Say hello to Dr. Kayla Erps at PDS® Foundation Dentists for Special Needs in Phoenix, Arizona. Dr. Erps specializes in special health care needs patients.
Dr. Erps earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Iowa College of Dentistry. She started practicing in 2021 and has volunteered her time with Special Olympics, Best Buddies International, JOPPA Outreach and Mission of Mercy. Outside of work, she enjoys cheering on the Iowa State Cyclones and Iowa Hawkeyes, hiking, trying new restaurants and watching her favorite Disney and Pixar movies (Coco, Zooptopia and Aladdin).
Do you brush and floss as much as you recommend?
I have always brushed my teeth twice daily. My flossing habits weren’t the greatest until after dental school. Now I floss about 4 days a week… it could be better!
What is your favorite flavor floss?
I am a fan of the mint flavored floss. I don’t think I’ve tried any other flavors but am open to it.
Electric or manual toothbrush?
My Oral B Genius all the way!! I have been faithful with using electric toothbrushes for over ten years.
Which celebrity has the best smile?
Miss Alicia Keys! Her contagious smile is fresh in my mind after the Super Bowl.
If you could tell patients to stop doing one thing, what would it be?
Smoking or vaping – many people may not know that smoking can cause gum disease.
What is the best dental advice you’ve ever received?
I’m a teeth clencher – so learning that I could place my tongue between my teeth or on the roof of my mouth to stop myself from doing that has been a game changer!
What is the best thing about being a Delta Dental dentist?
I love taking care of patients, so with being in network, patients have less of a financial barrier to care and are more open to getting the care they need!
Can you explain why Delta Dental of Arizona’s Special Health Care Needs benefit is important and how it will impact your patients?
The Delta Dental of Arizona’s Special Health Care Needs benefit helps my patients receive their care. There are already so many barriers to care for individuals with special health care needs. This benefit helps us doctors create healthier mouths for those that are medically compromised.
How would you describe oral health’s impact on overall health and well-being?
The impact of oral health on whole body health is sometimes overlooked. It is important to remember that oral conditions can impact major organs and systems in your body, such as your brain, heart and GI, for example.
What is the most important thing you want parents to know about caring for their child’s teeth?
It is okay (and recommended) to help your child brush, even until pre-teen years if needed. So often children and individuals with special health care needs require assistance with brushing and flossing, especially with the back teeth!
What is your favorite tooth-healthy snack and what makes it so good for your smile?
I love fresh fruits and veggies! Apples, carrots and celery are great snacks that are not only nutritious, but can help clean the teeth a little when you bite into them.
What is your favorite dental joke?
What do you call a bear with no teeth? A gummy bear.
If you were stuck on a desert island, what three items would you bring?
A Kindle to read, a LifeStraw for water, and my toothbrush!
