Raised in Edmond, Oklahoma, Dr. Theresa White was drawn to pediatric dentistry as an opportunity to make positive changes in children’s lives. She has been in practice for 35 years and has treasured every child — and family — she has had the honor to meet and get to know.
As a pediatric dentist, Dr. White loves building connections with each of her young patients while watching them grow physically and emotionally. She finds it riveting to learn new things every day, thanks to children and all they share with her. She makes sure there is a lot of laughter during visits, along with education, using age- and development-appropriate language.
Dr. White especially enjoys the teaching aspect of practicing. When parents and children understand the importance of good dental health and preventing tooth decay, they make positive behavioral changes. Pediatric dentistry is all about establishing good dental habits early in life, starting with infants. These practices continue into adulthood, leading to lifetimes of beautifully healthy and happy smiles!
Education and Experience
- Bachelor of Science in chemistry – University of Oklahoma
- Doctor of Dental Surgery – University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry
- Pediatric Dental Residency and Master of Science – University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
In addition to her private practice, Dr. White taught dental and dental hygiene students pediatric dentistry at the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry from 1986-2016. She was a professor and chair of the Department of Pediatric Dentistry.
Now full-time in private practice at Southwest Pediatric Dental Associates, Dr. White loves spending her days surrounded by energetic, dynamic little ones! She is passionate about restoring children’s teeth and helping ensure they stay cavity-free.
In order to establish and maintain oral health, Dr. White and her team make sure that every visit is a positive and enjoyable experience, maintaining a safe and fun atmosphere. She wants her patients to look forward to coming to see her and to feel at ease in the dental environment.
Professional Affiliations, Activities, and Continuing Education
Dr. White achieved board certification in pediatric dentistry in 1994 and has served as an examiner for the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. She has the privilege of being the first female pediatric dentist in Oklahoma!
Currently, Dr. White is an active member of the:
- American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
- American Dental Association
- Oklahoma Association of Pediatric Dentists, past president
- Oklahoma Dental Association
- Oklahoma Association of Women Dentists, past president
- Oklahoma County Dental Association
- American College of Dentists, past secretary/treasurer of the Oklahoma Section
Throughout her career, Dr. White has sought out opportunities to further develop her knowledge. Continuing education keeps her up to date on best practices and provides information on the newest developments. She also refines her skills and learns new ways to provide high-quality dentistry with the least discomfort. With ongoing courses and training, Dr. White stays at the forefront of trends, techniques, the latest technologies, and emerging research.
Dr. White is well-versed in the best ways to face real-world challenges in her practice. Her goal is to create and maintain healthy and happy smiles with her patients. Continuing education allows her to do so!
Beyond the Practice
When Dr. White’s workday is over, she heads out to spend time with her husband at their home. They share their home with a cat named Boone, who is quite the character.
Time with family and friends is important to Dr. White and she makes the most of every opportunity to be with them. She particularly likes getting out of her comfort zone and trying new restaurants. She also loves being outside and enjoying the weather, reading mystery novels, cooking, and watching old movies.
Dr. White is very interested in architecture, with a great appreciation for the history and design of older structures. She and her husband enjoy antiquing especially when they find hidden treasures and learn the background of them.