Finding the right dental provider for your family in Oahu takes careful thought and effort. You want a team that understands both the technical aspects of oral health and the unique needs of our island community. We believe trust and communication form the foundation of excellent dental care. When you look for a new dental home, you do more than schedule appointments; you establish a relationship that supports your family’s health for years to come.
Every family has different priorities. You might need a convenient location in Kapolei or Waipahu, specialized pediatric care, or a practice that accepts your specific insurance plan. You benefit from asking the right questions and knowing which signs of quality to look for during your search. By focusing on credentials, atmosphere, and communication style, we help you navigate the many options and find a dental home where you feel comfortable and cared for.
Evaluating Credentials and Experience
Start by checking the dentist’s professional background. Education and ongoing training show how well a dentist provides high-quality care. In Hawaii, dentists must meet strict practice standards, but many professionals go above and beyond these basics. We encourage you to seek practitioners who are members of respected organizations such as the American Dental Association (ADA) or the Hawaii Dental Association (HDA). These memberships often show a commitment to learning the latest dental technologies and safety protocols.
Experience makes a real difference, especially when working with young patients or handling complex dental needs. Ask about a dentist’s specific experience with the procedures your family might need. For example, if you have young children, choose a provider who understands the unique developmental stages of children's mouths. Pediatric dentistry includes specialized training to address the dental needs of infants, kids, and teens.
What to Look For:
- Board Certification: Does the dentist hold board certifications in a specialty?
- Continuing Education: Does the practice mention seminars or advanced training?
- Years in Practice: How long has the office served the Oahu community?
- Professional Memberships: Do they participate in local or national dental societies?
Assessing the Office Atmosphere
The atmosphere in a dental office shapes your family’s experience. We believe dental visits should be positive, not stressful. When you visit a potential office or review its photos online, take note of the details. Does the waiting area look clean and welcoming? Does the front desk staff greet you warmly? For families with children, a kid-friendly office can transform a nervous visit into a joyful experience. Offices designed for children include smaller chairs, bright colors, and entertaining activities like books or games to help kids relax.
Key Environmental Factors:
- Cleanliness and Sterilization: Does everything look spotless and organized?
- Child-Friendly Amenities: Are there comforts and distractions for kids?
- Staff Interaction: Does the team answer your questions with patience and kindness?
Understanding the Range of Services Offered
Convenience makes a big difference for busy families in Oahu. You can save time and stress by choosing a dental home that offers comprehensive services in one place, rather than driving across the island to different specialists. Review each dentist’s service menu to make sure the office meets your family’s changing needs. While general dentists handle regular cleanings and fillings, you might eventually want orthodontic advice, sealants, or emergency care.
Your ideal dental office should emphasize preventive care. Preventing dental issues before they start helps maintain strong oral health. Choose a practice that invests time in teaching you and your children proper brushing and flossing techniques. Make sure they provide preventive treatments such as fluoride and dental sealants. If your family wants or needs sedation dentistry, the right practice will explain those options in detail for anyone with dental anxiety or for children who find it hard to sit through longer appointments.
Services to Check For:
- Preventive Care: Exams, cleanings, fluoride treatments, sealants
- Restorative Treatments: Fillings, crowns, and nerve treatments
- Emergency Care: Help for urgent dental problems like toothaches or injuries
- Special Needs Care: Experience serving patients with special healthcare needs
Your Partner in Oral Health
Choosing the best dentist in Oahu means focusing on your family’s unique values and needs. We believe you deserve a dental practice that meets those needs through strong credentials, a welcoming atmosphere, and a broad range of quality services. A great dentist does more than treat your teeth; they partner with you to improve your overall well-being. When you find a practice that matches your expectations, dental visits blend naturally into a healthy routine for your entire family.
Take a moment to read other local families’ reviews, call the office with your questions, or set up a consultation to meet the team. Your family’s smiles and lasting health are worth the time and care. By choosing a supportive, professional, and well-equipped dental home, you make sure every smile in your family receives the attention it deserves.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric Dentistry
When should my child first visit the dentist?
You should schedule your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or within 6 months of the appearance of their first tooth. Bringing your child early helps us monitor growth, check for signs of decay, and ensure your child feels comfortable in the dental office. These visits focus on prevention and teaching, providing a solid start for lifelong oral health.
How often should my child see the dentist for check-ups?
We recommend dental check-ups every 6 months for children, in line with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry's standards. Regular visits let us build your child’s health history, catch early problems, and perform professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar. If your child faces a higher risk for cavities or has special oral health needs, we may ask you to come in more frequently for the best care.
We at Keiki Smiles of Leeward proudly care for families throughout Oahu, providing skilled and compassionate dental care for children and teens. For more information or to schedule a visit, please reach out to us so we can support your child’s dental health journey.
Each winter, Oahu’s North Shore transforms into a vibrant community celebrating some of the most exhilarating surf contests in the islands. Locals and visitors alike gather to watch elite surfers challenge nature’s mightiest waves at legendary spots like Waimea Bay, Pipeline, and Sunset Beach. The atmosphere is electric—crowds cheer, breakers thunder, and everyone shares in the anticipation and celebration.
