Safari Smiles Dental
We’re WILD about SMILES!
What We Do
We serve Sonora, CA and surrounding communities for their dental needs for infants, children, and teenagers.
Why Us
We have a commitment to quality dental care and providing the best possible patient experience.
Hours and Location
Open 6 days a week
8am - 5pm
(209) 588-8400
800 Morning Star Dr
Sonora, CA 95370
Meet Dr. Richa Mishra,
With over a decade of experience in dentistry, Dr. Richa Mishra is known for her gentle approach, calming presence, and dedication to creating positive dental experiences for children. She believes lasting oral health begins with trust, education, and personalized care — helping every young patient achieve a healthy, confident smile.Education & Background
Dr. Mishra earned her dental degree from Himachal University in India, where she began her career caring for underserved communities and later served as a faculty member, teaching and mentoring future dental professionals. After moving to the United States, she completed a postgraduate dental program at New York University to earn her DDS, and went on to complete a Master of Public Health (MPH) at the University of California, Berkeley. This dual foundation in clinical dentistry and public health shapes her comprehensive, patient-centered approach to care.A Focus on Children
Since 2021, Dr. Mishra has dedicated her practice exclusively to pediatric dentistry, caring for children in both office and hospital settings. She has helped thousands of young patients — including those with dental anxiety, complex treatment needs, and special healthcare considerations — receive compassionate, high-quality care in a supportive environment.Roots in the Sonora Community
Dr. Mishra first connected with the Sonora community while practicing at TMWIHC from 2017 to 2019, and quickly grew to love the area's close-knit community and natural beauty. When the opportunity arose to continue the legacy of Safari Smiles, she knew it was the perfect fit. Today, she is honored to serve the families of Sonora and the surrounding communities with exceptional pediatric dental care. Families appreciate Dr. Mishra's warm, approachable nature and the time she takes to listen, answer questions, and help both children and parents feel comfortable and confident. Her goal is to create positive dental experiences — and healthy habits — that last a lifetime. Outside the office, Dr. Mishra enjoys spending time with her husband and young son, traveling, exploring new cuisines, and making memories through outdoor family adventures.Frequently Asked Questions
Pediatric Dentistry in Sonora, CAAnswers to the questions Sonora families ask us most. If you don't see yours here, [contact our office] — we're always happy to help.
Everyday Oral Health
1Are baby teeth really important if they eventually fall out?
Yes. Baby teeth help children chew, speak clearly, and hold space for permanent teeth. Keeping them healthy is important for your child's overall development.
2What causes cavities in children?
Cavities form when bacteria produce acids as they feed on sugars in food and drinks. Good brushing habits, regular dental visits, a balanced diet, and appropriate fluoride exposure all help prevent tooth decay.
3How much toothpaste should my child use?
- **Under age 3:** a smear or grain-of-rice–sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
- **Ages 3 and older:** a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
4What are dental sealants?
Dental sealants are thin protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. They help prevent cavities by shielding the deep grooves where food and bacteria tend to collect.
5Is fluoride safe for children?
Yes. When used appropriately, fluoride is safe and highly effective at preventing cavities. We'll help determine the right amount of fluoride for your child based on their age and individual needs.
6How can I help prevent cavities at home?
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss once a day.
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks.
- Encourage water between meals.
- Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings.
Getting Started: First Visits & Checkups
1When should my child first see a dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a first dental visit by your child's first birthday, or within six months of their first tooth erupting. Early visits help establish healthy habits and let us monitor your child's oral development from the start.
2How often should my child visit the dentist?
Most children do best with a routine exam and cleaning every six months. Some children may benefit from more frequent visits depending on their individual oral health needs.
3What can I expect during my child's first visit?
The first visit is all about helping your child feel comfortable and building a positive relationship with our team. We'll examine your child's teeth and gums, talk through oral hygiene, answer your questions, and give you personalized recommendations for healthy dental development.
4How can I prepare my child for a dental visit?
Speak positively about the dentist and avoid words that might create fear, like "pain" or "shot." Reading children's books about dental visits and scheduling appointments when your child is well-rested both help create a positive experience.
Dental Emergencies
1What should I do if my child has a toothache?
Rinse the mouth with warm water and gently brush around the area to remove any trapped food. Contact our office as soon as possible so we can identify and treat the cause of the discomfort.
2What should I do if my child knocks out a permanent tooth?
Hold the tooth by the crown (not the root), gently rinse it if dirty, and try to place it back in the socket. If that isn't possible, keep it in milk and contact our office immediately. Time is critical for the best chance of saving the tooth.
Comfort & Specialized Care
1What if my child is anxious about dental treatment?
Dental anxiety is common, and our team is experienced in helping children feel safe and at ease. We use a gentle, patient-centered approach and take the time to build trust with every child.
2Does your office treat children with special healthcare needs?
Yes. We're committed to compassionate, individualized care for children with special healthcare needs, and we work closely with families to ensure a positive experience.
3Does my child need dental X-rays?
Dental X-rays help us detect cavities, monitor growth and development, and identify issues that aren't visible during a regular exam. We use X-rays only when necessary and follow strict safety guidelines.
4What if my child needs extensive dental treatment?
We offer a range of treatment options and will discuss them with you in detail. For children who are very young, highly anxious, have special healthcare needs, or require extensive work, care under sedation or general anesthesia may be recommended.
Insurance & Appointments
1Do you accept dental insurance?
We work with many insurance plans and are happy to help you understand your benefits. Contact our office for specific coverage and payment information.
2How do I schedule an appointment?
Simply call our office or request an appointment online. Our team will help you find a convenient time for your child's visit.
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