Business Details
29 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Expert Pediatric Dental Care in Minnesota
At Tailwind Pediatric Dentistry, we are dedicated to providing exceptional dental care tailored specifically for children and adolescents. Our team of experienced professionals, led by Dr. Taylor Stephens and Dr. Laura Kottemann, combines advanced training and cutting-edge technology to create a welcoming environment where young patients feel safe and supported. With expertise in preventive, restorative, and aesthetic dentistry, we prioritize patient education and comfort, ensuring families understand treatment plans and oral health practices.Our commitment to innovation is evident in our use of the Solea laser, which minimizes discomfort and eliminates the need for anesthesia in many procedures. We foster trust through transparency, personalized care, and a deep understanding of children's unique dental needs, serving communities in Wayzata, Richfield, Edina, and Minneapolis, MN.
Services
Preventive Care
Restorative Dentistry
Dental Sealants
Digital X-Rays
Sedation Dentistry
Emergency Care
Fluoride Treatments
Orthodontic Evaluations
Mouthguards
Teeth Cleanings
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- Our team includes board-certified pediatric dentists with specialized training.
- We use the Solea laser for painless, anesthesia-free procedures.
- Frank, our therapy dog, reduces anxiety during visits.
- Personalized education on oral hygiene tailored to children's needs.
- Decades of combined experience in pediatric dental care.
Associations and certifications
- American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
What people say
Friendly staff
Child-friendly environment
Positive experiences
Trust the staff
No fear of dentist
Services
Preventive Care
Regular dental exams and cleanings prevent tooth decay and gum disease while teaching children proper oral hygiene habits. Our team provides fluoride treatments, dietary advice, and personalized brushing/flossing instruction. Early intervention ensures lifelong dental health.
Dental Sealants
Sealants protect children's molars from decay by sealing grooves where food particles accumulate. This quick, painless procedure creates smooth tooth surfaces that are easier to clean and more resistant to cavities.
Sedation Dentistry
We offer safe sedation options for anxious patients or complex procedures. Our dentists use nitrous oxide and oral sedatives to ensure comfortable treatment experiences while maintaining strict safety protocols for pediatric patients.
Digital X-Rays
Advanced digital X-rays provide detailed views of developing teeth with 80% less radiation than traditional film. These images help detect hidden decay, monitor tooth development, and plan orthodontic treatments effectively for young patients.
Emergency Dental Care
We prioritize dental emergencies for children, addressing injuries, infections, and severe toothaches promptly. Our team provides same-day appointments and clear post-treatment instructions to ensure quick recovery from unexpected dental issues.
People
Dr. Taylor Stephens
Pediatric Dentist
Board-certified pediatric dentist with advanced training from Cincinnati Children's Hospital. Developed sedation curriculum at University of Minnesota. Uses Solea laser technology to improve patient comfort through minimally invasive techniques.
Dr. Laura Kottemann
Pediatric Dentist
Compassionate dentist specializing in child-friendly care. Trained in treating anxious patients and children with special needs. Introduced Frank, our therapy dog, to create calming dental experiences for young visitors.
Brenda
Patient Coordinator
Dental professional with 25+ years experience. Coordinates treatment plans and hospital visits while comforting patients and families. Builds trust through clear communication and personalized scheduling assistance for pediatric patients.
Monica
Dental Hygienist
Pediatric-focused hygienist with expertise in easing children's dental anxiety. Explains oral hygiene techniques clearly to parents and children. Creates positive cleaning experiences that encourage lifelong dental care habits.
Tammy
Dental Assistant
Experienced assistant specializing in autism care. Uses gentle techniques to help children overcome dental fears. Provides individualized support during procedures while maintaining a calm, encouraging environment for anxious young patients.
Questions
When should my child first visit the dentist?
Schedule your child's first dental visit when their first tooth appears, or by age one. Early checkups prevent dental issues and establish good oral care habits.
How does pediatric dentistry differ from general dentistry?
Pediatric dentists complete two additional years of specialized training focusing on child development, behavior management, and treating dental issues unique to infants, children, and adolescents.
What happens during a first dental appointment?
The initial visit includes a gentle oral exam, cleaning demonstration, and discussion about proper oral care. We focus on building trust and making children comfortable while providing parents with age-appropriate dental advice.
How can I prepare my child for dental visits?
Maintain a positive attitude and avoid negative language. We recommend familiarizing children with dental terms through storybooks and emphasizing the importance of healthy smiles in a reassuring manner.
Why are baby teeth important?
Primary teeth aid speech development, chewing, and maintaining space for permanent teeth. Neglecting baby teeth can lead to pain, infections, and orthodontic issues that affect permanent dental alignment.
What technology do you use for comfortable care?
We utilize the Solea laser for painless procedures requiring no anesthesia, digital X-rays with reduced radiation exposure, and interactive tools that help children understand and visualize their dental care process.
