At Little Smiles of Washington, our locally owned pediatric dental office brings expert, compassionate care to families in and around Dardenne Prairie. Dr. Jaime Orrick, Dr. Corey Hastings, Dr. Matt Freihofer, and Dr. Carly Boudreaux understand how to guide kids through every stage of dental growth—from baby teeth to braces and beyond. Each dentist creates a friendly environment where children feel safe, heard, and excited to return.
Are you wondering what exactly a pediatric dentist in Dardenne Prairie does? Here are ten essential services at Little Smiles of Washington to keep young smiles strong and healthy.
1. Preventive Cleanings and Exams
Every healthy smile starts with regular cleanings. Our team gently removes plaque, checks for cavities, and tracks dental development. Your dentist, Dr. Orrick, Dr. Hastings, or Dr. Freihofer, will explain findings to parents during each exam and make personalized recommendations.
2. Fluoride Treatments
We strengthen enamel and lower cavity risk by applying fluoride during visits. This quick, painless step offers long-term protection and is especially important for growing teeth still learning to resist decay.
3. Dental Sealants
Our dentists apply dental sealants to the chewing surfaces of molars to block bacteria and food particles. This thin coating works like armor against cavities and lasts for years.
4. Cavity Fillings and Restorations
Cavities happen, even with the best brushing habits. When they do, we act fast. The doctor removes the decay and uses tooth-colored fillings that blend naturally. For more severe decay in baby teeth, we may place a crown to maintain function until the adult tooth erupts.
5. Digital X-Rays for Diagnosis
We use modern digital X-rays to capture what’s happening beneath the surface safely. These images help the doctor spot problems early and plan orthodontic or restorative care with precision.
6. Infant and Toddler Visits
We recommend a first dental visit by the child’s first birthday. Early visits build confidence and establish a healthy routine. At this stage, we offer:
- Teething support
- Oral development checks
- Nutritional tips
- Guidance on thumb sucking and pacifier use
7. Emergency Dental Care
When kids fall or face sudden pain, our office responds quickly. We will discuss every step and make care as comfortable as possible. We reserve time daily for urgent cases and treat emergencies such as:
- Knocked-out teeth
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Severe toothaches
- Injuries to the lips or gums
8. Sedation Options for Nervous Patients
Some children feel uneasy at the dentist. Before recommending any option, the dentist discusses all details with parents and answers every question. To help them stay relaxed, our team offers:
- Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)
- Oral conscious sedation
- General anesthesia in rare cases
9. For Kids with Support Needs
Our dentists provide personalized care for children with sensory sensitivities, developmental conditions, or medical complexities. The doctor listens closely and adapts the visit to meet each child’s unique needs.
10. Orthodontic Screenings
We monitor jaw and tooth alignment as part of regular checkups. We guide families toward orthodontic solutions if a child shows early signs of crowding or bite issues. Early detection leads to smoother treatment outcomes.
Build Healthy Smiles for Life With Your Trusted Pediatric Dentist in Dardenne Prairie
At Little Smiles of Washington, we build trust, ease fears, and support families through lifelong dental health. Our locally owned practice in Daredenne Prairie, Missouri, treats each child like family and makes every visit positive. 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 Dardenne Prairie you choose should know how to keep kids smiling and healthy.