Menomonie New Patients : (715) 600-9004 | Existing Patients : (715) 235-7566
Durand New Patients : (715) 230-3838 | Existing Patients : (715) 672-3366
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Family dentist for all your dental care needs in Menomonie and Durand, WI

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Finding the perfect family dentist to provide your family’s dental care can be tough, but from the moment you walk into the office at Gentle Dental Care at either of our locations in Menomonie and Durand, WI, you’ll know you are in the right place. From our warm and relaxing environment and friendly, gentle care techniques to our use of the latest technologies designed to deliver better care and more comfortable patient experiences, every member of your family will love coming to see us. We take great pride in having you trust us with your family’s dental needs.

Care for all ages

At Gentle Dental Care, Drs. Emily Andre and Frankie Thatcher along with our team of dental professionals are experienced in providing dental care to people of all ages. From the youngest of patients to the young at heart, we understand the changing dental care needs for each stage of life:

  • Toddlers and young children: We enjoy helping lay the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles by helping form positive attitudes about dental care from an early age. With age-appropriate preventive care such as sealants and specialized services designed to ensure that your child’s mouth is developing properly, we love helping our youngest patients flourish.
  • Teenagers: As children grow into their teenage years, they become more susceptible to tooth decay and oral hygiene issues. This is also the time of life when orthodontic treatment to straighten your child’s teeth and correct any bite issues is very common. We take the time to earn your teenager’s trust and develop a plan to keep their smile healthy as they move into adulthood.
  • Adults: From routine dental cleanings to cosmetic dental care the team at Gentle Dental Care is here for you.We want to help you achieve the beautiful, healthy smile you’ve always wanted. We work with each patient to create a personalized preventive care plan to keep your teeth and gums healthy and offer a wide array of services to enhance your smile or restore its health.

Experience the benefits of a family dentist

When everyone in your family sees the same dentist, everyone benefits. We can work with you to schedule your family’s appointments on the same day to minimize your driving, saving you time and money. In addition, when your child sees you leading by example and enjoying your time at the dentist, they are more likely to develop a positive mindset about the experience.

If you are in the Menomonie, Durand, Eau Claire, Baldwin, or Colfax area, call Gentle Dental Care today at (715) 600-9004 to schedule your appointment

Frequently Asked Questions about Family Dentistry.

What is family dentistry, and how is it different from general dentistry?

Family dentistry focuses on providing comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages, from young children to seniors. Unlike general dentistry, which may cater primarily to adults, family dentists offer a wide range of services tailored to the unique needs of every family member. Our doctors provide preventive, restorative, and cosmetic treatments to ensure lifelong oral health for the whole family.

At what age should my child have their first dental visit?

The American Dental Association recommends that children see a dentist by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears. Getting your child to the dentist at an early age will help your child establish proper oral hygiene habits, prevent cavities, and ensure proper dental development. Our doctors create a welcoming, stress-free environment to help young patients feel comfortable and develop positive associations with dental care.

What services does a family dentist provide?

A family dentist offers various services, including routine cleanings, dental exams, fillings, crowns, orthodontic evaluations, and gum disease treatment. Our doctors also provide education on proper oral hygiene and preventive care to help families maintain healthy smiles. Comprehensive care is available for all ages, whether for a child’s first visit or an adult’s restorative treatment.

How can I help my child feel comfortable at the dentist?

Helping children feel at ease starts with a positive attitude. Talk about dental visits in a fun, upbeat way, read books or watch videos about friendly dentist experiences, and bring them to early checkups with our doctors to help build familiarity and trust. Gentle Dental Care’s warm, kid-friendly environment ensures a relaxed experience, making visits enjoyable for young patients.

How often should my family visit the dentist?

The American Dental Association recommends dental checkups every six months for most patients. Regular visits allow our doctors to detect and treat issues early, preventing more serious dental problems. Some patients, such as those with gum disease or a history of cavities, may need more frequent visits. Routine care ensures long-term oral health for the entire family.

What are the benefits of choosing a family dentist?

A family dentist provides convenience, continuity of care, and a personalized approach to dental health. Families can schedule multiple appointments on the same day, saving time. Having one trusted dentist for all ages ensures a consistent dental history and a deeper understanding of each family member’s unique needs. Our doctors build long-term relationships with patients, promoting lifelong healthy smiles.

Does family dentistry include cosmetic treatments?

Yes, many family dentists provide cosmetic procedures like bonding, veneers, and tooth whitening in addition to preventive and restorative care. Our doctors provide aesthetic dental solutions to enhance smiles while ensuring optimal oral health. Whether addressing stained teeth, minor imperfections, or orthodontic concerns, cosmetic dentistry can benefit adults and teens looking to improve their confidence.

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Gentle Dental Care, the family dentistry in Menomonie, WI is a partnership between Emily Andre DMD, NMD, IBDM and Frankie Thatcher DDS.

Dr. Emily Andre, DMD, NMD, IBDM, is a trusted practitioner at Gentle Dental Care. A Durand, Wisconsin native, she completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, and earned her DMD from the University of Florida, College of Dentistry. Dr. Andre specializes in mercury-free dental practices, ensuring a safe, toxic-free environment for her patients. Her commitment to high standards and patient safety underscores her reliability and expertise in dental care. Dr. Andre is eager to provide exceptional care and build lasting relationships with the Menomonie community.

Dr. Frankie Thatcher, DDS, is a dedicated practitioner at Gentle Dental Care. Hailing from Glenwood City, WI, she earned her bachelor’s degree from Concordia University St. Paul and her DDS from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry. While in dental school, Dr. Thatcher was actively involved in student groups and served as vice president of her class. Having been a patient of Dr. Andre for years and shadowing her, Dr. Thatcher chose Gentle Dental Care for its exceptional standards. You can trust Dr. Thatcher to provide expert and compassionate dental care.

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