of Chevy Chase continues to advocate for better oral health awareness among women.
A Relaxing, Spa-Like Dental Experience
For many, visiting the dentist can be an anxiety-inducing experience. Smiles of Chevy Chase has addressed this by creating a spa-like office environment designed to ease nerves. Their new office, located at 5454 Wisconsin Ave, Suite 810 in Chevy Chase, MD, features a soft gray-and-white color scheme and plush seating, resembling a five-star hotel rather than a clinical setting.
For those with dental anxiety, sedation dentistry is available for everything from routine cleanings to more involved procedures. Options include oral-conscious sedation and nitrous oxide, which allows patients to resume their day immediately after their appointment.
Enhancing Smiles with Advanced Technology
Smiles of Chevy Chase utilizes state-of-the-art dental technology to ensure accurate diagnoses and superior treatment outcomes. Key innovations include:
- Intraoral Cameras – Allowing patients to see what their dentist sees in real time.
- CBCT Imaging (3D Scans) – Offering detailed views for precise diagnoses.
- Digital Impressions – Providing a more comfortable, highly accurate alternative to traditional molds for crowns, veneers, and Invisalign.
By leveraging the latest technology, the team ensures that patients receive the best possible care with minimal discomfort.
Transforming Smiles, Changing Lives
From porcelain veneers to Invisalign, Smiles of Chevy Chase helps patients achieve the smile they’ve always wanted. Properly aligned teeth are not just about aesthetics—they contribute to better oral health by reducing plaque buildup and the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Giving Back to the Community
Dr. Markogiannakis and her team believe in making a difference beyond dentistry. This year, Smiles of Chevy Chase has raised over $20,000 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Dr. Markogiannakis recently attended the Wish Ball as a sponsor for the Mid-Atlantic region. The office also displays and sells international artwork, with all proceeds benefiting global charities.
A Dental Practice You Can Trust
Dr. Markogiannakis and Smiles of Chevy Chase welcome new patients seeking a dental team they can trust. Complimentary consultations are always available, ensuring every patient feels informed and confident in their care.
With a focus on trust, advanced technology, and a commitment to giving back, Smiles of Chevy Chase is redefining modern dentistry—one healthy, radiant smile at a time.
Smiles Of Chevy Chase
5454 Wisconsin Ave, Suite 810
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
info@smilesofchevychase.com
smilesofchevychase.com
Phone: 301-652-0656
IG: @smilesofchevychase
“We don’t put our patients in a box but look at where they are in their life.” Patients are told how their overall health is linked to their dental health, and that the mouth is the pathway to the rest of the body.