We are pleased to share important news with our Oahu ohana. We have opened our doors at Keiki Smiles of Leeward, and we look forward to embarking on a new journey dedicated to the oral health of children in Waipahu and throughout the island. Our team has invested significant time and effort into creating a pediatric dental practice that stands apart—a place where children feel safe and parents feel confident. Healthy smiles can flourish for a lifetime.
Our founding principle is simple yet strong: every child deserves a positive and empowering start to their dental health journey. We believe that visits to the dentist should not cause anxiety. Instead, they should be opportunities for learning, growth, and building trust. From the moment you enter our office, you will see and feel this commitment in action. We have designed a space that is not just a clinic, but a welcoming environment for infants, toddlers, children, adolescents, and individuals with special healthcare needs. We are committed to serving your family with compassion, expertise, and a genuine dedication to our work.
More Than a Dental Office: Our Vision for Keiki Health
When we envisioned Keiki Smiles of Leeward, we set out to create something beyond routine cleanings and fillings. Our goal was to establish a true dental home for the families of Waipahu, Waikele, Kapolei, Ewa Beach, and Pearl City. A dental home manages your child’s oral health in a comprehensive, continuous, and family-centered way. Here, you can build a lasting relationship with a dental team that knows your child, understands their unique needs, and partners with you to make the best decisions for their health.
Dr. Rawson's Philosophy of Care
Our practice is led by Dr. Audrey Navarro Rawson, a Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist whose path to dentistry is unique and profoundly influential. Before dedicating her career to pediatric dentistry, Dr. Rawson worked as a preschool teacher. That experience shaped her approach to pediatric care. She learned the importance of patience, empathy, and clear communication when working with young minds. She saw how encouragement and engaging, educational activities could change a child's entire outlook.
Dr. Rawson brings this educator's mindset to our practice every day. We do not just treat teeth; we teach children and their parents about the "why" behind our care. We explain concepts in ways that kids can understand, using direct language and positive reinforcement. Our team helps children take pride in their healthy habits and empowers them to take an active role in their own oral hygiene. This educational focus is central to our mission of preventing dental problems before they develop. As a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and Chief of Dentistry at Shriners Hospitals for Children, Honolulu, Dr. Rawson combines this compassionate approach with a commitment to clinical excellence.
Carrying on a Legacy of Trust
We are also honored to continue a long-standing tradition of pediatric dentistry at our location in the Waipahu Professional Center. We recognize the trust that families in this community have placed in the care provided at this address over the years. Our team is committed to upholding and expanding that legacy. We have combined decades of collective expertise with modern technology and a forward-thinking perspective to create the next evolution of children's dental care in West Oahu. We are here to provide continuity of care for existing patients and welcome new families into our growing ohana.
Our Comprehensive Approach to Pediatric Dental Care
We believe that effective dental care is proactive, not reactive. Our services are designed to build a strong foundation for lifelong oral wellness, focusing on prevention, early detection, and minimally invasive treatments. We work with you to create a personalized care plan that addresses your child's specific needs and supports their overall health.
Preventive and Diagnostic Services
Prevention is the cornerstone of our approach. Regular check-ups and cleanings are essential, but our preventive care extends further.
- Thorough Examinations: We conduct comprehensive oral exams to monitor the growth and development of your child’s teeth, jaw, and gums.
- Gentle Cleanings: Our skilled hygienists provide professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar from hard-to-reach areas.
- Fluoride Treatments & Sealants: We offer topical fluoride to strengthen enamel and dental sealants to protect chewing surfaces from decay.
- Digital X-Rays: We use low-radiation digital radiography for clear assessment below the surface, allowing us to detect potential issues at an early stage.
- Oral Hygiene Education: We spend time with every child and parent, demonstrating proper brushing and flossing techniques, and providing tailored tips for at-home care.
Restorative and Specialized Treatments
Even with diligent preventive care, dental problems can arise. When they do, we provide gentle, effective, and efficient restorative solutions. We take the time to explain all available options so you can make informed decisions about your child's care.
- Minimally Invasive Restorations: We prioritize treatments that preserve as much natural tooth structure as possible, ensuring a more conservative approach to dental care.
- Cosmetic Dentistry for Children: We address aesthetic concerns with solutions like tooth-colored fillings and bonding so your child can smile with confidence.
- Sedation Options: For children with significant anxiety or those who need extensive treatment, we offer safe and effective sedation dentistry options, including anesthesia, to ensure both comfort and safety.
- Emergency Dental Care: Dental emergencies can happen, and our team provides prompt and compassionate care, whether it's a knocked-out tooth or a severe toothache.
A Welcoming Place for Every Child
Inclusivity stands at the center of our practice. We dedicate special attention to providing excellent dental care for patients with special health care needs, including those with developmental or medical conditions. Our team receives training to foster a supportive and accommodating environment for every patient. We work closely with parents and caregivers to understand each child's unique requirements and tailor our approach to make each visit comfortable and successful.
Partnering with Parents for a Healthier Future
We view our relationship with parents as a partnership. You are the expert on your child, and we serve as your dedicated resource for their oral health. We encourage you to ask questions, share any concerns, and become an active participant in your child’s dental care journey. Together, we help keiki develop positive experiences with dentistry and build the habits needed for lifelong healthy smiles.
We appreciate the opportunity to serve the families of Waipahu and the surrounding communities. Our team stands ready to welcome you, listen to your needs, and provide the compassionate, skilled care your child deserves. We look forward to meeting you and your family soon and starting this promising journey together.
We are Keiki Smiles of Leeward, a locally owned pediatric dental practice at the heart of the Waipahu community. Our team protects the health and well-being of Oahu’s children by providing skilled, compassionate dental care in a fun and welcoming environment. We believe in building trust with every family we serve and are proud to partner with you in raising a generation of healthy, confident smiles. To learn more or schedule your child’s first visit, please call us today.
