Meet Dr. James
Dr. Laji James believes that dentistry for the infant, child, adolescent, and those with special healthcare needs should be focused on the prevention of dental disease. This is achieved through education about oral hygiene and nutrition, and a coordinated approach between families and the dental team.
Dr. James and our team make dental visits positive experiences for youngsters with a unique combination of patience, fun, and teaching. In this way, we help smiles grow big and strong!
Education
Dr. Laji James graduated from Bellaire High School magna cum laude. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Trinity University in San Antonio and again graduated magna cum laude. Dr. James obtained his dental degree and specialty training in pediatric dentistry from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio graduating in the top of his class, cum laude, and earned several awards and scholarships.
Dr. James completed a two-year residency in pediatric dentistry after graduating from dental school. His training included externships at Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children, Children’s Medical Center Dallas, and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. Dr. James also received anesthesiology training at University Hospital in San Antonio, as well as hematology and pediatric medicine at Christus Santa Rosa Hospital in San Antonio.
Service
Dr. James is an official speaker for the American Dental Association’s Success program. He lectures to dental students at various schools around the country. He has chaired community outreach programs such as Give Kids a Smile Day at the University of Texas Dental School. Dr. James has made several mission trips to Mexico with the Christian Medical and Dental Society and volunteered for the Texas Mission of Mercy and Veterans Smile Day events.
Dr. James is an official spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. He has served as president of the Houston Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and president of the Greater Houston Dental Society. He has served on the board of directors for both the Greater Houston Dental Society and the Texas Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Additionally, Dr. James served on the Board of Directors for the Texas Dental Association which entails serving roles as Director, Senior Director, and Vice President.
Recognition
Dr. James enjoyed conducting dental research as a student and resident and has published articles in several scientific journals. For two consecutive years, he won first place at the annual Research Science Symposium at the University of Texas Health Science Center. While at UT, he was awarded the Pierre Fauchard Academy Dental Scholarship Award, Franklin M. Dolwick Oral Surgery Scholarship, ASDA Award of Excellence, UTHSCSA Alumni Scholarship, and American Society of Dentistry for Children Award.
Dr. James has been recognized in numerous publications such as H Texas Magazine, Houstonia Magazine, America’s Top Dentists, and Texas Monthly’s Super Dentists as one of the outstanding pediatric dentists in the state. He stays up to date on the newest developments in pediatric dentistry to offer multiple options to parents on how to treat their children.
Beyond the Practice
Dr. James and his wife Liz have two children, Sophia and Nathan, as well as a miniature Australian Shepherd named Perry and a COVID rescue dog named Peanut.
When he’s not working, you can probably run into Dr. James at the nearest HEB. He enjoys cooking, exercising, reading, music, and travel, but most importantly, spending time with family and friends.
