About Dr. Richard Hsu
Dr. Richard Hsu is a pediatric dentist at Aloha Dental Specialty Center in Beaverton, Oregon. He has practiced pediatric dentistry in the west Portland metropolitan area for many years, including running Shoebox Pediatric Dentistry — a dedicated children's dental practice he established in Beaverton.
Pediatric dentistry is the area of dental medicine focused on infants, children, and adolescents — typically from the first tooth through the teenage years. The work isn't just smaller versions of adult dentistry. Children's teeth, jaws, and behaviors all change as they grow, and treatment approaches need to change with them. Dr. Hsu's clinical focus includes preventive care, dental sealants, restorations on primary and developing permanent teeth, behavior guidance for anxious young patients, and coordination with orthodontic specialists as children's bites develop.
What parents often notice first about Dr. Hsu's approach is patience. A child's first dental visit can shape how they feel about dentistry for the rest of their life. He takes the time to explain procedures in language kids understand, lets young patients ask questions, and works with parents on prevention strategies that fit each family's routine.
At Aloha Dental Specialty Center, Dr. Hsu sees children of all ages — from a baby's first tooth check around age one, through adolescent care that may include coordination with our general dentistry team for transition into adult dental care.
What Dr. Hsu Treats
- First dental visits — typically around your child's first birthday or first tooth
- Preventive pediatric care — exams, cleanings, fluoride, sealants, oral-hygiene coaching
- Pediatric restorations — fillings and crowns sized for primary and young permanent teeth
- Behavior management — tell-show-do, distraction, nitrous oxide when appropriate
- Special healthcare needs dentistry — coordinated care for patients with developmental, medical, or sensory considerations
- Pediatric dental emergencies — knocked-out tooth, broken tooth, dental pain
When to Schedule a First Visit
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a child's first dental visit by age 1 or within 6 months of the first tooth erupting. Early visits keep small problems small, establish a routine, and help children feel comfortable in a dental chair.