About Us
- About One Tooth Pediatric Dental
Board-Certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry (ABPD)
Some children walk into a dental office ready to explore. Others need time, reassurance, or a gentle introduction before the visit begins. One Tooth Pediatric Dental was built around these everyday realities. We pay attention to how each child responds — their expressions, their comfort level, their questions — and shape the visit around what helps them feel settled. Families across Annapolis often tell us that care here feels clearer, kinder, and easier to navigate, no matter the child’s age or needs.
How One Name Shapes Everything We Do
Parents sometimes ask, “What makes a good pediatric dentist?” For us, the answer goes back to the meaning behind our name. “One Tooth Pediatric Dental” reminds us that small things carry weight — the first moment a child feels understood, the way instructions are explained, the extra minute we give to help them adjust. These everyday choices influence how children feel about returning for future visits. Our name simply keeps us focused on those little moments that guide a child’s comfort over time.
Our Purpose & Direction
Mission: To support children as they grow, offer families clear guidance they can rely on, and make trusted pediatric dental care easy to access for households across Annapolis.
Vision: To build a dental home where children of all backgrounds receive steady, development-aware care that strengthens confidence, comfort, and long-term oral health.
What One Tooth Pediatric Dental Stands For
Respect for Every Child
Each child brings their own personality, learning style, and comfort level. Our approach adjusts to them — not the other way around.
Welcoming All Families
Children with medical, developmental, sensory, or behavioral needs are cared for with patience and flexibility. No child is “difficult” here.
Care Backed by Training
Every recommendation is shaped by pediatric-specific experience and research. We do only what a growing child’s smile genuinely needs.
Emotional Awareness
Some parts of a dental visit can feel unfamiliar. We notice what helps children relax — their questions, their signals, their preferences — and meet them where they are.
Clarity for Every Parent
Many parents search for “What should parents expect at a pediatric dental office?” We answer that with honest explanations, practical guidance, and updates at every step.
Learning Through Connection
Healthy habits form slowly. We teach in ways that feel doable in real life — simple steps, realistic routines, and encouragement that sticks.
From Dr. Akshay V. Kolluri
“In my early training, I often wondered, ‘How do pediatric dentists help anxious children?’ I noticed that kids changed the moment someone spoke to them in a way they could understand. Their grip on the chair loosened. Their breathing slowed. They watched more closely. What they needed wasn’t speed — it was someone willing to meet them at their comfort level.
As the years went on, those moments shaped my direction. After caring for so many children, Annapolis felt like the right place to build a practice centered on understanding, steady communication, and evidence-based care. One Tooth Pediatric Dental was created so children could feel seen for who they are — not compared to one another, not rushed, and never judged. Everything we recommend is meant to help them feel safe today and confident tomorrow.”
How We Care for Children Who Feel Nervous
Parents often ask what helps kids feel more at ease during dental visits. Over time, we’ve learned that the way we plan each step makes a big difference. Here is how we support them:
- We explain things in simple, child-friendly language
- We pause whenever a child needs a moment
- We involve parents to strengthen comfort
- We create choices that help children feel in control
- We use gentle techniques designed specifically for little ones
If your child struggles with fear or sensory challenges, our Sedation Dentistry page may help you explore comfort options.
Our Commitment to Inclusivity & Accessibility
Every child deserves dental care that respects their needs. We welcome children with:
- Sensory sensitivities
- Autism or developmental differences
- Behavioral needs
- Medical conditions that require modified care
- Anxiety or past difficult experiences
Our team adjusts communication, timing, and environment so families feel supported from the very first visit.
How We Give Back to Annapolis
We believe strong communities begin with informed, supported families — and we’re proud to contribute to that growth. Beyond daily care, our team participates in:
- Local school dental awareness programs
- Health fairs and family events
- Educational visits in early-childhood centers
- Outreach for families needing dental guidance
- Support for children needing hospital dental care
What Makes Our Approach Different
Every clinic has tools and training — what families notice is how their child is treated. Our approach focuses on the small, everyday details that shape trust.
Warm Welcomes
Children are greeted gently, never rushed. We begin slowly so they can settle in, look around, and feel comfortable before anything dental-related is introduced or explained.
Simple Language
We replace medical terms with words children understand. Clear explanations help little ones follow what’s happening, reducing surprises and helping parents stay informed without confusion.
Predictable Steps
Visits follow a familiar order, so children know what’s next. Predictability helps reduce uncertainty and creates a sense of ease, especially for children who rely on structure.
Comfort Choices
We offer small choices — a flavor, a position, a break — to help children feel involved. These options give them a sense of control during the visit.
Gentle Transitions
We move from one part of the visit to the next slowly, giving children time to adjust. Soft pauses help prevent overwhelm and keep the experience manageable.
Steady Communication
Parents receive clear updates during and after the appointment. We outline next steps, answer questions openly, and ensure families leave knowing exactly what comes next.
You’re Not Doing This Alone
When a child needs dental care, parents feel just as much as little ones do. Most parents even look for “Who is the most trusted pediatric dentist in Annapolis?”
That search often ends when they meet Dr. Kolluri, Dr. Kim, and other staff members, whose steady reassurance and thoughtful explanations help families feel prepared instead of overwhelmed.
