Business Details
28 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Expert Pediatric Dental Care for Happy, Healthy Kids
At Big Grins, our team of board-certified pediatric dentists has been dedicated to creating positive, personalized dental experiences for children since 1998. Our child-centric approach ensures every visitfrom toddlers to teensis fun and stress-free, with tailored services that meet the unique needs of each child. Our state-of-the-art facility in Fort Collins includes in-house treatment options and a child-friendly playroom, offering a seamless experience for families.We emphasize education, preventive care, and community involvement, ensuring dental visits are both informative and enjoyable. Our team, led by Dr. Rachel Ecker and Dr. Marisa Werger, combines expertise with a deep understanding of child development, providing compassionate care that prioritizes the emotional and psychological needs of every child.
Services
Infant Care
Preventative Dentistry
Restorative Dentistry
Hospital Dentistry
Special Needs Dentistry
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- We offer over 25 years of experience in pediatric dentistry since 1998.
- Our child-centric approach ensures stress-free visits tailored to each child's needs.
- We provide state-of-the-art facilities with in-house treatments and a playroom.
- We offer minimal sedation options approved by parents for child comfort.
- Our team includes board-certified pediatric dentists with specialized training.
Associations and certifications
- Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
What people say
Playroom is almost an arcade
Great at putting her at ease
X-rays done for the first time
Child-friendly atmosphere
Personalized approach
Services
Infant Care
Big Grins Pediatric Dentistry provides specialized infant dental care to establish healthy oral habits from an early age. Our services include early oral assessments, parental education on hygiene practices, and addressing lip and tongue ties. We focus on creating a positive foundation for lifelong dental health through gentle, personalized care tailored to infants and toddlers.
Preventative Dentistry
Our preventative dentistry services include professional cleanings, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants to protect children's teeth from decay. Regular check-ups every six months help detect issues early, ensuring proactive care that supports long-term oral health. We educate families on effective home care routines to maintain strong, healthy smiles.
Restorative Dentistry
Restorative dentistry at Big Grins addresses dental issues such as cavities and damaged teeth using compassionate, child-friendly techniques. Services include cosmetic dental crowns, fillings, and sedation options to ensure comfort. Our goal is to restore smiles efficiently while minimizing anxiety and promoting positive dental experiences for young patients.
Hospital Dentistry
Hospital dentistry caters to children requiring extensive procedures under general anesthesia, including those with complex needs or behavioral challenges. Our team performs these treatments safely in a hospital setting, ensuring comprehensive care with minimal stress. This approach allows for effective management of multiple dental issues in a single visit while prioritizing patient comfort.
Special Needs Dentistry
Big Grins offers specialized dental care for children with special needs, including autism, Down syndrome, and other conditions. Our team provides tailored treatments in a supportive environment, with dedicated appointment times and a gentle approach to accommodate individual requirements. We prioritize patient comfort, accessibility, and education to ensure optimal oral health outcomes for every child.
People
Dr. Rachel Ecker
Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Rachel Ecker, a board-certified pediatric dentist and Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, specializes in child development and nutrition-based dental care. With experience from Miami Children's Hospital and research collaborations, she brings expertise in special needs dentistry. Dr. Ecker is passionate about community service and founded Locally Haiti, focusing on children's health initiatives.
Dr. Marisa Werger
Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Marisa Werger, a graduate of Harvard School of Dental Medicine, completed her residency at Children's National Hospital in Washington DC. She specializes in treating children with special healthcare needs and dental trauma. Dr. Werger is fluent in Spanish and actively involved in community outreach programs. Her approach emphasizes cultural sensitivity and family-centered care for all patients.
Questions
What can I expect during my child's first dental visit?
Your child's first visit includes a gentle exam, professional cleaning, and oral hygiene tips. Our team ensures a fun, positive experience to build comfort with dental care.
At what age should my child start brushing their own teeth?
Children can start brushing independently with supervision around age 6 or 7 to ensure thorough cleaning and proper toothpaste use.
What should I do if my child is anxious about visiting the dentist?
Our team uses a friendly, patient approach to reduce anxiety. Let us know specific concerns to create a stress-free visit for your child.
How can I help my child develop good oral hygiene habits?
Encourage twice-daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste, daily flossing, and regular dental visits. Make brushing fun with games or songs.
What should I do if my child has a dental emergency?
Contact us immediately at (970) 407-1020 for emergencies like knocked-out teeth or severe toothaches. Prompt care alleviates discomfort effectively.
Does Big Grins accept my insurance?
We accept major dental insurance plans including Delta Dental, MetLife, and United Healthcare. Contact our office for specific coverage questions.