About Smile Shoppe Pediatric Dentistry Bentonville
Gentle care for kids
Smile Shoppe Pediatric Dentistry Bentonville cares exclusively for children, from those all-important first dental visits right through to school years and adolescence. Dr. Gardner and his team work with kids all day, every day, so they understand exactly how to treat growing smiles. They also know how to help each child feel comfortable throughout their visit. We understand how busy family life can be. We work hard to keep on schedule so you and your family aren’t left waiting unnecessarily.
Meet Russell Gardner
Dr. Gardner was born and raised in the Northwest Arkansas area, and he has finally returned home to serve the community he knows best. In high school, Dr. Gardner planned to become an engineer. Until he went on a mission trip to Honduras, that is. On that trip, he helped in the dental area of their mission. It opened his eyes to the world of dentistry and the impact it can have on people of all ages. It also showed him that dentistry gives him more of an opportunity to meet people, understand their needs, and better serve whatever community he is in. After much prayer and thought about the decision, he knows God opened the door for him to dentistry, and he has felt he is doing exactly what he was meant to do ever since.
Working with kids in dentistry is Dr. Gardner's focus. Setting those kids up for life to have a positive association with dentistry and a solid oral health foundation is always his goal. Also, kids are fun and tell the unvarnished truth, which often provides for a more lighthearted workday.
He began practicing dentistry in 2021 and in 2022, he started treating patients through public service work in a mobile dentistry outreach that served families in depressed communities in Kansas City. He also completed continuing education in oral conscious sedation.
Around the office, Dr. Gardner is known for his ability to explain treatment options to parents. Once a treatment path has been decided, he's great at explaining that treatment to his patients so they know what to expect and how to communicate during treatment so each child feels calm and in control of the situation.
Outside of the office, Dr. Gardner is glad to share the beauty of Northwest Arkansas with his wife Nancy and their children. He enjoys hunting, fishing, hiking, kayaking, and hanging out at their farm in Garfield. One thing many don't expect from Dr. Gardner is that he also plays the piano.
EDUCATION:
- Harding University, Bachelor of Science
- University of Oklahoma's College of Dentistry, Doctor of Dental Surgery
ASSOCIATIONS:
- Arkansas Dental Association
Meet the Team
The Smile Shoppe Philosophy
Calm, On-Time Visits
We keep appointments relaxed and friendly and make sure we stay on schedule.
Parents Know Best
We believe parents know their children best and welcome their input at every visit.
Happy Visits
Familiar faces, lots of encouragement, and a fun and relaxed space so your kids feel at ease.
A healthy start for growing smiles
Positive early experiences at the dentist can shape how children feel about dental visits in the years to come. Book your child’s next visit and set the tone for years of healthy habits.
