Kids & families
A dentist your kids will not dread
We see the whole family, from a first visit at one year old to a teenager in aligners. Nobody here uses scary words, nobody gets held down, and parents stay in the room.
What happens, by age
- Age 1
The first visit
Short and friendly. We count teeth, check how they are coming in, and talk with you about bottles, cups and brushing. Often on your lap.
- Ages 2–5
Cleanings and fluoride
A gentle polish and a fluoride varnish painted on. Children pick a flavour and a toothbrush. We build the habit while nothing needs fixing.
- Ages 6–12
Sealants and a first ortho look
New back teeth get sealants in their grooves, where decay usually starts. Around seven we take a look at how the jaws are growing.
- Teens
Aligners, braces and wisdom teeth
Straightening if it is needed, a mouthguard if they play sport, and keeping an eye on wisdom teeth as they arrive.
The words we use — and the ones we do not
Children import fear from adults. If it helps, these are the substitutions we make, and it is worth using the same ones at home before the visit.
- Shot / injectionSleepy juice
- DrillTooth tickler
- SuctionLittle vacuum
- It will hurt / will not hurtYou will feel me press
Questions patients ask
When should my child first see a dentist?
By their first birthday, or within six months of the first tooth appearing. It is mostly a look and a conversation — the point is to catch anything early and let your child sit in the chair while nothing is happening.
Can I stay in the room?
Yes, always. For toddlers we often do the exam knee-to-knee, with your child lying back across your lap facing us. It is easier for everyone.
What if my child will not open their mouth?
Then we stop and try again another day. Forcing a first visit buys one look at their teeth and costs years of trust. Nobody here is going to hold your child down.
How should I talk about the visit beforehand?
Keep it short and neutral: we are going to count your teeth and take pictures of them. Avoid the words hurt, shot, drill and pain — even in a reassuring sentence like "it will not hurt", because the word is what sticks.
Do you take Medi-Cal Dental for children?
Yes, along with all PPO plans. Call either office with your card and the team will confirm what is covered before the visit.
When should braces be looked at?
An orthodontic look around age seven is the usual recommendation, because the permanent molars and front teeth are in and jaw growth is visible. Most children need nothing at that point — it is an assessment, not a commitment.