As a pediatric dentist, Dr. OCallaghan has two years of additional specialty training following his four years of dental school. During his residency, Dr. OCallaghan had extensive training in infant oral health care, trauma management, cavity risk assessment, growth and development, interceptive orthodontic management, administration of sedation medications, treatment of children and special needs patients in the operating room, and general restorative treatments. A childs mouth is constantly growing and changing so treatment is approached differently for children than it is for adults. Our staff at Gaines Pediatric Dentistry is expertly trained in oral care for children of all ages. Whether you are looking for infant, special needs, or toddler to teenage dental care, weve got you covered!
We understand that a trip to the dental office can be intimidating for people of all ages. Thats why our office offers afun environment for everyone! We have TVs in the lobby and treatment rooms, WiFi access, and amenities for your kids including a play area with childrens books, toys, and iPads. Dont worry parents, we havent forgotten about you either; while your child is enjoying games you can sip your complementary coffee from our Keurig coffee maker. Our expert staff is kind, gentle and fun. We will do everything we can to ensure your child is at ease and relaxed.
Its important that your child feel comfortable and relaxed with us so we can build a trusting relationship together. Not only will this allow future visits to go smoothly, it will lay the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles!
As a pediatric dental specialist, Dr. OCallaghan knows that children can get anxious when they visit the dentist. We offer a number of sedation options to help your child feel comfortable during their treatment.
Nitrous oxide, more commonly known as laughing gas, is great for children with minor dental anxiety. It smells sweet and helps them feel very relaxed while our team works. Plus, just a few minutes of breathing regular air completely reverses its effects. Its safe for children of all ages. For children with moderate dental anxiety, or those going through treatment that is a little more extensive, Dr. OCallaghan may recommend sedation.
My name is Megan and I am a dental hygienist. Even before I realized I wanted to be a dental hygienist, I knew I wanted to work with children. I started my education at Calvin College and later transferred into the Dental Hygiene program at Grand Rapids Community College. I am excited to be at GPD to watch the kids grow, overcome their fears, and learn how to grow up with a healthy mouth.
Hi, my name is Yunie. I am a registered dental hygienist here at GPD. I graduated from Grand Rapids Community College in 2017. I love working with kids and love making each dental visit a fun time! I also enjoy educating and assisting parents to provide the best care for their child.
My name is Marilu. I am a registered dental assistant at Gaines Pediatric Dentistry. I received my certificate in dental assisting in 2008 from Everest Institute, followed by my CDA through DANB in 2016. I earned my RDA from Washtenaw Community College in 2017. Working in a pediatric office is very rewarding and fulfilling for me. I enjoy working with our great staff, but the best part of my job is the children. Every child brings their unique personality to the office and I enjoy getting to know each and every one of them.
When not in the office, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our families. I especially love spending time with my nieces and nephews. My favorite season is summer when I can enjoy going to the beach, camping, biking and reading outside in the sunshine.
When Im not at work I enjoy spending time with my husband and our dogs. I also do some photography and videography for weddings with my sister-in-law. I love to travel and really enjoy playing ultimate frisbee.
My name is Lauren and I am the Office Administrator here at Gaines Pediatric Dentistry. My main responsibilities include insurance and billing, coordinating our anesthesia cases, and helping the office run smoothly for our team and patients. I received my Bachelors in Allied Health Sciences from Grand Valley State University in 2017 and have worked in both healthcare and administration for several years before joining the team at GPD. I love being a part of providing excellent care for our patients and their smiles.
Hi! My name is Claire and I am the Receptionist here at Gaines Pediatric Dentistry. I graduated from Grand Valley State University in 2021 with a Bachelors Degree in Biomedical Sciences. I was a part of the GVSU Pre-Dental Club and also had a focus in pre-dentistry. I am very happy to be a part of such an awesome team and enjoy greeting families every day with a friendly face!
My name is Paige, and Im the Treatment Coordinator here at Gaines Pediatric Dentistry. I graduated from Western Michigan University with a Bachelors in Communication Studies. I strive to make every parent and patient feel confident in having GPD be their dental home and hope to make your experience the best possible.