Smile Starters Dentistry

At Smile Starters, we are dedicated to delivering exceptional general dental services to thousands of underserved children and young adults throughout North Carolina. Our mission is to commit to excellence in the service of others while dedicating ourselves to the positive transformation of lives through dentistry. We believe that good dental health is an essential component of overall health, and we focus on preventative care to diagnose dental problems early.

Our entire staff works tirelessly to ensure that our young patients enjoy smiles that last a lifetime. We accept new patients and offer flexible appointment times to fit your busy schedule. We also accept most insurances and provide a convenient pay online option for our children's dental cleanings and services.

Our Services

We offer a wide range of services, including dental cleanings, sealants, composite restorations, hospital dentistry (available at select locations), comprehensive oral evaluations, fluoride and varnish treatments, amalgam restorations, nitrous oxide for nervous patients, limited oral exams and pain evaluations, and X-rays. Additionally, we provide stainless steel crowns to help protect and restore teeth.

Meet Our Lead Dentist: Rafael Rivera Jr., DDS

Dr. Rafael Rivera Jr., or Dr. Raf as he is known to his patients, is a self-described military brat who calls North Carolina home. After graduating from Westover Senior High in Fayetteville, NC, Dr. Rivera went on to study at UNC-Chapel Hill, earning a BA in Chemistry before completing his Doctorate of Dental Surgery at the UNC School of Dentistry.

Following graduation, Dr. Rivera served in the United States Navy, where he completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry and gained a healthy appreciation for Public Health Dentistry. His overseas tour in Japan solidified his passion for treating children, and since 2002, he has dedicated his professional career to children and young adults.

In 2008, Dr. Rivera purchased Smile Starters and immediately set to work fulfilling his aspirations to improve access to quality dental care for the underserved. He has served on several focus groups and committees aimed at furthering access to quality dental care for North Carolina's children. Dr. Rivera believes in accountability, ethical stewardship, and doing things the right way, the first time.

Dr. Rivera is a member of several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association, North Carolina Dental Society, Gaston County Dental Society, UNC Dental Alumni Association, and more. He has also participated in various community service projects, such as partnering with local Head Start Centers and the Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures program, and opening the Smile Starters doors to provide free dental service days.

In his free time, Dr. Raf enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, and pursuing his personal interests, including woodworking and metalworking. He is grateful for the fantastic team of dental professionals, auxiliaries, and administrative staff who support him in his mission to provide high-quality dental care to his patients.