Parent FAQs

Yes. Dr. Natalie Smith is a board-certified pediatric dentist and a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry (ABPD). This distinction reflects advanced education and a commitment to the highest standards of pediatric oral health care. Board certification requires successful completion of a pediatric dental residency, comprehensive examinations, and continued evaluation of clinical knowledge and judgment. It confirms expertise in preventive care, early intervention, trauma management, and treatment of children with diverse medical or behavioral needs. For parents, Dr. Smith’s board certification provides added confidence that their child is receiving care from a specialist trained to treat young patients with skill, patience, and compassion—helping build positive dental experiences and lifelong healthy habits.

Dr. Smith completed clinical rotations at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, Crittenden Regional Hospital, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. In those settings, she cared for children undergoing medical treatments, children with developmental or behavioral differences, and those with complex health needs. This training taught her how to adapt care gently and thoughtfully, use behavior guidance and desensitization techniques, and create an environment where even the most vulnerable patients feel safe and supported.

Dr. Smith believes that small steps early on can make a big difference later. Her focus is on: Preventing problems before they start through education and routine care Monitoring growth and development of the teeth, jaws, and bite Identifying risks early, including cavities, trauma risks, and developmental concerns Supporting medically complex children with tailored preventive plans She partners closely with parents to build simple, realistic routines that protect a child’s oral health and overall well-being over time.

Being part of a locally owned, non-corporate pediatric practice allows Dr. Smith to practice in exactly the way she believes kids deserve—slow enough to build trust, personal enough to really know each family, and flexible enough to tailor care to each child. She’s not rushed by corporate quotas or pressured into one-size-fits-all care. Instead, she can focus on what matters most: listening, supporting, and doing what is truly best for every child she sees.

Dr. Smith cares for children from infancy through the teenage years. Whether it’s a first tooth visit, help with thumb-sucking, cavity prevention, or guiding a teen through more complex treatment, she tailors her approach to each stage of growth and development.

Dr. Smith follows evidence-based guidelines and uses X-rays only when they are truly needed for diagnosis or treatment planning, always keeping radiation exposure as low as reasonably possible. When it comes to sedation, she carefully evaluates each child’s medical history, anxiety level, and treatment needs, and only recommends options that are safe, appropriate, and clearly explained to parents. Her goal is always to keep children comfortable while minimizing intervention whenever possible.

Dr. Smith believes parents should never feel rushed, confused, or pressured. She takes time to explain what she’s seeing, why it matters, and what the options are—including when it’s reasonable to watch and wait. She encourages questions, welcomes second looks, and wants parents to leave feeling informed, confident, and comfortable with their child’s care plan.