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Finding a dental office that truly understands your child’s unique needs can feel overwhelming, especially when previous visits have been stressful or unproductive. Children with physical, developmental, sensory, or behavioral differences deserve a dental team that sees them as individuals, not diagnoses, and creates an environment where they can feel safe and comfortable from the moment they walk through the door.
At Pine Tree Pediatric Dentistry, we welcome children of all abilities to our Portland-area office, conveniently located for Tigard families. Our team provides thoughtful, individualized pediatric dental care for children with special needs by taking the time to learn about each child’s specific sensitivities, communication style, and comfort level before any dental work begins. We are proud to serve the Tigard community with the kind of patient, adaptive care that helps kids build positive associations with the dentist.
Every child who comes to our office receives a care plan tailored to their individual needs. We do not take a one-size-fits-all approach because we know that what helps one child feel at ease may not work for another. Our team considers sensory preferences, behavioral patterns, and medical histories to build a visit structure that sets your child up for success.
We offer a range of comfort tools and accommodations to help children feel relaxed during their appointments. These include weighted blankets for calming deep pressure, low lighting for children with sensory sensitivities, and the option to watch a movie during treatment. Our in-office dogs, Meyers and CJ, are also wonderful companions for children of all abilities. Meyers greets patients in the morning, and CJ is available during afternoon visits, providing a friendly and familiar presence that can ease anxiety.
One of the best ways to help your child feel comfortable before their appointment is to let them see the office ahead of time. We offer pre-visit tours so children can explore the space, meet our team, and become familiar with the sounds, sights, and feel of the dental environment at their own pace. For families who prefer to prepare at home, we also have social stories available that provide a picture walkthrough of what to expect during a visit.
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, approximately one in five children in the United States has a special health care need, and many of these children face barriers to receiving consistent dental care. Establishing a dental home early and building trust over time can make a meaningful difference in your child’s long-term oral health. We encourage Tigard parents to call our office with any questions before the first appointment so we can work together to create the best possible plan.
For some children, additional support may be needed to complete dental treatment safely and comfortably. We offer sedation dentistry options that range from nitrous oxide to general anesthesia, depending on the child’s needs and the complexity of the procedure. Nitrous oxide is often helpful for cooperative children who need a little extra relaxation during their visit.
In cases where in-office sedation is not the right fit, Dr. Tesha Waggoner maintains privileges at Providence St. Vincent Hospital, allowing her to provide dental treatment under general anesthesia in a hospital setting. This option gives Tigard families peace of mind knowing their child can receive the care they need in a medically supervised environment. Our team discusses all sedation options with parents ahead of time so you can make an informed decision about what is right for your child.
Our approach is built on patience, consistency, and communication. We believe that building trust with your child takes time, and we are happy to move at whatever pace feels right. During appointments, our team works directly with your child using age-appropriate language and gentle techniques to guide them through each step of their visit. Parents are welcome to be a “silent observer or helper” in the treatment room, and we also support children who are comfortable going back on their own for cleanings and treatment.
We understand that every family’s situation is different, and we are here to support you. Our first visit process is designed to be low-pressure and focused on getting to know your child. Whether your child has autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, sensory processing differences, or any other condition that requires adaptive care, we are here to help them build a positive relationship with dental health.
Families across Tigard trust Dr. Tesha Waggoner, DMD, for special needs dentistry that goes beyond clinical expertise — it’s rooted in patience, understanding, and a genuine commitment to every child’s comfort. Dr. T completed her pediatric dental training at Oregon Health and Science University in 2018 and holds hospital privileges at Providence St. Vincent Hospital for procedures requiring general anesthesia, giving families peace of mind for even the most complex cases. As an active member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, she stays at the forefront of specialized pediatric care. Outside the office, Dr. T enjoys life in Portland with her husband Tony, son Bruce, and their beloved labradoodles, CJ and Meyers.
Dr. Tesha Waggoner earned her doctorate of dental medicine at Oregon Health and Science University and completed her pediatric dentistry training there in 2018. She is a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, and she is committed to creating an inclusive, welcoming dental home for every child. Pine Tree Pediatric Dentistry is also proud to support organizations like the Down Syndrome Network, the Oregon Buddy Walk, and Smile Oregon for kids with craniofacial conditions.
If you are a Tigard parent looking for a dental team that will take the time to understand and support your child’s individual needs, we would love to hear from you. Contact our office to schedule a visit or to ask questions about how we can make your child’s dental experience a positive one.
