Today we’d like to introduce you to Danielle Lockwood.
Hi Danielle, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
From a young age, I was always drawn to science. I participated in every science club I could find, competed in science fairs, and even spent my summers attending science camps. I knew I was interested in medicine, but I wanted to explore different paths before deciding where I truly belonged.
Dentistry was naturally familiar to me. My mother is a dentist, my grandfather was a dentist, and dentistry runs deeply on my mother’s side of the family, with more than 10 relatives graduating from Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry. Despite that strong family connection, there was never any pressure from my parents to follow the same path. It was through my own research, shadowing experiences, and exposure to the profession that I began to feel a genuine connection to dentistry.
I initially shadowed an orthodontist and loved the combination of science and artistry within the dental field. As I progressed through dental school, however, my interest in pediatric dentistry developed organically. I had always been drawn to working with children, and I realized that pediatric dentistry offered a unique challenge that really excited me. I loved finding creative ways to make children feel comfortable, using fun language to decrease fear, and turning what can sometimes be an intimidating experience into something positive and exciting.
After completing my pediatric specialty training, I spent more than 10 years working as an associate in pediatric dentistry. Eventually, I knew it was time to create something of my own and build a legacy within the specialty.
That is how Smiles For Kids Pediatric Dentistry came to life. I wanted to create a practice where children and parents feel welcomed, calm, supported, and informed throughout their dental journey. My goal has always been to provide exceptional care in an environment that is compassionate, inclusive, and centered around the individual needs of every child and family. That continues to be the mission behind Smiles For Kids today.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I have been incredibly fortunate to have the unwavering support of my family throughout my journey, especially my parents, sister, and brother. Their encouragement has played such an important role in helping me get to where I am today.
Overall, I feel very grateful. I have been fortunate to have my health and have not faced any major hardships beyond the everyday challenges that come with building a career, running a business, and navigating life.
At this stage, one of my biggest challenges is maintaining a healthy work-life balance while running a pediatric dental practice and raising my three children. Owning a business can easily become all consuming, so I am constantly working to be intentional about where I put my time and energy. I want to continue growing Smiles For Kids while also being fully present for my children and creating a life that feels fulfilling both personally and professionally.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
One of the things that originally drew me to dentistry was the artistry involved. I love that dentistry combines science, precision, creativity, and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in someone’s confidence.
One of my favorite procedures is rebuilding or “bonding” front teeth after a child has experienced dental trauma. I enjoy the aesthetic challenge of recreating the natural shape and appearance of a tooth, but what makes it especially rewarding is seeing a child feel confident enough to smile again.
That same creative side of dentistry also influenced how I designed Smiles For Kids Pediatric Dentistry. One of the most satisfying parts of building the practice was creating the physical space itself. I personally designed several decorative elements throughout the office, including wall pieces featuring moss, wood, and floral accents.
I was very intentional about creating an environment that feels calm, welcoming, and visually engaging without being overstimulating. Every detail was chosen with children in mind, particularly children who may be sensory sensitive. Some of the décor incorporates different textures that children can touch and explore, offering another form of sensory input while they are in the office.
What I am most proud of is that Smiles For Kids reflects both sides of what I love about pediatric dentistry: providing high-quality, individualized clinical care while creating an experience that helps children feel safe, understood, and comfortable. I think what sets us apart is the amount of intention that goes into every detail, from the language we use with children to the environment we have created around them.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up, I was someone who was interested in a little bit of everything. I have always been naturally curious and loved science from a young age. I attended science camps, participated in science fairs, and continued that interest academically through college, where I conducted research in organic chemistry at Saint Joseph’s University. During dental school at Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry, I also had the opportunity to participate in summer research through a grant from the Dean.
At the same time, I was very active and competitive. I played travel soccer for most of my childhood and continued through high school, where I also played field hockey. Sports were a big part of my life and taught me a lot about teamwork, discipline, and perseverance.
I also always had a creative side. I loved painting, took several art classes, and continued painting in college. Looking back, I think that creativity is part of what eventually drew me to the artistic side of dentistry.
Music was another huge part of my life. I loved to sing and participated in musicals whenever I had the opportunity growing up. In dental school, I was part of an a cappella group called the “Impressions,” and we had some incredible experiences, including singing the National Anthem for the Phillies and performing at special events for the dental school.
I think all of those interests, science, athletics, art, and music, helped shape who I am today. I have always enjoyed being challenged, being creative, and having different outlets in my life rather than fitting into just one box.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.smilesforkidsnw.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smilesforkidsnw/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smilesforkidsofficial/
