About us
Welcome to Sandpoint Smiles
Our mission is simple
We’re here to meet you where you are, and help you move forward with care that feels comfortable, personal, and built to last. We believe dentistry should be proactive—not pushy—and we're here to empower you with clear education, minimally invasive options, and a genuine partnership in your health.
Get to know your dentist
Meet Dr. Justin Nelson
Dr. Justin Nelson is proud to offer down-to-earth, prevention-focused dental care to the community of Sandpoint. A native of Idaho Falls, he brings a local’s warmth and a deep respect for patient relationships to every appointment making it easy to feel at ease from your very first visit.
Dr. Nelson originally studied biology at Arizona State University with plans to pursue medicine. But after marrying a dental hygienist and learning more about the field, he found his calling in dentistry—and never looked back. He went on to earn his dental degree from Roseman University of Health Sciences, where he honed the clinical skills and values that shape his patient-first approach today.
What sets Dr. Nelson apart is his belief that dentistry should be minimally invasive, predictable, and rooted in long-term solutions. He’s passionate about helping patients get out of pain, save their natural teeth, and better understand the “why” behind their oral health.
Outside of the office, Dr. Nelson is an avid outdoorsman who loves fishing, snowboarding, hiking, and camping with his wife and daughters. You might even catch him at the local fishing derby, where he and his family have earned a few top spots over the years!
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Here’s what your first visit will look like
Personalized care, from the very first hello
Whether it’s been six months or six years since your last dental visit, we’re here to welcome you without judgment. We’ll take time to get to know you, understand your needs, and create a game plan that fits your goals and comfort level.
Patient Experience
During your first visit, you’ll receive a gentle but thorough exam, X-rays, and a one-on-one conversation with Dr. Nelson about your dental health. If you’re due for a cleaning and it’s appropriate, we’ll take care of that too. Expect a laid-back, friendly atmosphere where your voice matters and your time is respected.
What to Bring
To make your visit smooth and efficient, please bring:
Comfort and innovation, working together
We’re building an experience that feels good from start to finish.
Noise-Canceling Headphones
Nervous about noise? Our noise-reducing headphones help you relax during your appointment—so you can feel calm and focused while we work.
Nitrous (Laughing Gas) for Anxiety
If you feel nervous about dental visits, nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, can help you relax. It’s safe, gentle, and wears off quickly so you can feel calm and comfortable during your appointment.
Pain-Free Anesthesia System
We use the Calaject System to make dental numbing easy and pain-free. It gently controls the flow of anesthesia for a smooth, comfortable experience. With our added buffering system, the numbing works almost instantly and keeps you at ease throughout your visit.
Investing in the future
Building connections, one smile at a time
While Sandpoint Smiles is still new to the area, we’re excited to grow roots and give back to the community we serve. From future partnerships with local organizations to supporting events that matter to you, we’re committed to making a positive impact. Stay tuned for more details!
