Exploring Life & Business with Houda Hamze of El Segundo Pediatric Dentistry

Today we’d like to introduce you to Houda Hamze.

Hi Houda, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My name is Houda Hamze, and I’m the second oldest of seven children. Growing up in a big family naturally sparked my love for caring for others, especially kids. My roots are a blend of South African and Lebanese heritage—my mom is from South Africa, and my dad is from Lebanon. I spent part of my childhood living in Lebanon before settling in the Bay Area, where I spent most of my formative years. I went on to attend Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, where I met my husband. After college, I worked at a mental health center for children, an experience that deepened my commitment to working with young people. I then pursued dentistry at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, where I also served as the student director for a dental clinic serving homeless and runaway teens. I completed my pediatric dental residency at NYU Langone Health and became a board-certified pediatric dentist.

For the past several years, I’ve worked as an associate pediatric dentist, and recently, I opened my own practice—a dream I’ve worked toward for many years. We decided to make the office a true family business, and my husband now helps me run the practice. Today, we live in the South Bay with our four wonderful children, and I feel incredibly grateful to serve this vibrant and welcoming community.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The journey to where I am today hasn’t been without its challenges. Getting into dental school is incredibly competitive and requires years of dedication, discipline, and sacrifice. I worked hard to get there, and the effort didn’t stop once I was accepted. In fact, while completing my pediatric dental residency, I had my first child—balancing the demands of new motherhood with the intensity of residency was one of the most difficult things I’ve ever done.

Opening my own practice came with a whole new set of challenges. My office was a complete tear-down and rebuild, and the construction process was full of unexpected delays and hiccups that made the buildout much longer than anticipated. Starting a new practice from the ground up is no small task, especially when you’re also learning how to run a business for the first time. From navigating permits and equipment to managing budgets and marketing, there was (and still is) a steep learning curve.

By the time we were finally ready to open, I was eight months pregnant with my fourth child. We opened the doors anyway—because the dream was worth it. Just two months later, I gave birth and we closed the office for only two weeks. When we reopened, my husband and I cared for our newborn between patients, making it work however we could.

Even now, one of the biggest ongoing challenges is building and maintaining a consistent, high-quality team. I’m looking for staff who genuinely want to be part of a family-run business and grow with us—people who bring a positive attitude, strong work ethic, and a commitment to caring for children. Despite all the ups and downs, the support from the El Segundo community has been incredible. It’s been a wild ride, but I’m proud of how far we’ve come and excited for what’s ahead.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about El Segundo Pediatric Dentistry?
At El Segundo Pediatric Dentistry, I’m passionate about creating positive, personalized dental experiences. As a board-certified pediatric dentist and a mom, I understand that parents want kindness, patience, and connection in their child’s dentist. Our fun-filled practice is designed with kids in mind to make every visit fun, welcoming, and comfortable. From the playful decor to the fun, gentle, encouraging approach we take with every child, our goal is to help young patients feel at ease and even excited to come back.

I’m actively involved in every aspect of care—from greeting small patients and tailoring treatments just for them, to educating families on early oral health and preventive techniques. We see children from as early as a few days after birth and beyond, offering a full range of pediatric dental services. We also provide behavior guidance and minimally invasive options to ensure each child receives the most comfortable care possible.

It’s also deeply important to me to be an active, contributing part of the El Segundo community. I don’t just work here—I feel honored to support the health and happiness of local families. And as a mom myself, I truly understand the weight and importance of trusting someone else with your child’s health. I approach my work with compassion and empathy, always understanding that every family is unique and carries its own set of challenges. Whether it’s a nervous child, a parent navigating a tough season, or a family juggling a busy schedule, I take the time to listen and tailor care with sensitivity and respect.

At the heart of my work is the belief that relationships matter. By building trust and creating a supportive, family-centered environment, we help kids grow up with confidence in the dental chair.

What do you like and dislike about the city?
Likes: Beautiful, everything you could need is local, a quick drive to the mountains, people are friendly

dislikes: traffic, congestion

Pricing:

• We accept most insurances and have an in house membership plan

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.elsegundopediatricdentistry.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elsegundopediatricdentistry/#
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560652751766
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@elsegundopedsdentist

Image Credits
All Images (except 1): Studio 8e8

Exception (family photo): Paul Sargeant