Fun, comfortable and safe experience awaits at The Kids’ Dentist
By Jillian Chandler
Photo by Samantha Elise Tillman
After moving to Gig Harbor five years ago with his wife and children, Dr. Brian Dansie saw the need in the area for a compassionate pediatric dentist. It didn’t take long for him to address this issue, as he introduced The Kids’ Dentist Gig Harbor to the community. Since opening in September of 2018, he and his staff continue to keep their young patients smiling.
“Dr. Brian loves working with kids and trying to make going to the dentist a fun and magical experience,” says Monica Anucinski, office manager.
According to Dr. Brian, creating a positive dental experience starts from the moment a child walks in the front door, from the artwork to the friendly greeting. “We designed the office to have a whimsical and magical feel that makes kids think it’s time to play,” he shares. “A relationship of trust comes from letting kids have a chance to feel like this is their time. We like to think that we are some of the best at making a child's dental appointment feel special. This hasn't changed for us even during the pandemic.”
At The Kids’ Dentist, patients and their parents are welcomed in a warm, friendly, fun environment. Providing pediatric care for children and teens, Dr. Brian and his staff provide preventative care, cleanings, sealants, fillings, restorative treatment, exams, and tongue and lip tie evaluations. The dentistry has sedation options available and works closely with local orthodontists to best treat orthodontic needs at the right time.
“We strive to make our office one that people would choose to go to. That means the best customer service we can provide,” says Dr. Dansie. “We pride ourselves in creating a ‘mom and pop’ shop practice.”
With the current pandemic still facing communities, The Kids’ Dentist has made it a priority to ensure additional safety precautions for their staff and patients. They have installed air filtration systems in treatment rooms; air throughout the clinic is filtered and replaced every 10 to 15 minutes through their HVAC system; glass barriers have been installed at the front desk and hygiene area; and the staff wears masks and gloves at all times, and wash and sanitize their hands between each patient. “I’m very proud at how well my staff strives to keep themselves and our families safe,” says Dr. Brian.
When it comes to what Dr. Brian believes has helped him in creating a successful dental office, he credits his experienced and compassionate staff, who shares his vision of creating a calming and enjoyable experience for their patients, as well as his parents, who set a wonderful example of being a good father and the joy of working with people.
“I think working with children takes a certain optimism. This has not been lost due to challenges we have met this year,” says Dr. Brian. “Our child-friendly staff still laughs and jokes and enjoys what we do. We also realize that many of these kids have not seen friends and classmates regularly. For that reason, we try our best to put a smile on their face when they come in.
“Even with a mask on, you can help ease fears and anxiety of the children and parents you meet.”
The team at The Kids’ Dentist takes pride in their ability to help children, and their parents, overcome the anxiety and fear that can sometimes be associated with a trip to the dentist.
Their care for children extends beyond the doors of the office, as Dr. Brian is a board member for Backpack 4 Kids, which provides food for children over the weekends and breaks—and is important now more than ever during the pandemic. Dr. Brian encourages those interested in donating or becoming involved to find out more at Backpack4Kids.org.
The Kids’ Dentist Gig Harbor
3316 56th Street, Suite 100
Gig Harbor, Washington 98335
253.329.5437