Meet Dr. Stafford

Michelle D. Stafford, D.D.S. is a Board Certified pediatric dentist. This means that she completed an additional two years of training after dental school in an accredited pediatric residency program to become a pediatric dental specialist. Throughout this two year program she cared for children of all ages and especially children with special needs such as: autism, cerebral palsy and cleft lip/palate. This hospital based residency provided a safe environment to treat the dental needs of children under general anesthesia, conscious sedation and/or nitrous oxide. She chose this specialty because she believes that every child deserves to have a positive experience going to the dentist.

After her training she decided to pursue becoming board certified. Therefore, she completed a written examination followed by an oral examination by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry that determines the proficiency of pediatric dentists. Only about 47% of practicing pediatric dentists are board certified. She now proudly practices as a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.

“Dr. Stafford and her staff do a great job at making my daughter comfortable at her dental visits. My daughter actually enjoys coming to the dentist now!” ~ Mary, patient’s mother

Dr. Stafford attended University of the Pacific in Stockton, California for her undergraduate studies. In 2001, she graduated from the Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry with her doctorate in dental surgery. After practicing in the San Francisco Bay Area for five years, she moved to Michigan to attend the Children’s Hospital of Michigan Pediatric Dental Residency Program.

“Mom, if I ever have children, and I am planning on it, if they need to go to the dentist, I’m bringing them straight to Dr. Stafford.” ~ Jessiah, age 8

In July 2008, Dr. Stafford fulfilled her dream of opening her own pediatric dental practice in Portland/Beaverton, Oregon. Since she holds both a Class 1 and 2 permit, Dr. Stafford is able to provide treatment for her patients at World of Smiles, Pediatric Dentistry with nitrous oxide or conscious sedation when necessary. Primarily, she focuses on educating families on the importance of establishing early healthy oral habits that will last a lifetime.

“World of Smiles is a great place! The staff is friendly and very nice. Dr. Stafford is very patient and she makes my children feel comfortable. I would definitely recommend World of Smiles to my friends and family.” ~ Sylvia, patients’ mother

Dr. Stafford enjoys hiking, pilates and exploring the Portland area. Some of her other hobbies include photography, biking, traveling and learning about different cultures. She has incorporated her love of travel into World of Smiles, Pediatric Dentistry. The office’s interior serves as a gallery for artwork and photography from around the world.

Your child’s journey toward superb oral health begins when you walk through the door at World of Smiles, Pediatric Dentistry.