As a dentist, I absolutely love the challenge of making dental experiences as close to fun as possible. Its a rare person, especially among children, who truly enjoys being at the dentists office, but I use my creativity and genuine care for patients to help build an environment that allows everyone to be comfortable and enjoy their time in our office.
I always tell my patients and their families that I am a real person first and a dentist second. My care and concern for my patients goes beyond their teeth and oral health: I love to build relationships with everyone whom I treat, and I do not take lightly the responsibility that I have to care for my patients in the most compassionate and personable way possible.
For my undergraduate education, I attendedWillamette Universityin Salem,to receive a degree in microbiology. Upon graduation, I went toOregon Health & ScienceUniversityfor my dental training and Doctorate of Medical Dentistry.
I am a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, and I have worked hard to earn this prestigious title. Board-certified status is a title of excellence and is reserved for only the most educated, skilled, and trained dentists in the nation. I have strived to become the best dentist that I can be because I am dedicated to my patients health and happiness.
I also know that I must stay on the cutting edge of dentistry so my patients receive all the benefits of the latest trends, techniques, and technologies within the dental field. For this reason, I complete over 40 hours a year in courses that advance my professional skill and understanding.
By holding active membership in numerous professional affiliations, I am able to interact and interchange ideas with my fellow dental colleagues. This has always been a crucial component of my commitment to continuing education.
We also support and mentor students who are thinking about joining the dental field in the future. We love hosting field trips, and I love talking to groups of moms and community colleges about how to improve dental health and overall well-being.
I was born in San Diego but I have lived all over the country. For the past 20 years, I have called Oregon my home. At home, my favorite thing to do is to play with my two sons Cody and Dusty, and spend time with my family. I am involved in gardening, and working in my ceramic studio in my home. My favorite place in the world is Disneyland. If I wasnt a pediatric dentist, I would be working for Disney.
Dr. Holly Okerstrom grew up in Corvallis, Oregon and has practiced dentistry there for nearly ten years. She is excited to return to the Portland metro area, having received her dental trainingat OHSU. Prior to dental school, she received a degree in biology from the University of Puget Sound.
Dentistry for Kids was established to be different. We wanted to redefine the experience of dentistry for our patients, allowing them to grow up with all the confidence that a healthy smile provides. That will continue to be our mission as we reinvest in our practice and staff to meet that goal.
No matter how difficult or complex our patients situations are, we always do whatever we can to ensure our patients health and comfort all while making their experiences as rewarding and beneficial as possible.
In our state-of-the-art facility, each patient receives the highest level of treatment available in dentistry. We use only the latest and most advanced and proven techniques and materials so our patients treatments are as comfortable, effective, and time-efficient as possible.
Dr. Jamesis board certified, a distinction reserved for only the most experienced and skilled practitioners. The majority of our staff members have four-year degrees in dental hygiene. Weve invested in expanded functions dental assistants and highlytrained hygienists because our focus is on patient education and problem prevention.
Emergencies are unexpected and stressful, so we are always here, day or night, to handle any emergencies that come along. At our practice, there is no limit to our hours for treating someone in pain or with any sort of trauma. We are here for youalways.
In order for our patients to receive the most exceptional dental experience, we understand that they must feel relaxed and comfortable. You will always walk through our doors into an atmosphere of smiling faces and a warm, welcoming, and friendly environment.
We cater to young children by changing what a dental office looks like, sounds like, and smells like. Its something youll notice from the moment you step into the waiting room. In fact, theres much more playing than waiting! We have six advanced IPads on which the children can play educational games. We have a miniature cafe and kitchen for kids to play and make food in. We also have a train table and doll house for our littlest of patients. Our teen side has computers, vintage arcade games, a jukebox, modern arcade games, PlayStations, and a lot of private seating. Even adults appreciate our fun music and coffee!
We love building lasting relationships with our dental family, and one way that we love to engage with our patients and their families is through our infamous Star Nights. At 3:00pm on the third Friday of every month, we transform our office into a host of laser wallprojections, LED balloons, fake fireflies in jars, and ambient cricket sounds.
We look forward to meeting you and your family and answering any questions you may have about our practice or treatments. We are committed to working with you in helping the most important smiles of your family shine their brightest and healthiest.
Well always uphold open lines of communication and do our best to ensure your familys dental experiences are nothing less than exceptional. Our patients and their families are a part of our own family here, and we cant wait to welcome you!
Reviews
Rating 4.9 out of 5 based on 55 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestBrooke L
a year ago
This is the best dental office!! Our first appointment went smoothly and all three of my kids loved the dentist/staff! I would highly recommend this office. The arcade waiting room and themed rooms are also top notch.
