Creating Smiles that Last a Lifetime
Diamond Head Children’s Dentistry is a gem of a dental practice tucked away at the base of Diamond Head, on Monsarrat.
Diamond Head Children’s Dentistry is a gem of a dental practice tucked away at the base of Diamond Head, on Monsarrat.
A visit to the child-friendly offices of Dr. Chris Yamada, D.D.S., will put any new patient or parent at ease. The reception is warm and inviting.
Children have miniature versions of the comfy adult chairs while they wait for “Dr. Chris,” as he is known. The procedure rooms are fun and fanciful, with planets and spaceships to underwater sea creature themes. Both rooms are equipped with TV and a bountiful supply of Disney shows.
There are also goodies in the treasure chest for children after their visits.
Diamond Head Children’s Dentistry loves children. Dental assistant Angie Loo is sweet and gentle, perfect for working with children. The rest of Dr. Yamada’s ohana includes office manager Kendra Wong, dental hygienist Aiko DeGerald, and brother and business partner Kevin Yamada.
They all understand that a first dental visit can be a bit intimidating for a child and parent; they do everything to make it and subsequent visits as comfortable as possible.
“I’m proud to say we’ve assembled a friendly, fun, gentle staff at Diamond Head Children’s Dentistry that shares a collective enthusiasm and compassion for caring for children,” say Dr. Yamada.
A polite local boy, Dr. Yamada is humble about his good deeds. He often visits schools and speaks to classes, and invites groups of students to his office for career days. According to office manager, Wong, Dr. Yamada challenges his team to come up with monthly community projects. Waikiki Elementary needed wall-mounted fans, so Yamada bought four. This month, they donated to Hawaii Foodbank; next month, they’ll donate toys to Lokahi. Dr. Yamada’s spirit and generosity are best illustrated in the story of “Jordan.” When Dr. Yamada and his brother Kevin coached football at Punahou, they met Jordan, a lively 14-year-old being raised by a single mother. Dr. Yamada saw great potential in him, and became a mentor and father figure. Jordan’s mother, Lori, says Dr. Yamada was always there for support and remains someone he seeks out for advice. Dr. Yamada taught him to play football and handle life’s challenges; his first job was a summer position with Dr. Yamada (after a rigorous interview).
He realizes his success won’t be measured until his young patients are grown. “We absolutely love what we do, and feel blessed to be able to have a positive impact on children’s lives,” says Dr. Yamada.
Dr. Yamada’s child-center approach has helped him to be named one of HONOLULU Magazine’s “Top Dentists” two years in a row.
Dr. Yamada and his team can show how good oral care and a positive dental experience can lead to happy, healthy smiles and children.
