Pediatric dentist near me—those words might pop into your head when you’re scrambling to find the right dental care for your child.
It’s a big decision! You want someone skilled, gentle, and great with kids. If you’re in Gresham, OR, you’re in luck. Premier Dentistry is here to make that choice easy. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to look for in a pediatric dentist, why we stand out, the services we offer, and how to get your child ready for their first visit. Let’s dive in!
Key Takeaways
- Look for a pediatric dentist with special training and kid-friendly skills.
- Premier Dentistry brings expertise and a fun environment for kids in Gresham.
- We offer check-ups, cleanings, sealants, and more to keep smiles bright.
- Simple prep tips can turn your child’s first visit into a breeze.
What to Look for in a Pediatric Dentist
Choosing a pediatric dentist isn’t like picking a random name off a list. You need someone who gets kids and their unique needs. Here’s what to keep an eye out for:
Specialized Training
Pediatric dentists aren’t just regular dentists. They go through extra schooling—two to three years after dental school—focused on kids. They learn about child growth, behavior, and how to handle things like teething or early cavities. This training makes them pros at keeping your child comfortable.
Experience with Kids
Ever try explaining something complicated to a toddler? It’s an art! A dentist with lots of experience knows how to talk to kids. They might say, “Let’s count your teeth!” instead of diving into technical stuff. Look for someone who’s worked with children plenty—it shows in how calm your child stays.
A Kid-Friendly Space
Imagine walking into a cold, sterile office. Scary, right? Now picture a place with bright walls, toys, and a play area. That’s what you want. A welcoming vibe helps kids relax. Some offices even have TVs or prizes to make it fun.
Great Reviews
What do other parents say? Check online reviews or ask around. If families rave about a dentist’s patience or how their kids love going, that’s a green flag. Happy parents mean happy kids.
Why Choose Premier Dentistry for Your Child’s Dental Care
At Premier Dentistry, we’re not just another dental clinic. We’re your local experts in Gresham, OR, ready to give your child top-notch care. Here’s why we’re the best pick when you search “pediatric dentist near me.”
Our Team Rocks
At Premier Dentistry, our team is all about creating happy, healthy smiles for your kids. Our dentists bring years of experience and a passion for making dental visits fun. Meet the stars of our practice:
Dr. Kevin Shim
Grew up in Santa Rosa, California, and has called Portland home for over a decade. He earned his Bachelor of Science in biochemistry from Pacific Union College and his Doctor of Dental Surgery from Loma Linda University.
In 2005, Dr. Shim founded Premier Dentistry with a vision of top-notch oral care for everyone. He and his team offer everything from general dentistry to oral surgery, implants, endodontics, full mouth reconstruction, and dentures. His mission? To make sure every patient walks out with a healthy mouth and a big smile.
Dr. Jodi Pak
Joined Premier Dentistry in 2020 after practicing in Pasadena, California, and settling in Oregon in 2008. She’s excited to be part of a team that focuses on integrated, multidisciplinary treatment plans—think comprehensive dental care paired with facial rejuvenation. Dr. Pak lives in Happy Valley with her family and is big on giving back, volunteering at free clinics around Portland. In her spare time, she’s into gardening, cooking, gaming, and exploring the outdoors.
A Space Kids Love
Our office at 23479 SE Stark St #102, Gresham, OR 97030, is built for kids. The waiting room has a play corner with toys and books. Treatment rooms? They’ve got TVs with cartoons. After a visit, your child picks a prize from our treasure chest. It’s like a mini adventure!
Gresham Families Trust Us
As a suburban hub, Gresham is full of families like yours. We get it—you want quality care close to home. Parents here love us. Sarah M. says, “Dr. Smith is amazing. My kids actually ask when they can go back!” John D. adds, “The staff is so patient. My son’s first visit was a hit.”
Ready to see the difference? Call us at (503) 667-1184 to book a visit.
Our Pediatric Dental Services
We’ve got everything your child needs to keep their teeth healthy. Here’s a rundown of what we offer:
Regular Check-Ups and Cleanings
Every six months, bring your child in. We’ll check their teeth, clean off plaque, and spot any trouble early. It’s quick and keeps smiles shining.
