For Your Smallest Smiles
Pediatric Dentistry
Kind, patient care for kids of every age. Because how your child feels about the dentist at age 4 shapes how they feel at 40.
Reviewed by Dr. Mini Nair, DDS — Updated 2026
When should my child first see the dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a first dental visit by age one, or within six months of the first tooth erupting. Early visits are mostly about getting your child comfortable with the chair, the team, and the sights and sounds of the office.
What we do on those first visits
- A gentle look at the teeth, gums, and jaw development
- A quick “toothbrush ride” to polish tiny teeth
- Fluoride treatment as appropriate
- Coaching for parents on brushing, flossing, and diet
- Lots of smiles, stickers, and warm encouragement
As they grow
- Cleanings and exams every 6 months. This builds the habit and lets us catch tiny problems early.
- Dental sealants on permanent molars as soon as they come in — a quick, gentle way to prevent cavities.
- Fluoride treatments to strengthen developing enamel.
- Bite and alignment monitoring as adult teeth come in — so we catch orthodontic needs early.
Anxious kid?
We see it often, and we're patient. We never rush, never pin a child down, and never shame them for being scared. Our hygienists are wonderful with nervous little ones — they'll turn the visit into a game when they can, and explain every tool before they use it.
For children who need extra help, nitrous oxide is a gentle, safe option. We'll talk through it with you before we ever use it.
Parents welcome
You are welcome to stay with your child for their visit. We find most kids do best with a parent nearby for the first few appointments.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should my child first see the dentist?+
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a first visit by age one, or within six months of the first tooth erupting. These early visits are mostly about getting your child comfortable with the dental office.
How do you handle kids who are scared of the dentist?+
We never rush, never pin a child down, and never shame them for being nervous. Our hygienists explain every tool before they use it and turn visits into a game when possible. Nitrous oxide is available for children who need extra help relaxing.
How often should my child see the dentist?+
Every six months for cleanings and exams. This builds a healthy habit and lets us catch tiny problems early, before they need bigger treatment.
Are dental sealants worth it for kids?+
Yes. Sealants are one of the most effective preventive treatments in dentistry, reducing the risk of cavities on back teeth by up to 80%. They're quick, gentle, and we recommend them as soon as permanent molars come in.
Can I stay with my child during their dental visit?+
Absolutely. Parents are always welcome in the treatment room at Shenandoah Dental Center. Most kids do best with a parent nearby for the first few appointments.
Does my child need fluoride treatments?+
Fluoride treatments strengthen developing enamel and help prevent cavities. We recommend them for most children and will discuss whether they're appropriate for your child at each visit.
Ready When You Are
Let's write the next chapter
of your smile's story.
Schedule an appointment online, or give us a call. We're accepting new patients of every age — and we'll walk you through every step.