We recently welcomed Dr. Amanda Kerns to the Charlotte Pediatric Dentistry family of doctors. Our Doctor Spotlight series allows our tiny patients and parents to get a glimpse into their doctor’s lives. Come get to know us!
Dr. Amanda Kerns is Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. She's a member of the American Dental Association, NC Society of Pediatric Dentistry, and American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. She received her BS in Biological Sciences at NC State University. She got her Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Chapel Hill. Her credentials, experience in the field, and positive attitude were exactly what Dr. David Moore was looking for when adding a new doctor to the team.
Getting to Know Dr. Kerns
We asked Amanda some questions in an effort to get to know her a little better. Here's what she had to say.
Why did you decide to focus on pediatric dentistry rather than general dentistry?
I’m basically a big kid at heart so I love that I get to interact with kids every day. The best feeling in the world is seeing a patient smile at the end of an appointment and knowing that I helped create a positive experience that will help them to be a happy dental patient throughout their life.
Have you always wanted to be a dentist? If not, what did you want to be as a kid?
As a child, I alternated between wanting to be a pilot or a veterinarian. I still love animals and getting my pilots license is on my bucket list to tackle in the next 10 years (though my husband says my driving has to improve before I can fly).
Why did you choose Charlotte Pediatric Dentistry?
My husband and I are both from Charlotte originally and after 6 years living out of the state of NC, we are so happy to be back home! CPD offers such an experienced and diverse team of dentists, hygienists, assistants, and patients that I felt at home right away!
Do you have kids (share ages, names, any cute details, and photos!)
My son, Jackson, was born in October 2020. So far he loves having dance parties with his Mama and Daddy and taking long walks around the lake.
What are some of your "tricks" to help ease kids' fears about their dental visits?
In my experience, the scariest part of the dentist is not knowing what to expect. I do my best to explain to all my patients exactly what we are going to do at each appointment. I let them see and touch everything and to call things by names that are easy to understand and not scary. When all else fails, positive reinforcement is usually successful. Who doesn’t love being told they are a good helper and will get lots of stickers and prizes if they keep following directions?
What's the best part of your day?
The best part of my day is coming home to see my family. We'll go for a walk and I'll tell them about all the crazy things my patients said or did that day. For example, one day I had a family that was speaking a language I did not recognize. In an effort to learn where the patient’s family was originally from, I asked her where her parents used to live. Without missing a beat, the little girl said, “In an apartment.” I couldn’t help but laugh. Pediatric dentistry can be is one of the most rewarding jobs in the world and it’s certainly never boring.
What's your favorite kids' show?
My favorite kids show is “Bluey.” I love that all of the episodes have little life lessons embedded and if you haven’t seen the flossing dance episode, you’re in for a treat!
What's your favorite color?
My favorite color is red because it reminds me of NC State.
Do you have a sweet tooth? If so, what’s your favorite sweet?
I have a huge sweet tooth. Smores will always be my favorite dessert because they taste delicious and they remind me of many happy times camping and hanging out at the fire pit.
Do you have role model or a mentor? Why do you look up to them?
My mother-in-law will always be my role model. She is one of the most thoughtful, kind people that I know and I am so thankful for her love and support. I know she will help mold my son Jackson into the best young man he can possibly be, while helping my husband and I stay sane in the meantime.
What is something you are passionate about outside of dentistry?
I love hiking, water sports, and traveling. From 2018-2020, my husband and I lived on Kauai, Hawaii and enjoyed some of the most incredible hikes in the world, experiences that we will always treasure.
Do you have a favorite sports team?
NC State basketball is near and dear to my heart. Watching UNC/NC State basketball games with my sister in law (a 2 time UNC grad) and my husband (a die hard NC State fan) have been known to get ugly.
Finish this sentence: When I was a kid...
I loved fishing with my dad! To this day, it’s something I love to do, as long as I don’t have to take the fish off the hook myself to throw them back.
