Learn more about pain-free shots at Pine Tree Pediatric Dentistry.
Finding the right dental care for a child with unique needs is one of the most important things a parent can do, and it can also feel like one of the most daunting. Children with autism, Down syndrome, ADHD, sensory processing differences, or other developmental conditions deserve a dental experience built around them, not one they are expected to simply endure. The right environment, the right team, and a thoughtful approach change everything.
At Pine Tree Pediatric Dentistry, we have built our practice from the ground up to welcome every child, including those who need a little extra care and consideration. Families throughout Washington County, including those traveling from Forest Grove, trust us to provide compassionate, individualized special needs pediatric dental care. Dr. Tesha Waggoner completed her pediatric specialty training at OHSU and holds memberships in the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, bringing focused knowledge to every child she treats.
Children with sensory sensitivities or medical anxiety need more than a welcoming front desk. They need an office where every detail has been considered with their comfort in mind. We offer adjustable lighting to reduce overstimulation, weighted blankets during treatment, and the option to watch a movie while in the chair, so kids have something familiar and calming to focus on.
Our in-office dog, Meyers, is a cherished member of our team and has a wonderful way with children of all abilities. Many kids who arrive feeling unsure leave with a grin, and Meyers deserves a lot of the credit. Every element of our dental services has been designed to reduce fear and build trust.
We encourage parents to share social stories with their children before coming in. These visual walkthroughs of our office help children know exactly what to expect, which is especially helpful for kids who benefit from predictability and routine. Arriving with a mental picture of the space can make a big difference.
During the appointment itself, parents are welcomed as “silent observers or helpers.” We have found that children often build more confidence and ease when they can connect with their care team directly, and our team uses its own approaches to keep kids calm and comfortable throughout the visit.
Every appointment at Pine Tree Pediatric Dentistry is tailored to the child in front of us. We offer a full range of pediatric dental services and regularly work with children across a wide variety of diagnoses and support needs. For children who need additional support relaxing during treatment, we provide sedation dentistry options that make it possible for even the most anxious patients to receive the care they need.
Our team also takes an occupational therapy-informed and myofunctional therapy approach for children with oral habits. Rather than thumbguards, we offer the Bluegrass appliance, a discreet in-mouth device that works best alongside occupational and myofunctional therapy support. This reflects our commitment to looking at the whole child, not just a single concern.
Here are some of the accommodations we regularly provide:
No two children are the same, and we adapt our care to meet each one where they are.
Pine Tree Pediatric Dentistry is proud to serve families from across the region, including those who travel from Forest Grove, Cornelius, and surrounding Washington County communities. Our office is conveniently located just off the freeway in Beaverton, making the drive manageable for families coming from farther west. We are deeply invested in the communities we serve, and we participate every year in the Down Syndrome Network Oregon Buddy Walk and support Smile Oregon, an organization dedicated to children with craniofacial conditions.
We also accept Delta Dental Premier, OHP Medicaid, and CareOregon, and our team is happy to discuss insurance and financing options when you reach out.
Dr. Tesha Waggoner, DMD, graduated from Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) in 2014 and completed her pediatric dental training at OHSU in 2018. She maintains privileges at Providence St. Vincent Hospital for cases requiring general anesthesia. Dr. T lives in Portland with her husband Tony, her son Bruce, and their two labradoodles, CJ and Meyers.
She is an active member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and other professional organizations.
Pine Tree Pediatric Dentistry is a practice grounded in the belief that every child deserves to feel safe and cared for at the dentist. Dr. Tesha Waggoner earned her doctorate of dental medicine at OHSU and completed her pediatric specialty training there as well. She holds hospital privileges at Providence St. Vincent Hospital and Legacy Randall Hospital, so your child’s care is supported beyond our office when it matters most.
If you are searching for a special needs pediatric dentist serving the Forest Grove area, we would love to meet your family. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward dental care your child can feel good about.
