Learn more about pain-free shots at Pine Tree Pediatric Dentistry.
Located in SW Portland, Pine Tree Pediatric Dentistry is a family-centered dental practice that brings personalized care to fit the unique needs of each child and their families
We are dedicated to your child’s smile. Whatever they may need, we are here to ensure that the dentist is not a place to be feared or avoided.
Drs. Tesha Waggoner and Audrey Mikkelson are dedicated to providing your child with a relaxing and comforting experience at the dentist. As moms ourselves, we have put endless thought and care into making our dental office a place your child won’t fear or dread, but look forward to visiting!
We help your child to develop positive dental habits at a young age, keeping their teeth strong and healthy as they grow! We see patients as early as 6 months after their first baby tooth, until they’re old enough to see their adult dentist. No matter the age, we work directly with your child to develop the best care plan for them to keep their smile bright and healthy!
We are so excited to introduce our patients and familes to Dr. Mikkelson, who will begin working part-time at Pine Tree on Mondays. Dr. Mikkelson is a board-certified pediatric dentist and mom with a wealth of knowledge and experience. Click below to learn more about her!
Located in SW Portland, Pine Tree Pediatric Dentistry is a family-centered dental practice that brings personalized care to fit the unique needs of each child and their families.
We help your child to develop positive dental habits at a young age, keeping their teeth strong and healthy as they grow! We see patients as early as 6 months after their first baby tooth, until they’re old enough to see their adult dentist. No matter the age, we work directly with your child to develop the best care plan for them to keep their smile bright and healthy!
First visits to the dentist should be positive experiences that set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles! At Pine Tree Pediatric Dentistry, we’ve created a warm, child-friendly environment where even our youngest patients feel at ease.
Dr. Tesha and Dr. Audrey understand that a child’s first dental experience shapes their future attitude toward dental care. That’s why we take extra steps to ensure comfort:
Our office is designed with children in mind – bright colors, fun activities, and a welcoming atmosphere
Meyers, our friendly in-office dog, helps nervous children feel calm and secure
We offer “show-tell-do” introductions to dental tools, letting children touch and explore before treatment
Weighted blankets, low lighting options, and entertainment are available for anxious children
For children with special needs, we provide customized accommodations to ensure a positive experience
A little preparation goes a long way! Here are simple ways to help your child feel ready:
Talk positively about the dentist – describe it as a place where friendly doctors help keep teeth strong and healthy
Read children’s books about dental visits (we’re happy to recommend some favorites!)
Avoid using words like “hurt,” “pain,” or “shot” when discussing the appointment
For anxious children, consider scheduling a pre-visit office tour
Let your child bring a comfort item like a stuffed animal or blanket
Remember, we’re partners in your child’s dental health journey! Questions before your visit? Reach out to us via phone at (503) 292-9274, email, or through our contact form. We’re here to make your family’s dental experience exceptional!
We recommend scheduling your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears. Early visits help establish a positive relationship with dental care and allow us to monitor development from the beginning.
Pediatric dentists receive 2-3 years of specialized training beyond dental school focused exclusively on children’s dental health, development, and psychology. We’re equipped with child-sized tools and create environments specifically designed to make children comfortable.
Keep explanations positive and simple. Avoid words like “shot,” “pain,” or “hurt.” Instead, tell them our friendly team will count and clean their teeth, take pictures, and help keep their smile healthy and bright.
Absolutely! Baby teeth hold space for permanent teeth, help with proper speech development, and allow for good nutrition through proper chewing. Healthy baby teeth set the foundation for a lifetime of good dental health.
Our compassionate team specializes in making dental visits comfortable for even the most anxious children. We use gentle techniques, age-appropriate explanations, and a warm approach that helps transform dental anxiety into positive experiences.
