Meet Our Doctors

Dentist - Dr. Steven E. Ripple, D.D.S.

Doctor Ripple
Dr. Steven Ripple has been practicing pediatric dentistry since 1988. He is a New Orleans native and a graduate of Jesuit High School.  He attended Louisiana State University for his undergraduate degree and continued there in the LSU School of Dentistry, where he earned his Doctorate of Dental Surgery degree.  He also completed a Pediatric Dental Residency program at the University of Kentucky with extensive training in anesthesia, as well as treating medically compromised, handicapped and special needs children.

While at LSU, Dr. Ripple was the captain of the LSU Tiger Football Team and was awarded the Chancellor’s Award for highest scholastic average during his career and the Butch Duhe Memorial Award for the senior who typified all American youth.  During dental school, he continued to excel and was the recipient of the Academy of Operative Dentistry Award for outstanding achievement and also the American Society of Dentistry for Children’s Award for outstanding interest and proficiency in dentistry for children.  He also served as Student Body President for two years.

Dr. Ripple and his wife, Jan Meador, are the parents of three children and proud grandparents of nine grandchildren.

Orthodontist - Dr. Matthew Leftwich, D.D.S., M.S.

Dr. Matt

Dr. Matthew Leftwich, a New Orleans native, graduated from Ridgewood Preparatory School in Metairie.  He pursued his Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology from the University of New Orleans.  He received his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from LSU School of Dentistry and graduated in the top 10% of his dental class.  While at LSUSD, he received a scholarship from the LSU Board of Regents and was awarded the respected Baldridge Scholarship.  He was inducted into the C. Edmund Kells Honor Society and was part of the Delta Sigma Delta Dental Society.

In order to be an orthodontic specialist, dentists must be accepted into an accredited residency program of at least two or more years after completing dental school.  Dr. Leftwich furthered his education by completing an orthodontic residency program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.  During his residency, he also received a Master’s of Science Degree in Dentistry.

Being an orthodontist allows Dr. Leftwich the unique opportunity to treat a variety of dental problems, and help to positively influence his patient's self-esteem.  His goal is to maintain a fun, friendly environment where patients feel comfortable and respected.  Dr. Leftwich has a genuine love for people and enjoys making a positive difference in his patient's smiles and also their lives.

 

Dr. John Sisney, M.D.

Diplomate of the American Board of Anesthesiology
Board Certified Pediatric Anesthesiologist

Dr John Sisney

Dr. John Sisney is a true Louisianian who was born and raised in the New Orleans area.  He attended the best undergraduate school in the SEC, LSU (Geaux Tigers), before leaving the US to complete his medical degree across the world in Australia at the University of Queensland in Brisbane.

After his adventures abroad, he returned closer to home and completed his Anesthesiology residency at the University of Alabama in Birmingham. Most recently, he finished a pediatric fellowship at Nationwide Children’s in Columbus, OH.  Dr. Sisney had his first exposure to outpatient pediatric dentistry while moonlighting independently in local dental offices during that time.

Now after spending many of his recent years away from his hometown, John is excited to finally be back in Louisiana with both his wife and golden retriever, Sir Jasper.  He enjoys traveling, playing golf, and fishing in his free time.  Both he and his wife are extremely excited to be welcoming their first child into the family later this year.

Dr. Sisney comes to our Prairieville location once a month for IV Sedations.  

Dentist - Dr. Kaede Collette , D.D.S

Dr. Kaede Collette

Born and raised in Henderson, Louisiana, Dr. Kaede Collette became interested in health care at a young age, driven by his desire to help people achieve and maintain healthy lifestyles. His passion for patient care and working with his hands found harmony within dentistry and drove him to pursue it as a career. After graduating from Teurlings High School, he attended the University of Louisiana at Lafayette to earn his Bachelor of Science in Biology. He continued his education at the LSU School of Dentistry, graduating with a Doctorate of Dental Surgery in 2024.

Through experiences volunteering with the Muscular Dystrophy Association and in the LSU Pediatric Clinic , Dr. Kaede developed a profound passion for caring for children and young adults. Working with each patient to achieve their healthiest self as they develop into adults is what motivates him at each visit. As a part of your pediatric dental team, Dr. Kaede hopes to instill proper dental habits in children and young adults to set the foundation for lifelong oral health.

Patient-centered care is the core of Dr. Kaede’s practice philosophy. He understands that each patient is unique and deserves personalized attention. Dr. Kaede listens to his patients’ concerns to ensure they feel comfortable throughout their dental experience. He is committed to creating a warm and welcoming environment where families can trust his expertise and feel confident in their treatment.

Beyond dentistry, Dr. Collette enjoys the outdoors. Immersing himself in activities like camping, biking, fishing, and photography. And on rainy days he can be found enjoying modern music production and cooking. But above all, he enjoys having new experiences with his family and friends.

Smile Stars Pediatric Dentistry

  • Baton Rouge Location - 10522 S. Glenstone Pl., Baton Rouge, LA 70810 Phone: 225-769-5377 Fax: 225-769-7910
  • Prairieville Location - 15097 Hwy. 73, Prairieville, LA 70769 Phone: 225-313-4245

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