Your Neighborhood Pediatric & Orthodontic Dental Care Home
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(703) 519-7275
Locations & Opening Hours
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224 N Fayette St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Monday
9 AM - 5 PM
Tuesday
9 AM - 3 PM
Wednesday
9 AM - 5 PM
Thursday
9 AM - 6 PM
Friday
8 AM - 3 PM
Saturday
Closed
Sunday
Closed
(703) 519-7275
Our Services
Dental Exams
Teeth Cleanings
Preventive Care
Braces
Fillings
Extractions
Crowns
Root Canal
Periodontal Treatments
Fluoride Treatment
Sealants
Orthodontics
Teeth Whitening
Cosmetic Dentistry
Bonding
Oral Cancer Screening
Emergency Care
Mouthguards
Night Guards
Restorative Dentistry
Invisalign
Traumatic Dental Injuries
Sedation
Pediatric Dentistry
Our Doctor
Brush Up on Our Dentist's Expertise
Dr. Kesha Stephenson DDS, Board Certified Pediatric
Dr. Stephenson, a native of the Caribbean island of Dominica, has called the DC Metro Area her home for many years. She received a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Biology from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore and worked in biomedical research before deciding to pursue a career in dentistry. In 2006 Dr. Stephenson received her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from Howard University. In 2007 she completed a residency in Advanced Education in General Dentistry from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. During and after her residency she had the opportunity to work with the underserved children and special needs population in Florida and Washington, DC. This experience sparked a desire to specialize in the field of pediatric dentistry. In June of 2011 Dr. Stephenson completed her Pediatric Dentistry Residency at Howard University; where she held the position as chief resident, earning her the Pediatric Dentistry Award for Outstanding Leadership and Academics. In 2013 she became board certified in Pediatric Dentistry.
In addition, she holds memberships in the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, College of Diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association, and the International Association of Pediatric Dentistry.
As one of five children, Dr. Stephenson values the importance of family and believes in treating every patient as if they are her own. She also strives to give her patients optimal care and the best experience possible at every visit by understanding the importance of patience and compassion. In addition, she enjoys traveling, the performing arts, and spending quality time with family and friends.
In addition, she holds memberships in the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, College of Diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association, and the International Association of Pediatric Dentistry.
As one of five children, Dr. Stephenson values the importance of family and believes in treating every patient as if they are her own. She also strives to give her patients optimal care and the best experience possible at every visit by understanding the importance of patience and compassion. In addition, she enjoys traveling, the performing arts, and spending quality time with family and friends.
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Dr. Heidi Vatanka Board Certified Pediatric
Dr. Heidi Vatanka graduated from dental school at the University of Oslo, Norway in 1997. Upon graduation, she worked as a general dentist in Norway and in the United Kingdom providing comprehensive dental care to children and adults. Her passion for children’s dentistry matured while working as a general dentist for over ten years. In pursuit of her goal to become a children’s dental specialist, she enrolled in the Pediatric Dentistry Postdoctoral Program at Howard University College of Dentistry. In June, 2011 she graduated at the top of her class and received the Pediatric Dentistry Award for demonstrating academic excellence and overall clinical proficiency.
She is a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist and is the recipient of the Richard C. Pugh Achievement Award honoring the top three percent scores of the May 2011 Qualifying Examination. Dr. Vatanka’s international experience in dentistry brings a unique perspective to pediatric dental care. She has a gentle and conservative approach to dental treatment with an emphasis on prevention of dental problems in children. She believes in making every child’s dental visit a positive experience in order to ensure a lifelong positive attitude to dental and oral health.
She is affiliated with the following professional organizations: College of Diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry · American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry · American Dental Association · International Association of Pediatric Dentistry · Norwegian Dental Association.
Dr. Vatanka is married, has a son and a daughter and resides in Alexandria. In her free time she enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, playing soccer and has just started learning to play the piano.
She is a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist and is the recipient of the Richard C. Pugh Achievement Award honoring the top three percent scores of the May 2011 Qualifying Examination. Dr. Vatanka’s international experience in dentistry brings a unique perspective to pediatric dental care. She has a gentle and conservative approach to dental treatment with an emphasis on prevention of dental problems in children. She believes in making every child’s dental visit a positive experience in order to ensure a lifelong positive attitude to dental and oral health.
