Finally, a Pediatric Dentist Who "Gets" Your Child
Tired of condescending dentists who don't understand sensory sensitivities? Dr. Annikka specializes in all children (from special needs to neurotypical) and actually listens to parents. Your child will leave smiling, not traumatized.
- Stanford grad & Board Certified - Top 3% nationally on ABPD exams
- Avoids anesthesia when possible - offers gentle alternatives
- TVs streaming Peppa Pig/Cocomelon, picture menus for toothpaste
- Worth the 30-45 min drive (parents' words, not ours!)
Book Your Child's Visit
Emily A.
If I could give Dr. Annikka 10 stars, I would. We have seen quite a few pediatric dentists and she is by far the best we have worked with.
What makes her different: 1) She understands the risks/tradeoffs of using anesthesia for dental work in very small children and offers alternatives to avoid it; 2) She is AMAZING at working with children who have sensory challenges, difficulty sitting still, and potentially uncooperative behavior, such as SPD/ASD/ADHD; 3) She takes the time to talk with families about treatment options in complex situations (in one case even having a half-hour phone call with me on her day off!); 4) She listens to parents/families and respects their views about dental care interventions; 5) She keeps things fun and interesting for kids, taking time to understand their individual tastes and interests and allowing the dental appointment to revolve around those things.
My child, who has needed a lot of dental work over the years, loves Dr. Annikka and immediately noticed the difference when we tried going to someone else after Dr. Annikka moved from her previous practice. Her new location at Lake Sammamish Kids Dentistry is a long drive for us (30-45 minutes) but it is worth every minute to get to see such a fantastic dental professional.
Award-Winning Pediatric Dentist with Published Research
Not All Pediatric Dentists Are Created Equal
See why parents drive 30-45 minutes to bring their kids here (even when closer options exist).
What Makes Dr. Annikka Different
She's not just treating teeth. She's changing how kids (and parents) feel about dental visits.
Patient, Gentle Approach
Understands that a "difficult" child isn't being difficult, they're overwhelmed. Adapts her approach to each child's unique needs, allowing breaks, offering headphones, and meeting them where they are.
Parents Are Partners
No condescending lectures. Dr. Annikka spends real time explaining options, weighing risks vs. benefits, and respecting YOUR knowledge of your child. She genuinely cares about helping anxious parents feel confident.
Avoids Unnecessary Interventions
Minimally invasive dentistry isn't just a buzzword here, it's her specialty. She offers alternatives to anesthesia for young children when safe and appropriate, and focuses on prevention first.
Makes It FUN
Picture menus so kids choose their toothpaste flavor. TVs streaming Peppa Pig and Cocomelon. Bright, colorful office with toys. Dr. Annikka tailors appointments around your child's interests, not a cookie-cutter approach.
Sammamish Native & Working Parent
Dr. Annikka grew up right here and is a working parent herself. She gets the juggle, the guilt, the worry. You're not just another appointment to her—you're her neighbors.
Actually Affordable
$440/year in-house plan beats most insurance "discounts." 2 exams, 2 cleanings, x-rays, fluoride, emergency exam. Everything your child needs. No hidden fees. No surprises.
Meet Dr. Annikka
I have a special interest in minimally invasive dentistry and caries prevention. But beyond the technical stuff, what drives me is seeing a child who's had traumatic dental experiences finally relax in the chair. When parents tell me their autistic child actually ASKED to come back for their next visit, or that their anxious kiddo didn't cry this time, that's why I do this work. Every child deserves to feel safe, heard, and respected. And every parent deserves to be treated as a partner, not lectured.
Dr. Annikka, DDS • Stanford Graduate • Sammamish Native • Working Parent
More Parents Who Drove 30+ Min (And Said It Was Worth It)
Real Google reviews from real families on the Sammamish Plateau.
Stephanie Payne
Dr. Annika is a gem of a dentist. Our son is autistic and we've had some really tough experiences finding the right dentist on the plateau, including some visits with incredibly condescending dentists. Dr. Annikka is the absolute opposite. She was SO good with my son, so non-judgmental, and did a great job explaining options. The office is bright, clean, and lively - they have optimized everything for kids. Seriously, there's no better dentist on the plateau.
Tenille Hockenbury
After a traumatizing dental experience for my son at his last dentist, this feels like a breath of fresh air! The assistant Ashley was so kind, patient, and gentle with him and Annika was fast and to the point which was great. The office is clean and very kid friendly. So happy to have found you guys!
Lindsay Luhrs
My son went here for his first ever dentist appointment. The staff is super friendly, patient, knowledgeable, and amazing with kids. It was wonderful that they met him on his level and made him feel comfortable. We were nervous going into the appointment, but the nerves quickly faded. 100% recommend them for your kid's dentist!
Colleen Roberts
My kiddos LOVE Dr. Annikka. We have been twice now and both have been smooth, happy, playful and educational visits! Took my then 1.5 year old for her visit and it was so easy! She was thrilled to walk back in for her next 6 month cleaning. My 4 year old asks to stop by whenever we are in the Pine Lake complex. Such a wonderful experience!
Our Bright, Kid-Friendly Space
Clean. Colorful. Designed to make kids feel excited (not scared).
Questions Parents Ask Us
Honest answers to what you're really wondering.
My child had a traumatic experience at another dentist. Will this be different?
Yes. Multiple parents have told us their child refused to go to the dentist after a bad experience, and then Dr. Annikka changed everything. She moves at your child's pace, allows breaks, uses distraction techniques (TVs, toys, fun toothpaste flavors), and never forces anything. We've had kids who cried through entire appointments elsewhere actually ASK to come back here.
My child is autistic/has SPD/has ADHD. Will this be okay?
Absolutely. This is Dr. Annikka's specialty. She understands sensory sensitivities, doesn't take "uncooperative" behavior personally, and works WITH your child's needs (not against them). Parents of special needs kids drive from all over the Plateau specifically to see her.
What's included in the $440 membership plan?
Everything your child needs for preventive care: 2 exams, 2 cleanings, x-rays, fluoride treatments, and 1 emergency exam. No insurance needed. No hidden fees. It's designed for busy families who want straightforward, affordable care.
Do you accept insurance?
We work with most major dental insurance plans. However, many families find our $440 membership plan is actually a better value than their insurance co-pays and deductibles. We'll help you figure out which option works best for you.
Where are you located?
We're in the Pine Lake area on the Sammamish Plateau. Many families tell us they drive 30-45 minutes to see us (and that it's worth every minute). Check our website for the exact address and directions.
What does "minimally invasive dentistry" mean?
It means Dr. Annikka focuses on prevention first (fluoride, sealants, education) and avoids unnecessary procedures. When treatment IS needed, she uses the least invasive option that's still effective. She also offers alternatives to anesthesia for young children when appropriate and safe.
When should I bring my child for their first visit?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a first visit by age 1 or within 6 months of the first tooth erupting. Early visits help establish positive associations with the dentist and catch any issues before they become problems. Plus, Dr. Annikka makes first visits fun and stress-free!
Book Your FREE Consultation Today
No more traumatic dental visits. Just expert, compassionate care that makes your child smile, not cry.