Of course, surf competitions are just one highlight. A visit during contest season means you can wander glorious beaches, taste delicious plates from local eateries, and explore the charming shops in historic Haleiwa Town. Whether you’re here for a single competition or a whole week of fun, we’re excited to provide everything you need to make your North Shore experience unforgettable.
North Shore Surf Competition Details
Surf action really heats up on the North Shore from late September until April’s end. This annual window features Hawaii’s most famous wave events, making the area a true hub for surfing’s global community. If catching a contest live is your dream, your best bet is to visit Oahu during these months.
North Shore competitions run a bit differently from other sports. Nature holds the schedule, so flexibility is a must! That’s why we’ve included key details and outlined how everything works—so your trip can be smooth and memorable.
Understanding How Surf Competitions Work
Surfing contests here hinge on ideal ocean swell conditions within a set "waiting period"—an event may have a two-to-three week window, but it only runs when waves are just right. Event officials monitor wave height, quality, and weather daily, ready to give a green light when it all lines up. Once underway, the contest typically finishes in a couple of days.
The athletes compete in heats, usually lasting 20 to 40 minutes, with two to four surfers per heat. Judges award points for style, difficulty, and execution, using a 10-point scale for each ride. Only a surfer’s two best-scoring waves count toward their heat total. After each round, the top performers move on, and the rest are eliminated, repeating the process until the champion is crowned. For order and fairness, a priority system ensures every participant has a fair shot at the best waves.
Tips for Watching the Contests
Attending a North Shore surf contest is pure joy—and a little planning makes it even better! Arrive early, especially for huge events, since parking fills quickly around famous breaks like Pipeline. Heavy traffic on Kamehameha Highway is common, so bring your patience and allow for extra travel time. We recommend packing beach snacks, cold drinks, protective hats, and plenty of sunscreen to stay happy and comfortable.
Each morning of the waiting period, organizers announce if the contest is a go based on the day’s surf forecast. Checking event sites and official social media channels before heading out is the best way to avoid surprises and ensure you don’t miss any action.
Upcoming Competition Schedule
The North Shore’s surf calendar is filled with epic events. Bear in mind that the precise dates may shift due to wave conditions within the waiting periods. For up-to-date information on the daily status, always refer to the official surf contest calendar.
Haleiwa International Open
Date: December 22, 2025 - January 3, 2026
Location: Haleiwa Beach Park
The Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational
Date: December 7, 2025 - March 6, 2026
Location: Waimea Bay
Vans Pipe Masters
Date: December 8 - 20, 2025
Location: Ehukai Beach Park (Banzai Pipeline)
Da Hui Backdoor Shootout
Date: January 4 - 16, 2026
Location: Ehukai Beach Park (Banzai Pipeline)
WSL Championship Tour - Sunset
Date: February 10 - 19, 2026
Location: Sunset Beach Park
We Hope to See You There
Few experiences capture the spirit of Hawaii like gathering on the North Shore for surf season. Whether you’ve followed pro surfing for years or this is your first contest, the energy is infectious, and the memories last a lifetime. At Keiki Smiles of Leeward, sharing this special community tradition is one of our favorite things. We hope our tips help you soak up every wave, cheer, and smile next season!
Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric Dentistry
When should my child first see a dentist?
Experts recommend scheduling your child’s first dental appointment within six months of their first tooth erupting—or by their first birthday at the latest. Early visits help us monitor growth, provide gentle guidance, and help kids feel right at home in the dental chair.
How can I protect my child's teeth during sports?
If your child is active in sports like surfing, a custom mouthguard is the best way to protect their smile. A well-fitted guard cushions teeth, lips, gums, and jaw from injuries. Our team can fit your child with a comfortable, effective guard tailored just for them.
We at Keiki Smiles of Leeward are honored to care for children's dental health in a bright, supportive atmosphere. Serving families across Leeward Oahu, our mission is to create positive, lasting dental habits for every keiki. If you’d like more information or want to set up an appointment, please reach out to us.
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.
At Keiki Smiles of Leeward, we’re excited to introduce our newly redesigned website – a vibrant and user-friendly online experience built with you and your family in mind! You can explore it at https://www.keikismilesleeward.com/. We’ve created this digital hub to be a valuable resource, offering accessible information and streamlining the way you connect with our practice and support your child's oral health journey. Whether you’re browsing on a desktop, tablet, or smartphone, our site adapts seamlessly to provide a smooth, engaging experience.
A Colorful & Convenient Experience
When you visit our website, you’ll be greeted by a cheerful design and a welcoming color palette, reflecting our commitment to creating a positive and comfortable environment for our young patients. We’ve focused on intuitive navigation, making it easy to find the information you need quickly and efficiently. This responsive design ensures a consistent, user-friendly experience no matter how you choose to access it.
Beyond aesthetics, we’ve packed the website with valuable resources to help you understand everything from common childhood dental concerns to preventative measures and the procedures we offer. Our frequently asked questions section addresses common parental queries, while dedicated pages detail our approach to care, our team, and the services we provide. We believe in being a true partner in your child's oral health, and this website is an extension of that commitment.
