Pediatric Dental Specialist in Gilbert, Arizona
Grow. Smile. Shine.
Helping Little Smiles Thrive in Gilbert
As pediatric dental specialist, Dr. Mark Van Duker and his team consistently provide compassionate, expert care for children's smiles. Our mission is to create a generation of kids that love going to the dentist! We strive to exceed parents' expectations when they trust us with their children. We understand coming to the dentist may be stressful, so we built a calm, inviting office to put the whole family at ease.
Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist
Meet Dr. Mark Van Duker
Dr. Mark is passionate about providing compassionate, high-quality care to every child. That is why he opened Ascend Pediatric Dentistry. Over thirty percent of adults have dental anxiety leading to delayed treatment. By creating a fun and empathetic office, he hopes kids grow up without that fear.
Dr. Mark grew up in Gig Harbor, Washington to parents who were an anesthesiologist and anatomy professor. He remembers his mother always making sure he went above and beyond in science classes.
He completed undergraduate education at Brigham Young University. While there he volunteered for a non-profit serving children with special needs that grew his passion for kids dentistry and special needs dentistry. He completed dental school at the University of Washington, ranked as a top 10 dental school in the world. There he authored multiple publications, received several awards, and volunteered for mobile dentistry serving migrant farmers. Then he completed a 2-year pediatric residency at Children's National Hospital in Washington, D.C., a top 5 children's hospital in the U.S. There he managed complex special needs dentistry and trauma cases. He is among a small percentage of dentists who are board-certified pediatric dentists, with the expertise to provide care for your child at all ages.
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Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist
Why Choose Ascend?
As the name implies, we are passionate about exceeding your expectations. Kids dentistry is like a triangle, with the three points being the child, parent, and provider. We provide high-quality care, involve parents with informed decisions, and care for children with patience and empathy so that all three points of this triangle are working fantastically together. Together, we can make your child's experience fun, interactive, and comfortable.
Family owned
Dr. Mark's children helped design the office so it is kid-approved! The waiting room kitchenette was his wife's idea and the rainbow logo is based on his son and daughter's drawings, favorite shape, and favorite colors. On a deeper level the rainbow also represents patient care in an inclusive, nonjudgemental way. The iPads, prize tower, and ceiling t.v.'s are his son's favorite part of going to the dentist. His daughter loves picking fun flavors for cleaning her teeth. The blue esthetic was his daughter's favorite color and brings a calming presence to the office.
Kids dentistry requires consistency. At Ascend, you can expect continuity of care with your kid's dentist. Dr. Mark and his team are here to help!
Preventive Dentistry
Our preventive dentistry treatments help keep your child's teeth and gums healthy while reducing the risk of cavities and other dental issues.
Restorative Dentistry
Our goal is to inform parents of dental findings and help them make the best decision for their child. If treatment is indicated, we will do so with empathy and compassion. We offer a variety of options based off of individual needs.
Dental Sedation
We know that some children may feel anxious about dental visits. That's why we offer dental sedation options to help your child relax and feel more comfortable during their treatment.
Special Needs Care
Our team is experienced in providing compassionate, tailored care for children with special needs. We take the time to understand your child's unique needs and work closely with you to ensure a positive, empowering dental experience.
Our Difference
Why Choose Us?
At Ascend Pediatric Dentistry, we stand out by providing exceptional, comprehensive care tailored to your child's unique needs.
Board-Certified Provider
After completing dental school, Dr. Mark completed an additional two-year pediatric dentistry residency at Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C. This included rigorous training, written and oral board exams for pediatric dentistry, and annual CE requirements. All of this means better quality care to your child.
Compassionate Care
As parents ourselves, we want children to have a positive association with dentistry. We will treat your children the way we would want ours to be treated. We lead with compassion, empathy, and quality care. Our goal is to create adult dental patients who love going to the dentist.
In-House, Comprehensive Services
We offer a wide range of services in-house, so your child can receive all the care they need in one comfortable, familiar location. From routine check-ups and cleanings to dental emergencies, sedation dentistry, and infant frenectomies, our team is equipped to handle all your child's dental needs. This comprehensive approach saves you time and ensures continuity of care.
Relaxing, Kid-Friendly Atmosphere
Our office is designed with children in mind, featuring a warm, inviting atmosphere that helps put them at ease. Throughout their visit, we offer amenities like cozy blankets, pillows, and their choice of entertainment to help them feel relaxed and comfortable.
