Dr. Aarika Dawn Anderson Elter, DMD
Pediatric DentistryNPI: 1396976239
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About This Provider
Dr. Aarika Anderson Elter is a board-certified pediatric dentist with 17 years of experience caring for children in Tacoma. She completed specialized training through the University of Washington's LEND Fellowship and earned her dental degree from A.T. Still University, where she also received certification in dental public health. Dr. Anderson is deeply committed to making dental visits comfortable and educational for kids, and she has created her practice to welcome families from all backgrounds—including those with special healthcare needs. She serves as Clinical Director for Special Olympics Special Smiles and works with American Indian and Alaska Native communities at Puyallup Tribal Health Authority. A Lakewood native and mother of three, Dr. Anderson brings compassion, expertise, and a genuine dedication to helping every child feel safe and confident at the dentist.
Specialties
- 1
Education & Training
- LEND Fellowship, University of Washington (2018)
- Doctor of Dental Medicine, A.T. Still University- Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health (2009)
- Certificate in Dental Public Health, A.T. Still University- Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health (2009)
- Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, California Lutheran University (2005)
- AAPD Leadership Institute, Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University
- Pediatric Dental Residency, NYU Langone-Yakima program (2018)
Board Certifications
- Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, 2019
Credential: DMD
NPI registered: 07/27/2009
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Areas of Focus
Technology & Equipment
- Digital X-Rays
- Intraoral Scanner
- LightScalpel CO2 Laser
- Sedation options
- Sensory-friendly office
Professional Memberships
- American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD)
- Washington State Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (Past President)
- Western Society of Pediatric Dentistry (WSAPD Trustee)
- ARCORA Foundation's CDE Advisory Committee
- Evergreen Pediatric Dentistry Study Club
Awards & Recognition
- First-ever Western District Leadership Intern
Beyond the Office
Clinical Director for the Special Olympics Special Smiles Healthy Athletes Program
Pediatric dentist at Puyallup Tribal Health Authority, treating American Indian and Alaska Native populations
Subject matter expert speaker on pediatric dentistry, trauma-informed care, and dental access for vulnerable populations
Member of ARCORA Foundation's CDE Advisory Committee
Past President of Washington State Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
WSAPD Trustee to the Western Society of Pediatric Dentistry
Graduate of AAPD Leadership Institute
Nearly 10 years of experience providing dental care to underserved populations including immigrant, refugee, and migrant communities
Born and raised in Lakewood, Washington
Family and husband Ryan's family trace roots in South Puget Sound region back to late 1800s and early 1900s
Mother to three young children
Enjoys spending time with husband Ryan and children, cheering from sidelines at youth sporting events
Enjoys cooking and canning
Devoted University of Oregon football fan
Provider information is sourced from the National Plan and Provider Enumeration System (NPPES) maintained by CMS. Information may not reflect the most current data. Providers can claim their profile to update and verify their details.