Smile Starters

Smile Starters is a chain of dental clinics with a specific location in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, known as Smile Starters - Winston Salem. This clinic specializes in Pediatric dentistry, catering to children and young adults from infancy to adolescence. Their mission extends beyond basic dental care, aiming to nurture confident, healthy kids by providing positive experiences at the dentist. They offer a wide array of services designed for children, including routine dental cleanings, comprehensive oral evaluations, limited oral exams for pain, sealants, fluoride/varnish applications, and X-rays (with digital X-rays offering 90% less radiation). For restorative needs, they provide composite (white) and amalgam (silver) fillings, as well as stainless steel crowns. Smile Starters also addresses more complex needs with services like hospital dentistry for special needs children or those requiring major treatment, often in collaboration with board-certified anesthesiologists. They utilize various behavior and pain management techniques, including nitrous oxide (laughing gas) for anxious patients. Beyond general and pediatric dentistry, they offer orthodontic services, including traditional braces and Invisalign, and create in-house appliances such as thumb-sucking devices, pediatric gropers (pediatric dentures), and space maintainers. The clinic emphasizes preventive dentistry and patient education, ensuring a fun and safe environment for children. Smile Starters accepts various insurance plans, including North Carolina Medicaid, and offers convenient payment options. Dr. Rafael Rivera, Jr. is the CEO/Owner, and the organization is committed to community involvement, participating in programs like Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures® and offering free dental service days.