Her treatment philosophy is inspired by advice from her father, a physician. On the day she graduated from dental school, he told her, Treat every patient like they are a member of our family. Based on this idea, Dr. Roya developed the Sequential Approach to Familiarize and Engage (SAFE) technique for pediatric dentistry, which encourages your child to become an active participant in their treatment and promotes a positive attitude around their dental care.
Dr. Roya grew up in Philadelphia and completed her undergraduate degree at Wellesley College. After earning her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Maryland, Dr. Roya went on to complete her residency in pediatric dentistry at New York University.
In addition to working with the growing patients and their families at our bright, fun practice, Dr. Roya is also an active member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the Greater Washington Academy of Women Dentists. She is past president of the D.C. Association of Pediatric Dentists and Deans Faculty at University of Maryland.
As a three-time Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) mom, Dr. Pilcher is the founder of The Ava Potter Pilcher Foundation, an organization dedicated to promoting positive psycho-social outcomes for families who have an infant in the NICU. Dr. Roya is an avid outdoorswoman and lives with her family and their many animals in a 19th century farmhouse in Maryland. When she isnt taking care of her brood or in her garden, you can find her horseback riding, skiing, hiking or canoeing!
The team at Smile Valley Pediatric Dentistry is changing what it means for families to go to the dentist. Were dedicated to offering exceptional care and stress-free service in a fun, engaging way. We believe when children actually like dental visits, it builds the foundation for lifelong healthy smiles. Get to know the people behind our Spring Valley practice.
At our fun, bright pediatric dental office in Washington, DC, we treat all of our patients like VIPs. Lets work together to give your child the healthy, beautiful smile they deserve. Schedule a visit at Smile Valley Pediatric Dentistry today!
When the child has their third sticker in hand, its time for them to earn the bigger prize, usually a small toy like a rubber ducky. Dr. Roya will ask the child if they want to see our electric toothbrush. Shell turn on the toothbrush so the child can get used to the sound and then let the child feel the toothbrush on their hand. If thats okay, shell demonstrate by brushing a tooth or two.
The child will choose their toothpaste flavor and Dr. Roya will then introduce them to our suction device, Mr. Thirsty. Again, Shell demonstrate the tool on the patients hand, so they can see that it doesnt hurt, and quickly show them how it works in their mouth.
Once the child gives us the go-ahead, the pediatric dentist will perform a gentle but thorough cleaning, all the while encouraging the child, explaining what theyre doing, and giving them pointers on brushing and flossing their own teeth. With their teeth clean, the patient will get to claim their bigger prize.
Reviews
Rating 5.0 out of 5 based on 162 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestAnna Rose Siegel
a year ago
Great with kids! Very thorough
Michael Choi
a year ago
Smile Valley has been our kids' dental practice since they were old enough to have teeth. Our kids have zero anxiety about visiting Dr. Pilcher. Everyone is very friendly, organized, and exceptional with children. We couldn't be happier.
Christine Richmond
a year ago
Just amazing. So good with kids, easy to get appointments, and great location. Highly recommend.
lisa perrico
a year ago
Everyone who works here are kind and welcoming. My three daughters are totally at ease with Dr. Pilcher. She is professional and thorough, we love Smile Valley.
Jill Bohnenkamp
a year ago
Smile valley pediatric dentistry is the absolute best! We have been seeing Dr. Pilcher for 6 years and she and her team are amazing! Highly recommend!!
Stephanie Hickey
a year ago
We love Dr. Piltcher! She is kind, patient, honest and always willing to help. We couldn't be happier with her as our children's dentist.
Elizabeth Wells
a year ago
My daughter loved her visit today - thanks to Dr. Pilcher and team for taking great care of her teeth and making it a positive experience.
Erika Aparaka
a year ago
Dr. Pilcher and her team are phenomenal! She is attentive, caring, and professional. My sons, ages 7 and 10 actually look forward to going to the dentist because of the kindness and trust Dr. Pilcher and her staff have exhibited. My younger son has had more complex dental needs, and Dr. Pilcher has been very proactive in helping us address them to ensure the best outcomes. On the other hand my older son is a relatively easy case but we haven't been upsold services. All in all I feel both of my sons' unique needs have been met. Thank you, Dr. Pilcher!
Elizabeth Green
a year ago
A wonderful, kid-friendly practice!
Linda Lynch
a year ago
Warm and friendly atmosphere and the staff is extremely pleasant. Didn't feel rushed at all and they were gentile and patient with my 5 year old daughter when she was nervous for her turn to go. Nothing but great things to say!
Ann Mead
a year ago
We really appreciate the effort Dr Pilcher puts into encouraging child participation in their care. Our kids are comfortable and calm in her office. She is very efficient, on time, professional, and thorough and her staff is SO friendly and helpful. We highly recommend.
Taryn Rosenkranz
a year ago
We love this place. My kids have been going there since they were little and she has always made them so comfortable. Simply the best!!!
Lisa Danzig
2 years ago
Dr Pilcher was terrific. Our 6 year old was reluctant to do the fluoride. Dr Pilcher gave her the choice and let her know she was in control, but mentioned she wouldn't get the prize if she couldn't complete the visit. The 6 year old asked for the fluoride and got her sticky hand. I wish Dr Pilcher could help us at meal times!
Evelyn Simmons
2 years ago
We had been seeing a dentist that also saw kids vs a pediatric practice set up for kids. It was disastrous. We were among Dr. Pilcher's first clients so we saw her leadership in creating the practice. Over the years, Dr. Pilcher has consistently delivered high professionalism and efficiency while maintaining singular focus on the pediatric patient. We are so grateful we found her!
Arturo Coc Choj
2 years ago
(Translated by Google) Thanks Dr. Pilcher! Now I am very happy with my teeth, you have excellent service and staff. Everyone is very kind and professional. And I want to invite all the patients to come to this office with Dr. Pilcher! Thank you God bless you all (Original) Gracias el Dr.Pilcher! Ahora me siento muy feliz con mis dientes, tiene un excelente servicio y personal. Todos son muy amables y son profesionales .y quiero invitarle a todos los pacientes que vengan en este oficina con el Dr.Pilcher !gracias que Dios los vendiga a Todos
Carlos Vanegas
2 years ago
My soon to be six your old son looks forward to his appointment with Dr. Pilcher. On his first appointment when he was two he exhibited some anxiety and trepidation. Dr. Pilcher did the essential work and along with her assistant reassured him and made him feel comfortable. After that all the appointments have been easy stress free. He likes everything about the office; the play area, the greeting from Bianca, the personable assistants, the sun glasses, the flavored toothpaste and most of all Dr. Pilcher's friendly and smiling communication. She's a superstar, and my son will go nowhere else.
Dia Maxineau
2 years ago
This office has an excellent staff. All are very cheerful and professional. Dr. Pilcher and her assistant have a wonderful rapport with my daughter while she is in the chair.
Heather Petruzzi
2 years ago
On time, excellent with my 3 year old, provided helpful tips and answered questions.
David Russo
2 years ago
Attentive, thorough, and caring dentist.
Hollis Hughes
2 years ago
They have a gift with children and understand how to make them feel comfortable. My daughter came back from her first dentist visit ready to play dentist and try her new toothbrush. A definite win for this toddler parent.
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