Spanaway Children's Dentistry

Reviews

• SL

  Samantha Landry

  2 days ago
  1.0
  I’m disappointed to be writing this review because we’ve had such great experiences with Spanaway Children’s Dentistry in the past. Unfortunately, our last two visits have been very different, and I’ve decided to find another pediatric dentist for my son. The dental assistant we’ve had during both visits doesn’t seem particularly comfortable or patient when working with young children. I work at a children’s hospital, and I understand firsthand that it takes a special kind of person to work with kids. Patience, compassion, and understanding are incredibly important. During our appointment, she attempted X-rays using the hard bitewing plate, which can be uncomfortable even for adults. My five-year-old was clearly trying his best but struggled to hold it in place. She appeared visibly frustrated before eventually switching to a handheld X-ray. When it was time for his cleaning, the TV was displaying credits. My son asked if he could watch something, but she ignored him until I asked myself. Even then, she seemed annoyed by the request. I want to emphasize that my son did exceptionally well during his cleaning. He wasn’t crying, kicking, screaming, or refusing to cooperate. His only challenge was occasionally closing his mouth slightly and needing reminders to open wider. That was it. At one point, she rinsed his mouth without suction and appeared frustrated when he expressed that he needed to spit. He’s five years old, and I feel these are normal behaviors that deserve patience and understanding. Afterward, Dr. A informed me that my son had a cavity. As a parent, I already felt guilty hearing that news. She explained that they would not numb him for the filling, so I asked about options to manage his discomfort. Rather than discussing the possibilities, I was told not to stress or scare him. When I explained that I simply wanted him comfortable, she responded, “Well, I’m not putting him under. That’s ridiculous.” I was taken aback because I had never requested anesthesia, nor would I want unnecessary anesthesia for my child. I was simply asking about pain management. She eventually agreed that we could reconsider numbing if he became uncomfortable. At checkout, I learned the earliest available appointment was in April, nearly five months away, and was asked to pay an estimated amount upfront. I explained that my insurance benefits would be changing during open enrollment. While reviewing the estimate, I noticed nitrous oxide listed, which was surprising because the dentist never mentioned it during our conversation about comfort. When I questioned it, the front desk employee explained that nitrous isn’t numbing in a manner that felt dismissive. I understand the difference between nitrous oxide and local anesthetic. My concern was that an option to help my son feel comfortable had never been discussed. She attempted to get someone to clarify the treatment plan, but no one came. A subsequent insurance question was also met with a short, unfriendly response. I genuinely don’t know what has changed at this office. We used to have wonderful experiences here, which makes this disappointing. I don’t expect every appointment to be perfect, but I do expect a pediatric dental practice to show patience with children and communicate respectfully with parents. I advocate for children and families every day in my work, and I believe parents should feel comfortable asking questions about their child’s care without feeling dismissed. I’ve decided to find another pediatric dentist who can address my son’s cavity sooner and provide an environment where he feels comfortable and supported. It’s unfortunate because this used to be an office I genuinely trusted.
• MK

  Marissa Knowlton

  3 days ago
  5.0
  My kiddo has been going here since he was 1 year old and he’s five now! It hasn’t been an easy journey but they have been kind and patient with him. Arlett specifically does a great job taking the time to explain things and make my kiddo feel safe. Dr. A is also great! Very thankful for them :)
• AH

  Ashleigh Hendricks

  3 days ago
  5.0
  This was our first ever experience at Spanaway children’s dental. First off I want to say the atmosphere and employees in this office have such a warm demeanor. Compared to our last dentist office these people genuinely seemed to enjoy working with children. The dentist was extremely informative throughout the whole appointment and the dental assistance were great! I had three who had appointments yesterday and it was so efficient and quick we were in and out in about 35 min. My middle child needs some dental work done and they got us booked for the same week to get it fixed! They offered payment plans through a financing service and were extremely helpful and patient while I was figuring out what payment options would be doable for us as a family. Thank you so much Dr.A, Yenifer and Meghan, and lastly Heather for your wonderful attitudes and amazing service! You made us feel so welcome. Very happy with our switch
• KO

  Katie O’Meara

  5 days ago
  5.0
  Our dental assistant Megan was amazing! My son is autistic and I was very nervous bringing him in because he really doesn’t let anyone do anything in his mouth. It’s very hard to get him to cooperate, but Megan was very patient with him and got things done quickly which made our experience much better than I anticipated. The doctor that evaluated him was very efficient and informative and patient with my son as well. We will definitely be back!
• TL

  Tialaura Lunalaura

  Oct 12, 2026
  1.0
  It's important to know that most of these 5 stars are from the previous dentist that worked there, and that dentist truly does deserve 5 stars. He is now in New Zealand though and this has been bought out by another dentist. The new dentist lies about how many cavities your children need (trust me on this because I have now taken my kids to two separate dentists and they both confirm that the female dentist here is a liar). She is rude, needs to be reported, and is extremely uncleanly. Stay far away from here unless you want constant unneeded dental bills. Here are pictures from separate MORNING dental appointments (both sunny summer days). They don't clean. You can even see in some recent 5 star reviews photos how filthy their floor is. It never looked like that with the previous dentist.

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