Southern Illinois Pediatric Dentistry

Southern Illinois Pediatric Dentistry is a well-established pediatric dental clinic with multiple locations in Southern Illinois, including Edwardsville, Columbia, and Godfrey. It is not an individual practice, but rather a group of specialized dentists and staff working together to provide comprehensive oral healthcare for children from infancy through adolescence, and also caters to patients with special needs. The clinic prides itself on creating a welcoming, comfortable, and positive experience for young patients, aiming to alleviate dental anxieties often associated with visits to the dentist. Their philosophy emphasizes establishing a "dental home" early in a child's life to foster good oral health habits for a lifetime. Southern Illinois Pediatric Dentistry offers a wide array of services, with a strong focus on preventative care to avoid more complex issues. These services include: Preventative Services: Regular dental exams, professional cleanings, digital X-rays (including panoramic X-rays for a complete view of developing dentition), and sealants to protect against cavities. Restorative Services: Tooth-colored fillings for a natural appearance, crowns for severely decayed or broken teeth, pulpotomies (often referred to as "baby root canals") when decay reaches the nerve, and extractions when necessary due to severe decay, infection, or trauma. Specialized Treatments: The clinic also provides services that general dentists typically do not offer to children, and has expertise in behavior management techniques, including the use of nitrous oxide and oral sedation. Treatment under general anesthesia is also available when needed, with dentists holding staff privileges at hospitals like Alton Memorial Hospital and Cardinal Glennon Children's Medical Center. Space Maintainers: When a primary (baby) tooth is extracted early, space maintainers may be used to prevent other teeth from shifting and preserve space for the permanent tooth to erupt correctly. The team at Southern Illinois Pediatric Dentistry includes several board-certified pediatric dentists, such as Dr. Christine A. Wohlford (known as Dr. Christy), Dr. Adam Snyder, Dr. Austin LaMay, and Dr. Valerie Spivey. They are highly trained in the unique aspects of children's dental care, including child psychology and development, to ensure a positive experience for every patient. They are members of professional organizations such as the American Dental Association, Illinois State Dental Society, and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.