six ways we keep kids smiling
Specialized care for every stage of childhood
From your baby's first tooth to your teenager's last check-up, our team is trained to meet every child where they are with gentle, expert treatment.
Cleanings & Exams
Comprehensive dental cleanings, fluoride treatments, and thorough exams every six months.
- Professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup
- Fluoride treatments to strengthen developing enamel
- Digital X-rays with significantly reduced radiation exposure
- Thorough exam of teeth, gums, bite, and jaw development
- Sealants to protect cavity-prone molars
- Personalized oral hygiene coaching for kids and parents
Infant Dentistry
Gentle first visits for your little one. See us by the first tooth or first birthday.
- First dental visit by age 1 or first tooth (AAPD recommended)
- Gentle, lap-to-lap exam with parent involvement
- Assessment of developing teeth, gums, and bite
- Early cavity risk assessment and prevention plan
- Guidance on teething, pacifier use, and bottle habits
- Education on infant oral hygiene and nutrition
Special Needs Dentistry
Adaptive techniques and individualized care from doctors with specialized residency training.
- Both doctors have specialized residency training in special needs care
- Adaptive techniques tailored to each child's abilities
- Sensory-friendly environment with adjustable lighting and pacing
- Individualized behavior guidance and desensitization visits
- Collaboration with caregivers, therapists, and medical teams
- Sedation and hospital dentistry options when needed
Dental Emergencies
Call us immediately. Both doctors available after hours for urgent dental needs.
- After-hours emergency availability from both Dr. Balster and Dr. Pfohl
- Knocked-out, chipped, or fractured teeth
- Severe toothache or dental abscess management
- Soft tissue injuries to lips, gums, or tongue
- Same-day emergency appointments when possible
- Phone guidance to help you manage the situation before your visit
Hospital Dentistry
For children who need care beyond the traditional office setting, at St. Luke's.
- Full dental treatment under general anesthesia at St. Luke's Hospital
- For children with extensive treatment needs or severe anxiety
- Ideal for very young patients or those with special healthcare needs
- Complete treatment in a single visit while your child sleeps comfortably
- Board-certified anesthesiologist manages sedation
- Coordinated pre-op and post-op care with our team
Minimally Invasive Dentistry
Silver Diamine Fluoride, Hall Crowns, and no-drill options to preserve natural teeth.
- Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) to arrest cavities without drilling
- Hall Crowns placed without shots or drills
- Interim therapeutic restorations for young or anxious patients
- Focus on preserving natural tooth structure
- Evidence-based approach aligned with the latest research
- Reduced need for sedation and hospital visits
every smile tells a story
Let us help write your child's
why parents trust us
The numbers speak for themselves
15+
Years of experience
Serving Cedar Rapids families with specialized pediatric dental care since 2007.
5
Star rating
Consistently rated 5 stars by the families who trust us with their children's smiles.
2
Board-certified specialists
Both Dr. Balster and Dr. Pfohl are board-certified pediatric dentists with specialized residency training.
not sure which service your child needs?
We will guide you every step of the way
Call us or schedule a visit. Our team will assess your child's needs and recommend the right care plan.