The why: Background story
In the heart of Toronto’s vibrant Leslieville community, a kids dentistry practice has opened its doors with a heartfelt mission to become a warm, welcoming home for children’s oral health. Leslieville Kids Dental Centre was founded by husband-and-wife duo Dr. Helia Koleini and Dr. Jacob Balkos. It reflects their personal love story as well as their professional vision for high-quality children’s dental care. Dr. Koleini was born in Iran and raised in the U.S. while Dr. Balkos is native to Toronto. Their paths aligned during their pediatric dentistry specialty training at the University of San Antonio. Being one year ahead, Helia was assigned to be Jacob’s senior student mentor. Over time, what began as an academic mentorship, that was built on a passion for children’s dental health and wellbeing, naturally evolved into a shared life journey. After graduation, she practiced in Texas while he completed his residency. In 2023, they moved to Toronto, excited to start a practice as partners in business and life.
The how: Strategic project planning
In early 2023, with help from Dr. Balkos’s father, a commercial real estate agent, the couple began searching for the right space. The Toronto market was challenging, with options that included subdividing large units or gutting a former convenience store. However, both required significant demolition and rezoning. Their priorities were ground-floor stroller-friendly access, free parking, and ample square footage for growth. They eventually secured a 3,400 sq/ft unit beside a Canadian Tire anchor tenant with covered parking for snowy winters. The eight-operatory space would allow for two consult rooms and the future integration of other specialties. The circular layout was designed to avoid bottlenecks and support efficient patient flow. Unexpected plumbing issues required redesign and re-permitting of the office, causing a three-month delay. Despite the challenges, they remained focused and eventually created a space that reflects their clinical goals and family values, blended into a warm patient environment and efficient workflow setting.
The results: Technical design features
The partners wanted to create a space that felt fun and inviting for kids, yet calm and sophisticated for parents. After exploring different ideas, they were inspired by the concept of a colouring book coming to life. They designed a cast of custom characters called Tooth Buds, each with a unique personality. These friendly figures were brought to life in the space through playful wall murals that became the names of each operatory, giving the clinic a memorable identity that children’s imagination could connect with. To align with the broader community, colourful benches in the reception area mirror those found in nearby parks. Technology was thoughtfully woven, with TVs mounted in the ceilings to help children relax during procedures. The team also worked closely with A-dec to custom design a pediatric cart that supports smoother clinical workflows while enhancing comfort for both patients and providers.
The outcome: Practice success & community impact
When Leslieville Kids Dental Center officially opened, the vision was bigger than dentistry alone. The goal was to create a healthcare hub where families felt genuinely welcomed so children could experience dentistry in a positive light from their earliest years. The community’s response has been enthusiastic, with patients praising the thoughtful amenities and warm, playful environment. By combining their complementary strengths, Dr. Koleini and Dr. Balkos have built a culture of teamwork that extends beyond their staff and touches every family who walks through the doors. They strive for an atmosphere where young patients can feel stimulated and comfortable in equal measure. The practice stands as a community space where prevention, innovation, and family-centred design come together to create healthier, happier smiles for the next generation.
- Equipment Supplier: Patterson Dental
- Construction: Canadian Dental Construction
About the authors
Darcie is co-founder of Bella Vita Designs Inc, an interior design company specializing in creating beautiful, functional spaces for start-ups, remodelling, expanding, or relocating your dream practice. To discuss your office space needs or to have your proud story & unique design featured, she can be reached at darcie@bellavitadesigns.ca / IG @bellavitadesignsinc / 905-716-8528.
Peter is the Founder of Practice Mastery Inc., a Business Development Coaching company that serves the growth & development needs of your practice. His unique coaching empowers teams, principal dentists, associates & industry companies across North America to achieve extraordinary growth, higher income, and exceptional quality of life. FMI IG @peterbarrycoach, peter@practicemastery.com, www.practicemastery.com, 416.568.5456.