Holistic Dentist for older elementary age kid
I'm looking for a recommendation for a dentist who can build a good rapport with my child, who is very anxious about dental visits. Each appointment tends to take twice as long because my child struggles to open their mouth and often needs frequent breaks during cleanings.
I'm also interested in finding someone who takes a more holistic approach—someone who respects our preferences, such as declining x-rays for personal reasons, and doesn't pressure us into orthodontic referrals unless truly necessary.
Looking for someone in El Cerrito, Richmond, Albany, Berkeley, Oakland area.
Jul 11, 2025
Parent Replies
I've used Dr. Laura Lawson on Solano for years, she's great with kids, and definitely more holistic minded.
Transendental by the Claremont Hotel is also great!
You might want to try Vasiliki Apostolou (Dr. Vicki) on Park Blvd. in Oakland. My 3 children and I have seen her for years, and she now sees my son-in-law and grandchild. If you let her know ahead of time about your child's anxiety, she will take extra care to make sure they're comfortable. With my grandchild, she prepared to go very slowly, but they felt so comfortable with her, they let her do an exam the first time. I have x-rays less often than is typically recommended, which Dr. Vicki is fine with, and we've had experience with orthodontic referrals with a couple of kids, one was medically recommended, the other was an aesthetic choice which we declined. Good luck!