She is affiliated with the following professional organizations: College of Diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry · American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry · American Dental Association · International Association of Pediatric Dentistry · Norwegian Dental Association.
Dr. Vatanka is married, has a son and a daughter and resides in Alexandria. In her free time she enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, playing soccer and has just started learning to play the piano.
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Dr. Alan Savage DDS
Dr. Alan Savage is a native of Richmond, VA and currently resides in the Washington DC Metropolitan area. Dr. Savage graduated from Hampton University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, TN and completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at the Bay Pines VA Medical Center in St. Petersburg, FL.
Dr. Savage received his postdoctoral specialty training in Orthodontics at Howard University in Washington, DC. He has been the recipient of various awards throughout his training including the Orthodontic Biomechanics Award and Pediatric Dentistry award. In addition, he was chosen to be a guest lecturer at the 2015 National Dental Association conference. He is an active member of the American Association of Orthodontics, American Dental Association, Mid-Atlantic Society of Orthodontists, Virginia Dental Association, National Dental Association, and Continental Orthodontic Study Club.
Dr. Savage regularly participates in continuing education courses to keep up with the latest technology, research and developments in Orthodontics. He is committed to providing the highest quality of treatment to improve his patient’s oral health and esthetics.
In his free time, Dr. Savage enjoys playing tennis, bowling, and spending time with family and friends.
Dr. Savage received his postdoctoral specialty training in Orthodontics at Howard University in Washington, DC. He has been the recipient of various awards throughout his training including the Orthodontic Biomechanics Award and Pediatric Dentistry award. In addition, he was chosen to be a guest lecturer at the 2015 National Dental Association conference. He is an active member of the American Association of Orthodontics, American Dental Association, Mid-Atlantic Society of Orthodontists, Virginia Dental Association, National Dental Association, and Continental Orthodontic Study Club.
Dr. Savage regularly participates in continuing education courses to keep up with the latest technology, research and developments in Orthodontics. He is committed to providing the highest quality of treatment to improve his patient’s oral health and esthetics.
In his free time, Dr. Savage enjoys playing tennis, bowling, and spending time with family and friends.
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Insurance & CareCredit↗
Coverage to Smile About
Our office welcomes many types of dental insurance. We will be happy to assist you with any questions you have regarding your insurance before your visit. We also accept many types of payments including cash, check and all major credit cards.
Financing is also available through care credit.
If you have questions concerning the financial aspect of your visit, our office administrators are always willing to answer your questions and address your concerns.
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How we serve you better
Where Science Meets Smiles
Ultrasonic Scalers
Allow dentists to remove plaque and calculus (tartar) more efficiently and comfortably than manual scaling, resulting in faster and more effective dental cleanings.
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Digital X-Rays
Digital radiography reduces radiation exposure and provides high-quality images for better diagnosis.
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Intraoral Camera
Capture detailed images inside a patient's mouth, helping them better diagnose issues, document conditions, and educate patients.
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TV on Dental Chairs
Provide entertainment and distraction for patients during dental procedures, helping to reduce anxiety and make the experience more comfortable.
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Handheld X-ray unit
Portable device used in dental offices to capture diagnostic radiographic images of patients' teeth and surrounding structures.
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Panoramic X-rays
A comprehensive, 360-degree view of the entire mouth, teeth, jaw, and surrounding structures in a single image, enabling better diagnosis for various dental conditions.
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Nitrous Sedation
Helps anxious or fearful patients feel relaxed and comfortable during dental procedures, making it easier for both the patient and dentist to complete necessary treatments.
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HEPA Air Purifiers
Capture airborne particles, including aerosols, bacteria, and viruses produced during dental procedures, helping to protect both staff and patients from potential infections.
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Prophy-Jet Polishers
Uses pressurized water and sodium bicarbonate to effectively remove stains, plaque, and debris from teeth while being gentler than traditional polishing methods.
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Intraoral Scanner
Create precise 3D digital impressions of patients' teeth without using messy putty materials, leading to more accurate restorations.
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Soft Tissue Laser
Enables more precise, less invasive procedures with reduced bleeding, faster healing times, and often less need for anesthesia compared to traditional dental tools.
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Zoom Whitening
Offer patients a fast, professional-grade teeth whitening treatment that can brighten teeth by several shades in just one office visit.
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Cephalometric X-rays
Analyze facial growth, airway problems, and jaw relationships to better plan treatments like braces or jaw surgery.
