I am especially drawn to preventive and minimally-invasive dentistry, as these improve dental health and deliver good experiences and results. I am equally as dedicated to educating patients and families about oral health and nutrition. By establishing good dental hygiene and healthy habits early on, we can head off future issues.
Each child is unique and requires an individual approach. Beyond their clinical needs, it is important to connect with the child on their level, so they feel safe and reassured. By talking with a child in a calm manner, using words they understand, and with a show-tell-do approach, Dr. Mindy, our staff, and I are able to make even an anxious patient feel more at ease.
Before, during, and after a procedure, we make sure our patient is comfortable, physically and emotionally. We tell them how well theyre doing and how impressed we are with their behavior. This praise and encouragement foster a childs pride and reinforces the positive experience!
It is an honor to have provided pediatric dental care for families in the Kanawha Valley for three decades. Nothing is better than earning a childs a trust, empowering them to take control of their oral health, and seeing them graduate to a general dentist with a healthy, beautiful smile.
My Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS) was awarded by West Virginia University. I then completed my Pediatric Dental Residency at the Childrens Medical Center in Dayton, Ohio. After finishing the residency, I returned to my hometown of Charleston and began seeing patients.
In my years of practicing, there have been remarkable advancements in oral healthcare and pediatric dentistry. Research continually leads to new technologies and methodologies, improving diagnostics, treatment planning, procedures, and results. As importantly, these advancements also make care faster and more comfortable.
In order to stay current on the latest changes, I attend the annual sessions of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and West Virginia Dental Association. I also pursue continuing education through podcasts, the latest journals, and other venues.
These professional organizations provide access to the newest options and developments. I learn from leaders in pediatric dentistry and oral healthcare, incorporating the best changes into patient care.
Family and community are important to me and I serve on the Foundation Board of St. George Orthodox Cathedral. I also support the backpack program on Charlestons west side, along with Fairness West Virginia, which advocates for the states LGBTQ community.
I also love the warm, inviting feeling you get when you walk into Kanawha City Pediatric Dentistry. From the front office team members to the clinical team, everyone here strives to help children and families understand the importance of good oral health. It is our mission to make the dentist fun and stress-free for the child AND the parent, and we understand that this takes time, patience, and the development of mutual trust.
My goal when entering the dental field was to help children and their families in a way that could impact their overall health and help them overcome their initial fears of the dentist and guide them down the right oral health path. To achieve this goal, I completed the following:
I am originally from Kenova, West Virginia and recently moved back to Charleston, West Virginia after living in Virginia for 14 years. My husband David and I have three children, Alex, David Jr., and Farra. We are excited to be back in West Virginia with friends and family, and look forward to meeting new friends and developing new relationships in our home state.
The kids keep us very busy, but when we have time, we enjoy traveling throughout the US and exploring and enjoying this beautiful state we live in. We are members at St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church and enjoy spending time with our church family as well.
Since we are new to the area, I am currently looking into ways that I can become more active within the community, including dental outreach programs and community programs that would benefit Charleston families. Previously, I volunteered during Mission of Mercy and Give Kids a Smile events to provide dental care to those who need it the most.
Dr. Don, Dr. Mindy, and our team are relatable, down-to-earth people, believing in community and family. While were experienced professionals, were also warm, friendly, and practical. We know how important it is to help our young patients feel at home in the dental office and we know how to help even the most anxious little one feel safe.
Each of us promises to treat your child as we would our own: gently, with the greatest compassion and patience. Earning their trust, and yours, we will be your partners as your little one grows into a young adult with their healthiest, happiest smile!
It is our honor to have served families through the Kanawha Valley for 30 years. Our practice has grown through word-of-mouth referrals, and were thrilled to now be caring for the smiles of the children of former patients!
Once your child is in our treatment area, they can watch their favorite show on our ceiling-mounted TVs, and at the end of a visit they get to pick a sticker and a token to use in our prize machine. We also have a fun photo booth with plenty of props and costumes to further enhance their positive experience!
It is important you feel comfortable with the care we provide. Each of us focuses on open, direct communication and is always happy to answer your, or your childs questions. We will always explain treatment recommendations and review procedures, so you understand what we are going to do and why.
Our doctors and team excel at connecting with children, too. Using age- and developmental-appropriate terms, we will talk with your little one in a manner they understand. By explaining what we are going to do, we reduce anxiety and help patients feel safe. During the treatment, we provide constant, positive feedback, telling your child how well theyre doing and how impressed we are with them!
Dr. Don, Dr. Mindy, and our team are excited to meet your family and you. We promise to care for your children as we would our own. Working with you, well set your young family members on the path to a lifetime of beautifully healthy and happy smiles!