Business Details
18 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Pediatric Dentistry Partner in Missoula, MT
At 3 Rivers Pediatric Dentistry, we are dedicated to providing exceptional dental care for infants, children, teens, and patients with special needs. Our approach centers on treating each patient as an individual, partnering with families to address their unique needs and foster lifelong oral health. With a focus on compassion and respect, we create a fun, educational, and kid-centered environment where every child feels comfortable and supported. Our team of board-certified pediatric specialists brings extensive experience and a commitment to staying at the forefront of evidence-based dentistry.We prioritize preventive care, early intervention, and advanced treatment options, ensuring that every family receives personalized guidance and solutions tailored to their childs developmental stage. Our practice emphasizes transparency, clear communication, and a proactive approach to oral hygiene, empowering parents to maintain their childs dental health between visits. By combining clinical expertise with a warm, patient-first philosophy, we aim to build trust and confidence in every interaction.
Services
Pediatric Dental Treatments
Emergency Treatment
Special Needs Care
Sedation Dentistry
General Anesthesia
Oral Hygiene Instruction
Fillings
Stainless Steel Crowns
Extractions
Space Maintainers
Details
- Year established: 2008
Highlights and features
- We have board-certified pediatric specialists with advanced training in children's dental care.
- Our team provides tailored treatment plans for patients with special needs.
- We offer sedation and general anesthesia options for complex cases.
- Emergency dental care is available to address urgent needs promptly.
- Our practice emphasizes preventive education and family-centered care.
Associations and certifications
- American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
What people say
Excellent dental care
Calmed nervous energy
Fun and engaging
Personalized care
Knowledgeable staff
Services
Pediatric Dental Treatments
We provide comprehensive dental treatments tailored to childrens unique needs, including preventive care, restorative procedures, and orthodontic evaluations. Our approach emphasizes education, early intervention, and creating positive experiences to build lifelong oral health habits. Services are customized for each childs age, developmental stage, and specific requirements.
Emergency Treatment
Our team offers urgent care for dental injuries, infections, and trauma, ensuring prompt attention to alleviate pain and prevent complications. We guide families through immediate steps to take during emergencies and provide follow-up care to restore oral health safely and effectively.
Special Needs Care
We specialize in treating children with physical, developmental, or medical conditions, offering customized care plans and sedation options to ensure comfort and accessibility. Our staff is trained to address complex needs while maintaining a supportive, stress-free environment for patients and families.
Sedation Dentistry
We provide nitrous oxide and other sedation methods to help anxious or young patients relax during procedures. These options ensure safe, comfortable treatment while allowing children to receive necessary care without fear or discomfort, fostering positive dental experiences.
General Anesthesia
For extensive treatments or patients requiring specialized care, we offer general anesthesia in hospital or surgical center settings. This ensures comprehensive care in a controlled environment, prioritizing safety and comfort while addressing complex dental needs efficiently.
People
Dr. April Foster
Board Certified Pediatric Specialist
Dr. Foster is a board-certified pediatric dentist with advanced training from Boston University. She has practiced in Montana since 2008 and specializes in evidence-based care for children, including preventive and restorative treatments. Her focus is on creating positive dental experiences for young patients.
Dr. Anne Ziegler
Board Certified Pediatric Specialist
Dr. Ziegler completed her pediatric residency and masters degree at Ohio State University. She joined 3 Rivers Pediatric Dentistry after practicing in Alaska, bringing expertise in treating children with diverse needs. Her approach emphasizes compassionate care and family education.
Questions
What is the difference between a general dentist and a pediatric dentist?
Pediatric dentists complete two to three additional years of specialized training after dental school, focusing exclusively on children’s oral health, including behavior management, growth development, and treating patients with special needs.
Why are baby teeth important?
Primary teeth aid in speech development, chewing, and guiding permanent teeth into proper alignment. They also support facial structure and prevent infections that could harm developing adult teeth.
When should my child first visit the dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a child’s first dental visit by age one or within six months of their first tooth erupting to establish preventive care early.
What are dental sealants and how do they work?
Sealants are thin, BPA-free coatings applied to molars to block food particles and bacteria from settling into deep grooves, significantly reducing cavity risk in children.
How can I prepare my child for a dental emergency?
Familiarize yourself with steps for common emergencies like knocked-out teeth or injuries. Contact us immediately for guidance, and avoid attempting complex procedures without professional advice.
Are dental X-rays safe for children?
We use digital radiography to minimize radiation exposure. X-rays are only recommended when necessary for diagnosis, based on individual risk factors and developmental needs.
