Meet The Doctors


Emil J. Simanian, D.D.S., M.S.

Born and raised in Los Angeles, California, Dr. Emil Simanian attended the University of California, Los Angeles, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics. He continued his education at the UCLA School of Dentistry, where he earned his Master of Science degree in Oral Biology. After six years at UCLA, Dr. Emil moved across town and matriculated into the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry at the University of Southern California, where he earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. 

Dr. Emil has an extensive background in the dental field. Having grown up shadowing his mother, Dr. Mitra E. Simanian, his educational background at UCLA and USC combined to give him a unique approach when it comes to educating and treating his patients. He uses the most up-to-date dental techniques taught by some of the best dental practitioners in the world. His emphasis is on restorative dentistry, and he is constantly devoting time to learn the newest advancements in the field of dentistry. “Dentistry is not just about drilling and filling. It’s critical to look at the big picture to try to understand how improving oral health can ultimately help improve our patient’s overall health. My goal as a practitioner is to help improve my patients lives, and it starts with good oral hygiene habits and regular dental check-ups”. 


Mitra E. Simanian, D.D.S., M.P.H.

Dr. Mitra E. Simanian earned her Bachelor of Science degree in the field of Microbiology and Immunology from the University of California, Los Angeles in 1985. She continued her education at the UCLA School of Dentistry by completing her Doctorate in Dental Surgery in 1996, and earned her Master of Public Health degree from the UCLA School of Public Health in 2023. Dr. Mitra E. Simanian is currently full-time faculty at the UCLA School of Dentistry, where she serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor and Group Practice Director. 

Dr. Mitra Simanian had been a part of the Santa Clarita community since 2006, and diligently practiced dentistry for over 25 years until her retirement from private practice.  She currently serves as a mentor and consultant to Dr. Emil Simanian.


Rachel Lee, D.D.S., M.S., M.B.A.

Growing up in Pasadena, Dr. Rachel Lee attended the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and received a Bachelor of Science in Molecular, Cell, & Developmental Biology. Dr. Lee continued her study at UCLA for a Doctorate of Dental Surgery with a Master of Science in Oral Biology. She was the only graduate in her class, receiving the dual degree during her dental education. Dr. Lee pursued her orthodontic training at Roseman University of Health Sciences in Henderson, Nevada, where she received her certificate in Orthodontics with a Master in Business Administration. 

Dr. Lee’s passion is to provide the highest standard of care to create healthy, beautiful smile. She is thrilled to be a part of Golden Oak Dental and committed to provide good orthodontic experiences for patients in all ages. 

Dr. Rachel Lee is a member of American Association of Orthodontists, Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontist, and American Dental Association. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, traveling, and playing with her puppy!


Rafi Rafiee, D.D.S., M.S.

Rafi Rafiee received his Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) degree in 2006 from the University of Southern California School of Dentistry. Since that time he has written several dental research articles in contemporary journals, presented advanced cases in dental seminars, and taught advanced grafting to dentists. Dr Rafiee performed surgical dental procedures in the Central California Veterans Hospital and Fresno Community Hospital. He then complemented this training by returning to USC to finish a second residency, this time in periodontics and implant dentistry. There he became a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology by concentrating in treating periodontal disease and placing dental implants while completing a Masters Degree in cranio facial biology.