At Little Smiles of Washington, Dr. Corey Hastings, Dr. Matt Freihofer, and Dr. Jaime Orrick lead our locally owned pediatric dental practice with compassion, expertise, and a commitment to children’s health. Our team understands best practices for a pediatric dentist in Washington and how to care for young smiles, from a baby’s first tooth to a teenager’s final orthodontic appointment. We create a positive, stress-free environment, encouraging kids to love visiting the dentist.
Parents often ask what services a pediatric dentist provides. Little Smiles of Washington offers comprehensive dental care tailored to children’s needs. From preventive cleanings to advanced treatments, we guide every patient through each stage of oral development with expert care.
Preventive Dental Care
The foundation of pediatric dentistry starts with prevention. We focus on helping children avoid dental problems before they begin. Our preventive services include:
- Routine cleanings and exams: Every child receives a gentle yet thorough cleaning. Our dental team checks for cavities, gum health, and developmental milestones.
- Fluoride treatments: We apply fluoride to strengthen enamel and help reduce the risk of tooth decay.
- Dental sealants: Our dentists use thin, protective coatings to shield back teeth from food and bacteria.
- Oral hygiene education: We teach children how to brush and floss correctly and encourage lifelong healthy habits.
Cavity Treatment and Fillings
Despite the best care, cavities still happen. Our dentists quickly restore the tooth and stop further damage when decay occurs. Each dentist uses kid-friendly language and a calm approach to ensure children remain relaxed during treatment. We offer:
- Tooth-colored fillings: These fillings blend with natural enamel, providing strong, discreet protection.
- Crowns for baby teeth: If a primary tooth suffers significant decay, we place a crown to preserve its function until the adult tooth erupts.
- Pulp therapy: For deeper infections, the doctor may perform a pulpotomy to remove affected tissue and save the tooth.
Digital X-Rays and Diagnosis
Technology plays a key role in accurate diagnosis. We use digital X-rays to minimize radiation and deliver fast, clear images, allowing dentists to spot issues early and make informed treatment decisions. Our diagnostic services support:
- Cavity detection
- Monitoring jaw growth
- Planning for orthodontics
- Evaluating injury or infection
Infant and Toddler Dental Visits
Our doctors recommend scheduling a baby’s first dental appointment by age one. Early visits help children get comfortable in a dental setting and allow us to monitor tooth development from the start. The dentist helps parents create routines that support oral health in babies and toddlers, and we provide:
- Gentle exams
- Teething advice
- Nutritional guidance
- Tips on pacifier use and thumb sucking
Emergency Dental Care
Accidents happen. When a child chips a tooth or experiences pain, we act fast.
We reserve time in our schedule for same-day care and walk families through every step of emergency treatment. Our team handles dental emergencies with urgency and care. Common emergencies we treat include:
- Knocked-out teeth
- Broken or chipped teeth
- Severe toothaches
- Soft tissue injuries
Sedation Dentistry for Kids
Some children feel anxious during dental procedures. Our dentists offer safe sedation options that help children stay calm and comfortable. Before recommending sedation, the doctor consults with the family, reviews medical history, and explains all options clearly. We provide:
- Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)
- Oral conscious sedation
General anesthesia (in special cases)
Support Needs Dentistry
Children with unique health concerns require thoughtful care. We customize visits for children with sensory challenges, medical conditions, or developmental delays. Our dentists take extra time to listen and adjust our techniques to meet every child’s needs.
Pediatric Dentist in Washington
At Little Smiles of Washington, we do more than treat teeth. We build trust, ease anxiety, and give families the tools to support lifelong dental health. Our locally owned practice in Washington, Missouri, focuses on patient comfort and prevention first. We treat each child like family and make every visit a positive one. Additionally, we offer flexible financing through CareCredit to make your visits less stressful.Contact us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Orrick, Dr. Hastings, or Dr. Freihofer. The pediatric dentist in Washington you choose should know how to keep kids smiling confidently, and we’re ready to help.