Hello!
I'm Dr. Nick Waage

Professional Memberships/Credentials

I have been practicing pediatric dentistry and serving the Des Moines area since 2008. During this time, I have earned and maintained certifications from various professional organizations in my field including:

• Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
• Certified Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD)
• Member in good standing with
  
  • American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD)
  • American Dental Association (ADA)
  • American Board of Pediatric Dentistry (ABPD)
  • Iowa Dental Association (IDA)
  • Des Moines District Dental Society (DMDDS)
• Staff privileges at Mercy Hospital and Lakeview Surgery Center
• Certified in Basic and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (BLS and ACLS)

Commitment To Education

I grew up in West Des Moines, Iowa and attended Valley High School in West Des Moines. I pursued my undergraduate training at the University of Colorado at Boulder. I was accepted into the University of Iowa College of Dentistry and would receive my D.D.S. (Doctor of Dental Surgery) degree after four years of training.

During dental school, I had a knack for treating children and wanted to pursue additional education in that area. I was accepted into the residency program at Yale-New Haven Hospital in New Haven, Connecticut.

After two years of intensive training, I received my specialty degree in pediatric dentistry. The strong educational background I received has instilled in me a desire for lifelong learning. I believe that research and continuing education is critical for the progression of our field.

In 2009, I had my first research manuscript published in the May/June 2009 issue of Journal of Pediatric Dentistry. I was invited to present my research at the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Annual Session in Washington, D.C. We make it a strong priority to stay current with regards to the most effective treatment options available for our patients and their families.

Community Involvement

• Interestingly (or strangely), I knew from a relatively young age that dentistry was the life for me. I was always interested in the smallest of details, and I liked working with my hands, but I think I got my real spark when I received an invitation to be part of a mission trip to South America during my first year of college. A group of dentists and doctors from the community were heading to Venezuela to head-up a week-long healthcare clinic and my dentist at the time suggested I come along and observe. Part of a medical and dental team, I had the unique opportunity to watch and learn from some pretty great people! I would ultimately get to be a part of a similar trip to Costa Rica years later. These trips have had an amazing impact on my life. 

• On the more local level, I’ve been involved with the Iowa Mission of Mercy and Give Kids a Smile Day. I enjoy doing classroom presentations for all ages, and speaking at health fairs, church events and community groups about the benefits of good oral health. Long story short (too late), I like to be involved locally and beyond. Let us know of any opportunities that may exist in the community, we’d love to be a part!

Awards, Accomplishments, Research

• Des Moines Parent Family Favorite Pediatric Dentist Winner 2023
• Research manuscript published in the May/June 2009 issue of Journal of Pediatric Dentistry entitled “Pediatric Conditions Associated with Compromised Airway: Part I-Congenital”

About Me

When I'm not taking care of your little ones here at Walnut Hills Pediatric Dentistry, I'm spending time with my wife, kids and our 3 crazy dogs! The energy they bring to my life challenges me to be my very BEST, and allows me to continue to do what I love every day.

I am grateful for my Iowa upbringing and am excited to be able to contribute to the surrounding communities of the very town I grew up in. I've lived all over the map from the Rocky Mountains of Colorado to the Atlantic Coast of Connecticut—and a few great places in between.

After all that adventure, it feels great to be back to the place where I feel most “at home!” We love being from Iowa, we love the people and the sense of community. It just can't be found anywhere else!