Dental Cleanings and Exams

Close-up of smiling child with healthy teeth in Greater St. Louis.

Pediatric Dentistry for Kids in the Greater St. Louis Area

At Gateway Little Smiles, we proudly provide high-quality, child-focused general dentistry services throughout the Greater St. Louis region. With three convenient locations in Collinsville, St. Peters, and Ballwin, we’re dedicated to delivering comprehensive dental care specifically tailored to the unique needs of infants, children, adolescents, and patients with special needs.

Whether your child is visiting us for a routine checkup, preventive care, or specialized treatment, our friendly, experienced team is committed to ensuring every young patient has a comfortable, positive, and enjoyable dental experience. At Gateway Little Smiles, we strive to build healthy smiles and happy dental visits that last a lifetime.

What Is General Dentistry?  

General dentistry is the foundation of oral health care. It includes various services that prevent, diagnose, and treat dental issues. These services range from routine cleanings and exams to more advanced procedures like fillings, and crowns. General dentists are your primary oral health providers, equipping you with the knowledge and care needed to maintain optimal dental health.  

Why Is General Dentistry Important?  

Proper oral health does more than create a great smile—it supports your overall well-being every day. Dental Cleanings and Exams prevent cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss through regular professional care. Visit your dentist regularly for Dental Cleanings and Exams to catch and treat issues early. Early treatment reduces discomfort and helps you avoid complex or invasive dental procedures later on. A healthy smile boosts your confidence and positively affects your systemic health and overall wellness. Good oral health may reduce risks of conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and other serious illnesses.

General Dentistry Procedures We Offer  

At Gateway Little Smiles, we’re committed to providing comprehensive pediatric general dentistry throughout the Greater St. Louis area, including our convenient locations in Collinsville, St. Peters, and Ballwin. Our range of general dental services includes:

  • Routine Cleanings and Exams: The first line of defense against tooth decay and gum disease. These visits include a thorough cleaning to remove plaque and tartar and an exam to spot any early signs of dental issues.  
  • Digital X-rays: Our advanced X-ray technology ensures accurate diagnoses, allowing us to assess areas that aren’t visible during a regular exam.  
  • Dental Fillings: Whether you have cavities or minor tooth damage, fillings are a reliable solution to restore the structure and function of your teeth.  
  • Child Crowns: These restorations are used to repair or replace damaged or missing teeth, helping you retain a strong and beautiful smile.  
  • Oral Health Education: We believe in empowering you with the knowledge needed to care for your teeth at home, including tips for brushing, flossing, and maintaining a balanced diet.  

How to Prepare for Your General Dentistry Visit  

Your dental visit is an important step in maintaining optimal oral health. Preparing ahead of time can help make your experience smooth and stress-free. Here are a few tips to consider before your appointment:

  • Bring Necessary Information: If you’re a new patient, have your dental and medical history ready to share with our team. Don’t forget your insurance information if applicable.  
  • Write Down Concerns: Compile a list of any specific questions or dental issues so we can address them during your visit.  
  • Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brushing and flossing before your appointment ensures that your teeth and gums are clean, making it easier for our team to provide care.  
  • Relax: Our friendly staff ensures a welcoming and comfortable environment, so you’re in great hands no matter the reason for your visit.  

Why Choose Gateway Little Smiles for Pediatric General Dentistry in the Greater St. Louis Region?

At Gateway Little Smiles, we are a trusted choice for pediatric general dentistry in Greater St. Louis. Our team, led by Dr. Corey Hastings and Dr. Ashley, is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care. We welcome patients of all ages, from children to adults, and ensure that every visit is tailored to your needs.  

We go the extra mile to create a stress-free and enjoyable dental experience with amenities like streaming services during exams, noise-canceling headphones, toys for young patients, and even a gumball machine with fun prizes for kids. Additionally, we offer flexible payment solutions, including CareCredit financing so that you can prioritize your dental health without financial stress.

Schedule Your Visit Today  

If you’re looking for exceptional pediatric general dentistry in the Greater St. Louis area, Gateway Little Smiles is here to help! Dr. Corey Hastings and Dr. Ashley are passionate about delivering top-notch care in a welcoming, family-friendly environment. With advanced technology like digital X-rays, a focus on patient comfort, and a wide range of general dentistry services, we ensure your smile is always in good hands. Book your appointment today and take the first step toward a healthier, happier smile!

Turning 1? Time to come!

When Should Kids See a Pediatric Dentist?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a child’s first dental visit by age one or when the first tooth appears.

Early visits help:

  • prevent cavities
  • establish healthy oral habits
  • make dental visits feel normal and comfortable


Kids who visit the dentist early grow up with healthier habits and feel more comfortable with their dentist! If your child has celebrated their first birthday, they’re ready for a visit to Gateway Little Smiles!

We Have Three Convenient Locations!

At Gateway Little Smiles, the office amenities include TVs with streaming services, headphones for a personal experience, a variety of toys for fun breaks, a gumball machine with exciting prizes, and thoughtful goodie bags to make every day a little brighter.

Smiling child in outdoor setting symbolizing healthy smiles in Greater St. Louis.

We Love Our Patients!

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Jimmy Wilson
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Dr. Ashley and Ms. Teressa had me and my two kids in & out, with a quick but comprehensive appointment. Thank you!
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Chelsea Brown
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There so amazing
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AFineMess
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More than happy with all staff! They go above and beyond every day, and it shows!
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Randy Reitz
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Took my grandkids to this office today and was totally impressed with the service. Teressa, Zoe and Dr. Ashley were all kind, attentive and informative of their needs. It was a great experience.
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Alexandra Hurtado
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My daughter’s first dental appointment and we both had a great experience! Zoe was SO kind and made the experience less scary for my daughter and Dr. Culver was very knowledgeable and gentle with her as well! The entire office staff was really nice and welcoming. Definitely recommend for your little ones :)
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Grelissa Baker
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I love Gateway Little Smiles. Dr. Ashley was very patient, fun and personable.
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Kyesha Wilson
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I gave this place of business a 5 star because they are pretty awesome! However what i experienced today was a bit confusing. I took my 7 yr old for tooth extraction (first time ever getting a tooth pulled) when they came out to get him I was instructed to stay in waiting area..I proceed to ask why and was told “we try to do things without the parent “ now if you’re teaching independence I get it but, explain that to the parent and give them that option still . Mind you there were 3 parents after me that went back with their children , My son went back without me and ended up soiling himself which has never happened (he’s 7). I was not pleased, he told me beforehand that he was scared. Will I still recommend this place? Absolutely! But I will be verbal next time about going back with my son. I do want to mention I spoke to the front desk about it and she offered for me to go back but my attitude wasn’t in the right place. I believe if I went back with him he would have never peed himself.
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Nicole Picotte
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They are so great with kids! Even when my daughter was scared they made her feel better!
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Reva Reeder
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We absolutely love going here!