Meet Dr. Niekia Franklin

Dr. Niekia Franklin

Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist in Oakland, CA

Choosing a pediatric dentist means finding someone who understands that every child experiences dental care differently. Some children need extra time becoming comfortable in a new environment, while others may need specific communication strategies or additional support during visits.

Dr. Niekia Franklin is a board-certified pediatric dentist in Oakland, CA who provides specialized dental care for infants, children, teenagers, and children with additional healthcare needs. With advanced pediatric training and a focus on prevention, conservative dentistry, and individualized care, Dr. Franklin helps families build healthy habits while creating positive dental experiences.

As the founder of Redwood Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Franklin’s goal is to create a dental home where children feel respected, parents feel informed, and care is designed around each child’s needs.

Education & Advanced Pediatric Training

Dr. Niekia Franklin completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Oklahoma before earning her dental degree from Baylor College of Dentistry, where she graduated in the top 3% of her class. During dental school, she was actively involved in leadership and community outreach, including founding a local chapter of Give Kids a Smile.

She later completed advanced specialty training in Pediatric Dentistry at Indiana University, earning her Master of Science in Dentistry (MSD). During her residency, Dr. Franklin gained experience caring for children with complex health needs and providing specialized pediatric dental care in a hospital setting.

With advanced pediatric training and over a decade of experience, Dr. Franklin understands the unique dental, developmental, and behavioral needs of children. She provides personalized, compassionate care focused on prevention, comfort, and building healthy smiles from infancy through adolescence.

Her credentials include:

  • Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)
  • Pediatric Dentistry Residency Certification
  • Board Certification by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
  • Member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry

Her Approach to Treating Children

Dr. Franklin believes pediatric dentistry is about more than treating teeth. It is about creating an environment where children can build trust, understand their care, and feel comfortable participating in their dental experience.

Her approach includes:

1

Personalized Communication

Dr. Franklin takes time to explain dental care in a way children and parents can understand. She considers each child’s age, personality, communication style, and comfort level when planning visits.

2

Conservative Treatment Philosophy

Whenever possible, Dr. Franklin focuses on preserving healthy tooth structure and choosing treatment options based on the individual needs of each child.

3

Preventive Education

She believes parents and children benefit from understanding the “why” behind dental care. Through education and guidance, families can make informed decisions that support long-term oral health.

4

Support for Children With Different Needs

Every child responds differently to the dental environment. Dr. Franklin works with families to understand sensory preferences, previous experiences, and strategies that may help make visits more successful.

Reviews

See Why Families Feel at Home With Us

Parents appreciate our honest communication, thoughtful guidance, and commitment to empowering families with the knowledge they need to make confident decisions about their child’s health.

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Morgan Cepparo
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This was our first visit and we loved it. They took amazing care of my 14 month old and made her feel comfortable. They were gentle, kind, and playful. A great experience!
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Iman A profile picture
Iman A
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This is hands down the best pediatric dentistry in the entire Bay Area. From the moment you walk in, the reception staff is incredibly kind and welcoming. That warmth continues with the dental assistants and Dr. Franklin herself. My children are always so well cared for, but today’s visit truly stood out. When we discovered my young son had cavities, Dr. Franklin immediately sensed our worry. Before even discussing the treatment, she took the time to console my husband and me, reassuring us that this happens often and isn't a reflection of our parenting. Her empathy is unmatched. We are so grateful to have found this practice and cannot recommend them highly enough. If you want the best for your children, look no further. Dr. Franklin + Staff: I wish you all nothing but health, wealth, and success! You guys are WONDERFUL! Thank you, thank you, thank you!
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Emily Berenberg Schlesinger
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We love Dr. Franklin and her whole staff. My three boys are all patients at Redwood Pediatric Dentistry and I appreciate their suggestions for dental health and how they really connect with my kids. The lots of personal touches like their names on the door, my little one loves the toys and my older kids appreciate that the staff are all very friendly and fun to talk to. They also make scheduling and insurance billing very easy. Highly recommend!
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Linda Xu
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I started taking my now three-year-old here when she first turned one. Dr. Franklin and the team makes the experience so seamless and as fun as comforting for the kiddos, as well, a dentist trip can be :). We’re very grateful to have found this place and we’re excited that our kiddos will be here for a very long time.
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Courtney Jo
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My family and I are so happy we came across Dr. Franklin’s office for my 6 yr old son. All the staff are so friendly and welcoming. You feel like family when you go and I love that not only is the space specifically curated for kids but all the staff have a talent for working with kids. They know exactly what to do to help the kids feel at ease. When my son had a filling, he was nervous going in but once he got on the chair Dr. Franklin explained everything to him step by step and when we was done he said it wasn’t so bad :) I also love that Dr. Franklin gives you a lot options when your child needs treatment. She is very health conscious and puts that at the forefront of her practice. I wish I had a child dentist like this when I grew up. I would always look forward to going. If you’re looking for a dentist for your child, I highly recommend Dr. Franklin!
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Katrina
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I took my 2 year old here for her first dentist visit and we could not have had a better experience! My daughter had so much fun and every staff we interacted with was kind, friendly, and patient! Couldn’t recommend this pediatric dentist more!!
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Suzanne Spencer
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Dr Franklin is wonderful and so are all the hygienists we’ve met!
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Marianella Cateriano
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We always have a wonderful experience with the team at Redwood Pediatric Dentistry. They are so patient, kind, and great with kids. My daughter always feels comfortable, and everything is explained clearly to both of us. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a great pediatric dentist!