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Your Child's Trusted Dental Partner in Puyallup, WA
South Hill Children's Dentistry is a family-focused pediatric dental practice dedicated to creating positive, fear-free dental experiences for children. Our board-certified pediatric dentists and compassionate team prioritize building trust through gentle care, kid-friendly technology, and clear communication. We specialize in treating infants, toddlers, adolescents, and special needs patients, emphasizing preventive care and oral health education. With over two decades of combined experience, our providers have developed specialized techniques to address dental anxiety and create a welcoming environment.Our practice features a playful waiting area with educational toys, digital X-rays for reduced radiation exposure, and sedation options for complex cases. We emphasize collaboration with parents to establish lifelong oral hygiene habits, offering personalized guidance on brushing techniques, nutrition, and emergency care. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our 4.9-star patient reviews and the community's trust in our services.
Services
Pediatric Dental Care
Special Needs Dentistry
Emergency Care
Professional Cleanings
Digital X-rays
Fluoride Treatments
Sedation Dentistry
Orthodontic Evaluation
Cavity Prevention
Oral Health Education
Highlights and features
- Board-certified pediatric dentists with specialized training
- Kid-friendly environment with interactive educational tools
- Specialized care for children with anxiety and special needs
- Proven techniques for creating positive dental experiences
- 4.9-star patient satisfaction rating from local families
What people say
Amazing staff
Patient with kids
Fun waiting area
Thorough explanations
Positive experiences
Services
Pediatric Dental Care
Our comprehensive pediatric dental services focus on creating positive experiences for children aged 1-18. We specialize in preventive care, early cavity detection, and developmental monitoring. Our approach combines gentle techniques with educational tools to establish lifelong oral health habits. Services include routine checkups, sealants, and behavior management strategies tailored to each child's needs.
Special Needs Dentistry
We provide customized dental care for children with developmental disabilities, sensory challenges, and medical complexities. Our team uses graduated exposure techniques and sensory-friendly equipment to create comfortable experiences. Services include specialized oral hygiene instruction and coordination with other healthcare providers for comprehensive care.
Emergency Dental Care
Our practice offers prompt care for dental emergencies including tooth pain, injuries, and trauma. We provide same-day consultations and treatment for issues like broken teeth, infections, and knocked-out permanent teeth. Our team is trained to handle pediatric emergencies with calming techniques and effective pain management.
Professional Cleanings
We offer age-appropriate professional cleanings performed by pediatric dental hygienists. Services include plaque and tartar removal, fluoride treatments, and personalized brushing instruction. Our team uses child-friendly tools and positive reinforcement to make cleanings comfortable while preventing cavities and gum disease.
Digital X-rays
We utilize advanced digital radiography for reduced radiation exposure and immediate image availability. This technology helps monitor tooth development, detect hidden decay, and plan orthodontic treatment. Images can be enhanced for better diagnosis while maintaining safety for young patients.
People
Dr. Clara Brannan
Owner and Pediatric Dentist
A Puyallup native, Dr. Brannan graduated from Franklin Pierce High School and Bates Technical College. She transitioned from dental assisting to dentistry after discovering her passion for pediatric care. With over 15 years of experience, she specializes in creating positive dental experiences for children.
Dr. Emily Pham
Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Pham earned her dental degree from Case Western Reserve University and completed a pediatric residency at Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital. She specializes in treating anxious patients and children with special healthcare needs, developing techniques to reduce dental fear through positive reinforcement.
Questions
At what age should my child first visit the dentist?
We recommend the first dental visit by age 1, following American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry guidelines. Early visits help establish good oral hygiene habits and allow us to monitor development.
What makes a pediatric dentist different from a general dentist?
Pediatric dentists complete 2-3 years of specialized training after dental school, focusing on child development, behavior management, and treating special needs patients. Our dentists are board-certified specialists.
How do you handle children with dental anxiety?
We use graduated exposure techniques, positive reinforcement, and child-friendly explanations. For severe cases, we offer sedation options and collaborate with families to create personalized comfort plans.
What should I do if my child has a dental emergency?
Call us immediately for same-day emergency care. Our team provides prompt treatment for tooth pain, injuries, and trauma, with calming techniques specifically for pediatric emergencies.
How can I prepare my child for their first dental visit?
Read children's books about dentists, maintain positive language, and consider our free 'Happy Visit' program for familiarization before the actual appointment.
Do you offer sedation options for dental procedures?
Yes, we provide various sedation methods including nitrous oxide and general anesthesia for complex cases or patients with special needs, ensuring safe and comfortable treatment.