Business Details
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Your Trusted Pediatric Dentistry in Oakland
At Uptown Pediatric Dentistry, we are dedicated to creating a positive and educational dental experience for children and teens. Our team combines decades of specialized expertise in pediatric dentistry with a commitment to cultural awareness and patient-centered care. We utilize advanced techniques like digital X-rays, Silver Diamine Fluoride, and Atraumatic Restorative Techniques to provide minimally invasive treatments while prioritizing comfort. Our office maintains rigorous sterilization protocols exceeding CDC standards, including upgraded HVAC systems and hospital-grade air purifiers.With team members boasting credentials from institutions like UCSF and the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, we emphasize preventive care, emergency preparedness, and family education to establish lifelong oral health habits. Our practice reflects a deep commitment to community, with founders actively involved in local education and social advocacy initiatives.
Services
Pediatric Dentistry
Restorative Dentistry
Emergency Care
Preventative Dentistry
Dental Exams
Silver Diamine Fluoride
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Sealants
Fillings and Crowns
Highlights and features
- We have over 20 years of combined experience in pediatric dentistry
- Our team uses advanced atraumatic restorative techniques for minimal discomfort
- We provide 24/7 emergency dental care for children
- Our office maintains hospital-grade sterilization standards
- We offer bilingual services in Spanish and Portuguese
Associations and certifications
- American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
- University of California, San Francisco, Post-Doctoral Certificate in Pediatric Dentistry
What people say
Friendly and helpful
Successful dental visit
Greatest dental office
Calmed anxious child
Professional and caring
Services
Pediatric Dentistry
Our specialized pediatric dentistry focuses on creating positive dental experiences for children of all ages. We provide age-appropriate care that emphasizes prevention, education, and comfort. Our team uses child-friendly communication techniques and offers parent guidance to establish lifelong oral health habits while addressing specific developmental needs.
Restorative Dentistry
We offer comprehensive restorative treatments including fillings and crowns using child-safe materials. Our approach prioritizes minimally invasive techniques like Silver Diamine Fluoride to halt decay progression. For primary teeth, we use stainless steel or white zirconia crowns that balance durability with aesthetics while maintaining proper dental development.
Emergency Care
Our emergency dental services address urgent oral health issues for children, including trauma and severe toothaches. We provide immediate care guidance over the phone and prioritize same-day appointments for acute cases. Our team is trained to handle pediatric emergencies with specialized techniques that minimize distress and ensure proper follow-up care.
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
We offer nitrous oxide sedation to help anxious children relax during dental procedures. This safe, reversible sedation method allows children to remain conscious while feeling calm and comfortable. Our team carefully monitors each patient throughout treatment to ensure optimal sedation levels and immediate recovery post-appointment.
Preventative Dentistry
Our preventative care program includes professional cleanings, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants to protect young smiles. We emphasize early intervention and education about proper oral hygiene. Our registered dental assistants demonstrate all tools before use and provide age-appropriate instruction to help families maintain optimal dental health between visits.
People
Dr. Denise Bass Allen
Dentist
Board-certified pediatric dentist with over 30 years of experience. Specializes in treating anxious children and developing personalized care approaches. Active community member and part-time ski instructor. Holds post-doctoral certification from UCSF.
Dr. Susanna Cheng
Dentist
Native Oaklander with 20+ years in pediatric dentistry. Graduated from University of the Pacific School of Dentistry. Focuses on creating comfortable dental experiences for children. Active mother of two who enjoys community engagement.
Dr. Carl Buchanon
Dentist
First-generation dentist with specialized training in pediatric care. Completed residency at UCSF with research focus on adolescent oral health. Recipient of multiple pediatric dentistry awards. Passionate about empowering families through dental education.
Mayra Apodaca
Office Manager
Registered Dental Assistant with over 15 years in pediatric dentistry. Bilingual in Spanish and English. Focuses on patient comfort and office operations. Enjoys reading and mentoring young patients.
Desiree Hamlin-Harris
Financial Coordinator
Dental insurance specialist with 20+ years of experience. Helps families navigate coverage complexities. Born and raised in San Francisco. Passionate about making dental care accessible to all families.
Questions
What age should my child first visit a pediatric dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends establishing a dental home by age 1, or within 6 months of the first tooth erupting.
Do you accept dental insurance?
We work with most insurance providers and help verify coverage before treatment. Patients should confirm their specific benefits with their insurance carrier.
How do you handle dental emergencies?
We provide same-day emergency appointments for acute issues. Call our office immediately for urgent dental care needs after regular business hours.
What sedation options are available?
We offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) for anxious patients. Our team carefully monitors each child to ensure safe and effective sedation during procedures.
Are parents allowed during dental treatments?
Yes, parents can accompany children during treatments. We encourage parental presence while using age-appropriate explanations to help children feel comfortable.
