We recognize that all of our patients are unique and deserve to receive dental care that reflects their individual needs. Our experienced and talented dental team is committed to working with you and your family to create a comfortable, stress-free, and rewarding dental experience every time you visit our practice.
We are pleased to welcome you and your family, and we look forward to working with you.
Wendy Surfas-Lekavich, MPA
Executive Director
Special Needs Dental Associates was started in 2007 when Dr. Lekavich and I recognized that access to care was a challenge for individuals with disabilites and medical complexities. Our practice was created with a focused mission to provide best of class dental care exclusively for individuals with medical complexities, disabilities, and behavioral challenges.
I earned a Master's degree in Public Administration with a focus on healthcare, and have an extensive background in network development and management. Over the past 25+ years I have worked extensively with physicians, medical groups, hospitals, and health plans to develop protocals and processes in order to manage clear, consise operations across several healthcare organizations.
Our practice coordinated with several regional centers and fostered relationships with UCLA Ronald Reagan and UCLA Santa Monica hospitals to develop protocols for hospital dentistry in a niche that has limited providers to create a best of class environment for patients, families, facilities, and other caregivers.
I enjoy spending time with my family and friends and I am an active member of several charity organizations across Southern CA. In addition, I love to walk at the beach, travel the US and world, and explore new places to walk and hike with our service dog, Yami.
Melissa Walker
Operations Manager
As our operations manager, I oversee the daily administrative and operational functions of the office to ensure a seamless experience for our patients, caregivers, and clinical team.
I hold a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Communication from Arizona State University and have completed additional healthcare coursework through Kaplan University. My background includes extensive professional training in customer service, client relations, and account management, which supports my ability to effectively communicate with patients, caregivers, and medical providers in a complex healthcare setting.
My favorite part of my job is working in a compassionate environment that serves adults with special needs. I am continually moved by the strength, resilience, and heart of the individuals and families we serve. I enjoy working alongside Dr. Lekavich, Wendy, and Sokee, who are not only professional and highly skilled, but also compassionate and upbeat with our patients. Being part of a team that truly cares about delivering thoughtful, patient-centered care makes the work meaningful every day.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time outdoors and staying active in my community through leadership and service. I have a personal passion for preventive health and nutrition and am always seeking new opportunities for learning and growth.
Sokee Yan
Dental Hygienist
I earned my Associate of Science Degree in Dental Hygiene from Concorde in Garden Grove, where I received comprehensive training in preventive care, periodontal therapy, radiology, patient assessment, and infection control.
Although I truly enjoy removing dental calculus and making teeth shine, my favorite part of my job is building meaningful connections with my patients. I value the opportunity to interact with them, getting to know them personally, and creating a comfortable, trusting environment where they feel heard and cared for.
I also feel incredibly fortunate and grateful to work alongside Dr. Lekavich and the rest of our amazing team. The level of care, compassion, and dedication they bring to every single patient is amazing, and I see that the patients feel it too.
I’m a proud mom of three amazing kids, who I lovingly call my “kitties” because they insist on pretending to be kittens. I’m married to an incredible husband who’s my biggest supporter! He even cheers me on when I come up with my craziest ideas! My favorite sport is badminton, and in my spare time I love to craft and catch Pokémon in the wild. I also really value slowing down and soaking in the little moments with those I love.
Bailey Lekavich
Corporation Consultant - People Engagement and Project Management
My role focuses on ensuring patients have a smooth and welcoming experience from their very first interaction with our office. I coordinate the new patient onboarding process, assist with scheduling and paperwork for procedures, and help manage medical records and insurance verification. I also serve as a point of contact for patients, families, and healthcare partners, while supporting front desk operations to help our practice run efficiently.
My favorite part of the job is being able to help people. I am incredibly proud to be part of a practice that serves patients with medical and behavioral challenges. The work we do is meaningful and requires compassion, patience, and teamwork. It’s inspiring to be surrounded by people who are so dedicated to making a difference in our patients’ lives.
I am a graduate student at Columbia University pursuing my Master’s degree in Social-Organizational Psychology. When I’m not studying or working, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, exploring New York City, and discovering new restaurants and activities around the city.