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The smiles and laughter of children bring joy to the world. These dentists and orthodontists committed their lives to making children’s smiles shine as brightly as possible. Learn the common misconceptions when it comes to baby teeth, the advice each dentist and orthodontist has for parents, and why these doctors chose their specific specialty.
Erin Knierim, DMD, MS
Pediatric Dentist
3036 W. Sylvania Ave.
419-474-0733 | drknierim.com
What made you want to be a pediatric dentist?
Providing children with positive experiences early on helps them to develop a good relationship with dental health. I didn’t start out as a pediatric dentist; however, I found the most joy in the days when my schedule had children primarily, so I went back to school so I could learn how to best care for them. Kids feel so much pride and accomplishment when they complete a dental visit with flying colors and facilitating that is such a rewarding feeling.
What is different about a pediatric dentist?
A pediatric dentist has a minimum of two additional years of specialized training where we learn to treat the unique needs of your growing child. We love hanging out with kids all day (and their parents, too) as a focus of our practice.
What sets your practice apart from others in town?
Toledo is a great town with many highly qualified providers to treat your child. My practice is small, which allows us to get to know our families well, and they get to know us. Patients can expect to see the same smiling faces at each visit, which can help them feel comfortable in the dental environment.
What is one thing you want parents to know about their child’s oral health?
Coming to see the dentist early and often is important, but what has the most value in terms of maintaining overall dental health is what you do at home, on your own time, in between your dental visits. Make healthy food choices and make good oral hygiene a family priority.
Jonathan Frankel, DDS
General Dentist
Frankel Dentistry
5012 Talmadge Road, Toledo | 419-474-9611
4359 Keystone Drive, Maumee | 419-893-0221
jonfrankeldentistry.com
Why did you choose to become a dentist?
I wanted a career in sports. I was tempted to become a professional tennis player, but my dad’s passion for dentistry was contagious. I saw how his patients were considered friends. I heard over and over again from patients (inside and outside the office) about the quality of his work, and I wanted to be a part of it.
What sets your practice apart?
Our purpose is Changing Lives a Smile at a Time. We set ourselves apart from the rest by providing The Best Dental
Experience. We live our values of Always Better, Serve All and G.E.T. (Gratitude, Encouragement, Thankfulness).
What is one thing you want parents to know about their child’s oral health?
The initial should be scheduled as soon as the first tooth pops through. Ask for a copy of our Look & Learn, Infant Oral Care Visit Brochure, for more information.
Dr. Ashley Paulus
Pediatric Dentist
Sylvania Pediatric Dental Care | 5860 Alexis Rd.
419-882-7187 | sylvaniapediatricdentalcare.com
What made you decide to become a pediatric dentist?
I’ve always enjoyed being around children and their energy. I chose pediatric dentistry because I wanted a career where I could combine both art and science with being an educator. I get to have fun and be silly while establishing wonderful relationships with families and advocating for their child’s oral health.
What is different about a pediatric dentist?
Pediatric dentists have an additional 2-3 years of pediatric-specific training after dental school to learn about growth and development. We treat children of all ages, from their first tooth to their high school graduation. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends establishing a dental home by your child’s first birthday.
What sets your practice apart?
It is our goal to make each visit an enjoyable one for our patients and their families. We understand that every child is unique and strive to give each of our patients the best personalized dental experience possible.
What is one thing you wish parents knew about their child’s oral health?
Prevention is key. Establishing good habits early sets the foundation for a lifelong healthy smile. That includes good brushing and flossing techniques as well as a healthy, low sugar diet. It is important to minimize snacking between meals and encourage your child to drink more water.
Timothy D. Voss, DDS
Pediatric Dentist
5635 Monclova Rd., Maumee
419-893-0708 | Maumeepediatricdental.com
Why did you choose to become a dentist?
I enjoyed visiting my pediatric dentist as a child— my mom worked there— and I appreciated the kindness and patience that my pediatric dentists exhibited. I decided I wanted to be a pediatric dentist at a young age because teeth are cool and kids are fun!
What is a pediatric dentist?
As the “pediatricians of teeth,” pediatric dentists are specialized in the oral care of children as they transition from infants to adults.
What sets your practice apart from others in town?
We have an amazing, highly-skilled Pediatric Dental Team that loves to work with young people and those with special health care needs to create a healthy mouth and healthy person.
What is one thing you want parents to know about their child’s oral health?
It is important to establish a “dental home” at a young age so that you can earn the child’s trust. It is also a great opportunity to discuss dietary choices as they relate to your child’s teeth and to go over home care routines to prevent decay.
Dr. Jennifer Ludwig
Orthodontist
HLS Orthodontics
Sylvania: 6407 Monroe St., 419-882-1017.
Lambertville: 7928 Secor Rd., 734-854-6221.
Maumee: 4359 Keystone Dr., Suite 200. 419-887-1247.
perfectbraces.com
Why did you choose to become an orthodontist?
My orthodontist seemed to really enjoy what he did, and I remember how improving my smile improved my self-esteem. I wanted to have a career I was passionate about and could positively impact the community.
What is different about an orthodontist (versus a dentist)?
An orthodontist is a dentist that chose to attend a 2-3 year residency to receive additional training specific to orthodontics. Once the training is completed, we are eligible to sit for our specialty board exam and become a certified orthodontist. I treat all ages, with the most common age being 12.
Describe your practice in one sentence?
Treat all our patients as if they were family.
What is one thing you want parents to know about their child’s oral health?
Investing now can save time and money in the dental chair decades from now.
