Community Highlights: Meet Sina Banankhah of Sinai Orthodontics

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sina Banankhah.

Hi Sina, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My name is Dr. Sina, and I’m a board-certified orthodontist who grew up here in the sunny SoCal. I completed my undergraduate studies at UCLA, where I majored in biochemistry, and went on to continue my education at the UCLA School of Dentistry. Dentistry was always familiar to me; my mother is a general dentist, and watching the way she cared for her patients left a lasting impression. I was drawn to the idea of healthcare that is both deeply human and deeply personal, and I loved the simple but powerful idea of being able to bring a smile to someone’s face.
As I explored different avenues within dentistry, orthodontics stood out to me in a very meaningful way. Part of that came from my own experience as an orthodontic patient, but what truly sealed it was the nature of orthodontic care itself. Treatment happens over time, which allows me to build real relationships with my patients, follow their journeys, be part of their lives, and thoughtfully craft a smile that reflects who they are.
After completing my training, I worked in a variety of dental settings across Southern California, including San Diego, Palm Springs, and Los Angeles. Each experience taught me something valuable, but I also began to notice recurring shortcomings—high-volume models where patient experience wasn’t always the priority. That clarity ultimately led me to realize that I needed to create my own space in order to deliver the kind of care I truly believe in.
Opening my practice in Studio City felt like coming home. It’s where I have roots, where my family lives, and where I felt I could build something intentional, warm, and deeply aligned with my values.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road—starting a practice from the ground up is both exciting and incredibly challenging. A startup requires wearing many hats at once and taking countless steps before you ever see your first patient.
From finding the right contractor and working closely with architects to design a space that feels calm and welcoming, to securing permits, purchasing equipment, building a team, and creating a brand identity—it’s been a full emotional and logistical journey. On top of that, learning how to market the practice and put ourselves out into the community has been a humbling experience.
That said, every challenge has reinforced why I chose this path. Each step, even the difficult ones, has helped shape a practice that feels intentional, grounded, and aligned with the kind of care I want to offer.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Sinai Orthodontics?
We are a boutique orthodontic practice offering traditional braces, Invisalign treatment, and tooth whitening. What truly sets us apart is our philosophy: we don’t focus on seeing a high volume of patients—we focus on the patient experience.
Ethics sit at the core of everything we do. We take a thoughtful, individualized approach to treatment, using modern technology such as advanced dental scanners and virtual treatment planning to ensure precision and comfort. But just as important as the technology is how people feel when they walk through our doors.
We treat our patients like family. One of the things I’m most proud of is that many of our patients return with siblings, parents, and friends because they felt genuinely cared for. That trust means everything to us.
As an LGBTQ-owned and operated practice, inclusivity is not a tagline—it’s a lived value. Everyone is welcome here, exactly as they are. Our goal is to create a space where people feel seen, respected, and supported while we guide them through their smile journey.

How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
The simplest way to support us is to come say hello. We love welcoming people into our space, whether they’re curious, exploring treatment, or just stopping by. If someone has a friend or family member considering orthodontic care, referrals mean the world to us.
Most importantly, people can show up as themselves and allow us to meet them where they are. We’re here to listen, to guide, and to support each person with care, patience, and intention, every step of the way.

Pricing:

• Comprehensive orthodontic treatment via Invisalign or traditional braces for as low as $4000

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.sinaiorthodontics.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sinaiorthodontics/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Sinai-Orthodontics/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SinaiOrthodontics
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/sinai-orthodontics-studio-city-2