Renee E
2 years ago
My objective with my kiddo's teeth is to keep them healthy, and guide him into adulthood with as few cavities as possible. I absolutely do not want a dentist doing unnecessary work on him. After visiting Dentistry for Kids several times, and speaking with Dr. James, I'm convinced he shares the same goal. My son looks forward to his teeth cleaning visits at this dentist office. In our time there, he has had one small cavity, and having it filled by Dr. James was easy. My kid was as relaxed as he could be, with no tears. Also, hallelujah for child size x-ray films. The facility truly is amazing; it feels like stepping into an amusement park with rooms decorated in themes, and plenty of kid centric activities in the waiting areas. At the completion of their visit, kids get to choose something from the prize area, which is so well stocked, it is practically an event in itself. I don't personally know Dr. James, but it's apparent to me that he has a vision for his practice. He has created an environment where kids can grow up associating dental health, and dentist offices with positive experiences. He cares about the quality of his work, and the quality of each child's experience. Honestly, I'm surprised by the two negative reviews. Dr. James took extra time to answer all my questions, and address all my concerns. I'd really like to know if the people that had negative experiences bothered to discuss them at the office, where they could be addressed. If I could give this office more stars, I would!
tahlia santos
2 years ago
used to go here as a kid. love it
Kat S
2 years ago
This office is amazing! The front office staff is SO friendly and helpful, like I really can't think of anywhere that has this level of just amazing customer service! And Dr. James is so calm and understanding and really puts the kids (and mom) at ease. So the people here are fantastic, but then you add in the awesome decor where you feel like you are at Disneyland, and just wow! I would highly recommend this dental office to anyone with kids! Well worth the drive we take to get there.
Vanessa Farias
2 years ago
First time here as a family we were so impressed by everyone's kindness and attentiveness. Thank you enough Lisa! My teeth feel amazing and to the rest of team! Such a fun place for everyone
Mayumi N.
2 years ago
I couldn't have asked for a better dentist office for my kids! We always feel so welcome, from the moment you walk in to when you leave. My kids LOVE all the different rooms! My daughter especially loves Krystal and is so sweet with her! Highly recommend!!
Kayla Faye Haag
2 years ago
Amazing service here! Each and every single person we came in contact with was genuine and helpful! Miss Krystal was THE BEST! She helped my daughter at her first dentist appointment ever and made it so much fun! We also are huge Disney fans and the vibe of this office feels like you're in the parks
Joe Mackie
2 years ago
Amazing techs and dentists took 4 kids at once and went super smoothly Crystal is amazing she made my 5 andn3 year old feel right at home. all the rest of the techs and dentist are awesome too! Thank you!
Brent DeArmond
2 years ago
Great dentist office!!! Everyones really good with my kids. Krystal always puts my 10yr old daughter at easy and help make the experience fun. Highly recommend!!!
Annie Book
2 years ago
The entire team at Dentistry For Kids are AMAZING! My children all love going to their dentist appointments! The team is always kind, respectful and super efficient all while making it fun at the same time! I highly recommend them and am grateful that my children are so well taken care of!
Morgan Susskind
2 years ago
We had the best experience here with my 5 and 2 year old. Krystal was sweet and gentle with the kids, and made us all feel so comfortable throughout our appointments. Dr. James was very calming and kind with the kids, and informative for me. The office was such a fun atmosphere for the kids, they can't wait to go back. So happy we found a pediatric dentist office that we love!
Margaret Horlacher
2 years ago
12+ years and we couldn't imagine going anywhere else. We always the staff friendly and they put my children at ease.
Tereasa Tallman
2 years ago
This office really rocks! My kids look forward to their dental visits and the staff is friendly and helpful. Dr. James is very conscientious, and takes good care of my children. I am so thankful we found this office.
Cyber Pickle
2 years ago
Dr James is super sweet, and the staff is super lively and fun to interact with too! 10/10, highly recommended!!
Jessica Varwig
2 years ago
Dentistry For Kids is top notch!! We've used them for close to 10 years! Even through dental trauma they've been supportive and a great team for our kiddos!!!
Bethany Boyle
2 years ago
We love this place! They are friendly, kind, and thorough. My daughters look forward to going to the dentist! Special shout out to Crystal! My younger daughter had an instant connection with Crystal and absolutely loves her! Crystal took her time to make my daughter feel comfortable. She explained everything and ensured my daughter was ready. She made it so fun and now my daughter has a great time at the dentist. Thanks so much!
Isaac Gagner
3 years ago
Dr James and his staff provide top quality dental work for children and teens. His approach puts children at ease and makes a trip to the dentist not just tolerable but enjoyable for young kids. 5 stars!
Tereasa Tallman
3 years ago
This office really rocks! My kids look forward to their dental visits and the staff is friendly and helpful. Dr. James is very conscientious, and takes good care of my children. I am so thankful we found this office.
Cyber Pickle
3 years ago
Dr James is super sweet, and the staff is super lively and fun to interact with too! 10/10, highly recommended!!
Jessica Varwig
3 years ago
Dentistry For Kids is top notch!! We've used them for close to 10 years! Even through dental trauma they've been supportive and a great team for our kiddos!!!
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