Meet the Team Dedicated to Little Smiles
At the heart of Keiki Smiles of Leeward is a team of passionate and skilled professionals dedicated to providing exceptional care. Leading our practice is Dr. Audrey Rawson, a board-certified Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Rawson uniquely combines her expertise in both pediatric and general dentistry with a deep understanding of early childhood development. This allows her to connect with children on a personal level, addressing both their dental and emotional needs.
Dr. Rawson received her training at UCLA and has devoted her career to nurturing healthy smiles in children. Her warm, approachable demeanor sets a positive tone for our practice, fostering an atmosphere of trust and comfort.
Dr. Rachel Thai is a compassionate and dedicated pediatric dentist who believes in making dental visits a fun and positive experience for every child. Born and raised in Los Angeles, California, Dr. Thai values the strong sense of family and community that shaped her, and embraces her proud Chinese, Filipino, and Vietnamese heritage. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) degree from the University of the Pacific and completed advanced training in pediatric dentistry through NYU Langone Dental Medicine in Hawaii, following a residency in Advanced Education in General Dentistry. Dr. Thai has a heart for service, participating in dental mission trips to Mexico, Vietnam, and the Philippines, and has enjoyed treating young patients across the Hawaiian Islands. She is committed to creating a warm and welcoming environment where children feel safe and excited about their dental health. Outside of the office, Dr. Thai enjoys cooking, crafting, hiking, and spending time at the beach with her husband and family.
Dr. Tian He brings a wealth of experience and a passion for pediatric dentistry to our team. Originally from Shanghai, China, Dr. He immigrated to New Jersey as a young child and pursued her education on the East Coast, attending Columbia University and Rutgers University School of Dental Medicine. She completed her pediatric dental residency at St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children in Philadelphia before taking a leap of faith to move to Oahu in 2016. Dr. He is committed to providing safe and individualized care using the newest technologies and materials, and has over a decade of experience providing comprehensive dental care—including for children with special needs—under general anesthesia at Kapiolani Medical Center. When she's not in the office, Dr. He enjoys traveling with her husband, exploring new cuisines, binge-watching videos (especially Kdramas and Cdramas), scuba diving, underwater photography, and supporting local boba shops!
Together, our team champions a unified philosophy of compassionate, family-centered dental care, believing that every child's smile deserves to be nurtured and celebrated. We look forward to welcoming your family and partnering with you to create a lifetime of healthy smiles!
A Comprehensive Approach to Growing Smiles
We are proud to offer a full spectrum of dental care tailored to children at every stage of development, from infancy through adolescence. We also specialize in providing thoughtful and individualized care for children with special needs, ensuring that every child receives the attention and support they deserve.
“We understand that a trip to the dentist can be daunting for young patients,” explains Dr. Rawson. “That's why we prioritize creating a positive and educational experience. Launching this new website is a natural extension of that commitment, offering parents the tools and knowledge they need to confidently support their child’s oral health at home."
Services Designed for Little Ones
We’ve designed our services to meet the unique needs of growing children and provide you with the resources to foster healthy smiles at home. Here’s a glimpse of what we offer:
- Tooth Development & Guidance: Understand the stages of tooth eruption and shedding, and learn how to care for emerging or loose teeth.
- Early Intervention & Prevention: We’ll guide you in establishing healthy oral hygiene habits from infancy, setting the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
- Preventive & Diagnostic Care: Regular check-ups, cleanings, and x-rays help us identify and address potential issues early on.
- Cosmetic Dentistry for Kids: We can help restore chipped teeth and enhance the natural brightness of their smiles.
- Restorative Dentistry: From fillings to crowns, we provide gentle and precise treatment to restore dental health.
- Comfort & Anxiety Management: We offer various sedation options for more complex procedures or children with dental anxiety, ensuring a comfortable experience.
- Special Needs Dentistry: We provide personalized care tailored to the unique needs of every child, creating a safe and comfortable environment.
- Orthodontic Evaluations: We can assess bite alignment and provide early orthodontic intervention when necessary.
- Emergency Dental Care: We prioritize urgent care to address dental emergencies quickly and alleviate discomfort.
Everything we do is guided by our commitment to empowering children and supporting parents in creating a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Why This Website Matters to You
From easy online appointment scheduling to a comprehensive library of educational resources, we’ve thought of everything to make your busy life a little easier.
You’ll find helpful tips on preparing your child for their first visit, discover effective ways to prevent cavities during holidays, and much more. By empowering families with this knowledge, we hope to help you establish healthy habits that last a lifetime.
Schedule Your Visit Today!
We’re honored to be part of your child’s dental health journey. Whether you explore our new website or visit us in person, you’ll discover a practice dedicated to combining expertise with genuine compassion.
If you’re ready to schedule a visit or have any questions about our services, please call us at 808-698-5191 or visit our new website at https://www.keikismilesleeward.com/.
We can’t wait to welcome you to the Keiki Smiles of Leeward family – together, we’ll help your child achieve a bright, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime!