Fluoride Treatments
Think of fluoride as a shield for teeth. We apply it fast—it’s like painting on protection against cavities. It’s safe and super effective.
Dental Sealants
These are like raincoats for back teeth. We brush on a thin layer to block out food and germs. It’s painless and cuts cavity risk way down.
Fillings and Restorations
Cavities happen. We fix them with fillings that match your child’s teeth. If a tooth’s chipped, we can restore it too. No fuss, just healthy teeth.
Orthodontic Evaluations
Worried about crooked teeth? We’ll check if braces might help down the road. Catching it early saves time later.
Emergency Dental Care
Knocked-out tooth? Sudden pain? We’re here. Call us right away for fast help.
Prices depend on what your child needs. For exact costs, call our office. Want to know more? Check our services page.
The Importance of Pediatric Dental Care
Why bother with a pediatric dentist? Kids’ teeth matter more than you might think. Tooth decay is the top chronic disease in children—over 40% of kids have it by kindergarten, says the CDC. Early visits stop problems before they grow. Plus, good habits now mean fewer dental woes later. A happy first visit sets your child up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Common Pediatric Dental Issues We Handle
Kids face some unique dental challenges. Here’s how we help:
Teething Troubles
Babies teething? It’s rough. We give you tips—like cold washcloths—to ease the discomfort. No need to stress.
Thumb-Sucking
If your child won’t quit sucking their thumb, it might shift their teeth. We’ve got gentle ways to help them stop before it’s a big deal.
Tooth Decay
Even baby teeth can rot. We use sealants and fluoride to fight it. If decay sneaks in, our fillings fix it fast.
Tips for Preparing Your Child for Their First Dental Visit
First visits can feel big—for you and your child. Make it smooth with these steps:
Talk It Up
Keep it positive. Say, “The dentist will make your teeth sparkle!” Skip words like “hurt” or “shot.” Keep it light.
Read Together
Grab a book like The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist. It shows kids what’s coming in a fun way. Read it a few times before the day.
Play Pretend
Be the dentist. Use a toothbrush to “check” their teeth. Let them try it on you or a toy. It’s practice that feels like a game.
Pack Comfort
A stuffed animal or blanket can calm nerves. Let them hold it during the visit.
Time It Right
Book a morning slot when they’re fresh, not cranky from a long day. A full belly helps too.
How to Keep Your Child’s Teeth Healthy at Home
Between visits, you’re the dental MVP. Here’s how to shine:
- Brush Twice: Two minutes, morning and night. Use a pea-sized dab of toothpaste.
- Floss Daily: Start when teeth touch. It’s tricky but worth it.
- Limit Sugar: Candy and juice can harm teeth. Water’s your friend.
- Check In: Peek at their teeth. Spot issues? Call us.
Why Gresham Parents Pick Us
Gresham’s a family town. You’ve got parks, schools, and a tight-knit vibe. You deserve a pediatric dentist who fits that. At Premier Dentistry, we’re part of the community. We know local families want care that’s skilled yet cozy. That’s us. Whether you’re near Stark Street or out by the parks, we’re your go-to at 23479 SE Stark St #102. Get a call today!
Conclusion
Your child’s smile deserves the best. Searching “pediatric dentist near me” brought you here for a reason. Premier Dentistry in Gresham, OR, offers expert care, a kid-loving team, and a place your child will enjoy. From check-ups to emergencies, we’ve got you covered. Don’t wait—healthy teeth start now. Call us at (503) 667-1184 or visit our website to schedule an appointment. Let’s make dental visits a win for your family!
Top 5 Frequently Asked Questions
What age should my child first visit the dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry says age one—or when that first tooth pops out. It’s early, but it sets the stage for healthy teeth.
How often should my child see the dentist?
Every six months is the sweet spot for most kids. If we spot something, we might tweak that. Regular visits keep trouble away.
What if my child is scared of the dentist?
Totally normal! We’re pros at calming fears with gentle chats and fun distractions. Prep them with our tips, and we’ll handle the rest.
Do you offer sedation for kids?
Yes, for big treatments or super nervous kids. We’ll talk it over with you first to find what’s best. Safety’s our priority.
What insurance do you take?
Most major plans work with us. Call (503) 667-1184 to check yours. We’ll sort it out for you.