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Noise-Canceling Headphones
Help reduce patient anxiety and discomfort by blocking out the unsettling sounds of dental procedures, such as drilling and suction.
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Digital Smile Design Software
Helps dentists virtually plan and visualize cosmetic dental treatments by manipulating digital images of patients' teeth to create predictable aesthetic outcomes.
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Air Abrasion
Minimally invasive dental technique that uses a stream of fine particles propelled by compressed air to remove decay and prepare teeth for restorations.
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Single Tooth Anesthesia (STA) System
Deliver precise, computer-controlled local anesthesia to individual teeth with less pain and anxiety for patients compared to traditional injections.
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Dental Loupes
Provide dentists with enhanced magnification and precise visualization during complex procedures, leading to improved accuracy and better patient outcomes.
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Computerized Pain-Free Injection System
Delivers local anesthetic at a precisely controlled flow rate to minimize discomfort during dental procedures.
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Icon Procedure
A minimally invasive dental treatment that uses resin infiltration to treat early cavities and white spot lesions without drilling.
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Autoclave Sterilization
Uses high-pressure steam to kill harmful bacteria, viruses, and spores on dental instruments, ensuring patient safety and preventing cross-contamination between procedures.
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Memberships, Affiliations, and Awards
Coverage to Smile About
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Gallery
serving smiles
Testimonials
OUR CROWING ACHEIVEMENTS
100+ reviews
"Dr. Vatanka and her entire staff are phenomenal!! My daughter has special needs and they treat her with respect and utmost care. What could be a trying experience is an actual pleasure. Kindness, understanding and thorough care. Highly recommend"
Rebecca H.
"I’ve been bringing my children to Parker-Gray for over 4 years and they have always been professional and courteous. Dr. Savage and the staff answers all of my questions and makes the process of scheduling care very easy."
Kimberly F.
"Parker-Gray Pediatric Dental has been absolutely amazing! From the initial consultation, to the Front Desk & Dr. Savage with his Assistant Angels in the back🙏🏽 We are so grateful for the care and service you all provide our Dj! Highly recommended🤩"
Ronda W.
"Parker-Gray is always great! The waiting room has items to keep young ones occupied until the appointment starts. The dental hygienists are excellent with the kids and the dentists are great as well. Exams and cleanings are thorough. My kids always love picking a prize at the end!"
Christina C.
"My 5 children have come here for years. My youngest is 12 and loves his visits. The experience is comfortable and they have been very accommodating. I couldn't recommend Parker Gray Dental enough. Top notch friendly staff and service."
Khadeeja S.
"Dr. Stephenson is excellent with all of my kids, but particularly patient and helpful with my daughter who gets incredibly anxious about even basic cleanings. All of the staff we've interacted with, from the front desk to the dental assistants, have been great. We've been going for at least 5 years now."
Ashley H.
Blog
Tooth be told
FAQ
Questions
At what age should my child first visit the dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children should have their first dental visit by their first birthday or within 6 months after their first tooth appears, whichever comes first.
How often should my child have dental checkups?
Children should visit the dentist every 6 months for regular checkups and cleanings. However, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits based on your child's individual oral health needs.
Are dental X-rays safe for children?
Yes, dental X-rays are safe for children. Modern dental offices use digital X-rays that emit very low radiation levels. Additionally, protective lead aprons and thyroid collars are used during X-rays to minimize exposure. X-rays are only taken when necessary for diagnostic purposes.
How can I prevent cavities in my child's teeth?
To prevent cavities: 1) Maintain good oral hygiene, brushing twice daily and flossing, 2) limit sugary foods and drinks, 3) use fluoride toothpaste, 4) consider dental sealants, 5) maintain regular dental checkups, 6) encourage healthy eating habits, and 7) supervise brushing for young children.
At what age should my child get an orthodontic evaluation?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, there's a mix of baby and permanent teeth, allowing orthodontists to identify potential problems early.
Is Invisalign suitable for children/teens?
Invisalign can be suitable for teens, and there's even a specific product called Invisalign Teen. However, eligibility depends on various factors, including: 1) the type and severity of orthodontic issues, 2) the patient's maturity and responsibility level, 3) whether all permanent teeth have erupted, and 4) your orthodontist can determine if Invisalign is appropriate for your child's specific case.
Do braces hurt?
While braces don't hurt during application, you may experience some soreness for a few days after getting them and after adjustment appointments. This discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
