Meet your doctors
Meet Our Kids’ Dentists in Lakewood, CO
Three doctors, one gentle mission — children’s dentistry and orthodontics under one roof, a team your child can grow up with.
Children's Dentistry
Dr. Lawrence Musanje
Lawrence Musanje, DDS, PhD
Dr. Lawrence Musanje attended dental school at Wuhan University in China and completed his PhD in dental filling materials at the University of Hong Kong. He then attended the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine, graduating in 2008. Dr. Musanje is dedicated to establishing a cheerful and caring dental home that children enjoy visiting, and to helping all his patients overcome dental anxiety. He is a strong believer that excellent oral health is the key to everyone’s overall health and well-being. His gentle nature and years of dental training create a welcoming environment for every patient. He has practiced in the Lakewood area since June 2011.
Dr. Musanje and his wife, Jennifer, have two children, Angie and Judith. When not in the office, he enjoys traveling, jogging and hiking.
Education
- DDS — Wuhan University
- PhD — University of Hong Kong
- DDS — University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine
Children's Dentistry
Dr. Laya Bahrani
Laya Bahrani, DDS
Dr. Laya Bahrani graduated from Case Western Reserve University before receiving her dental degree from the New York University College of Dentistry in 2020. She understands the importance of keeping up with the latest materials, procedures and findings in the world of dentistry. Dr. Bahrani has been serving the Colorado community since 2021. Her goal is to educate her patients to care for their oral health and overall systemic health, to provide treatment at the highest standard of care, and to create an environment where patients feel comfortable and cared for.
Education
- BS — Case Western Reserve University
- DDS — New York University College of Dentistry
Orthodontics
Dr. Dafne Ellis
Dafne Ellis, DMD, MS
Dr. Dafne Ellis is a dedicated orthodontist serving the Lakewood, Colorado community. Originally from San Juan, Argentina, her passion for dentistry was sparked at an early age by the positive impact of her own orthodontic experience.
Dr. Ellis began her academic journey at the University of Córdoba in Argentina before moving to the United States. In 2001, she enrolled at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, where she graduated summa cum laude with a degree in Health Professions. She was then accepted into the University of Florida College of Dentistry, where she graduated at the top of her class in 2009.
Following dental school, Dr. Ellis completed a three-year orthodontic residency at the University of Florida. During this time, she earned a Master of Science degree with a thesis focused on cleft lip patients, showcasing her dedication to both research and patient care.
In 2012, shortly after completing her residency, Dr. Ellis became the proud owner of Lakewood Orthodontics. For over a decade, she has built a thriving practice, transforming thousands of smiles and earning the trust of her community.
Outside of her professional life, Dr. Ellis is the proud mother of two bright, energetic boys, Bear and Ronan. She enjoys making the most of Colorado’s natural beauty through activities like cycling, snowboarding, running, and traveling. Above all, her family and patients remain her top priorities.
Education
- University of Córdoba, Argentina
- University of Arkansas at Little Rock — BS, Health Professions (Summa Cum Laude)
- University of Florida College of Dentistry — DMD
- University of Florida — MS, Orthodontics
Professional memberships
Trusted by the Organizations That Matter
Our doctors maintain active memberships with the leading dental and pediatric dental organizations in the country.
ADA
American Dental Association
CDA
Colorado Dental Association
MDDS
Metro Denver Dental Society
AAPD
American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
Come Meet Your Child’s Doctor
The best way to know if we are the right fit is to bring your child by. We will move at their pace, and yours.