Pediatric dental care

How does pediatric dentistry work?

Pediatric dentistry focuses on providing specialized care tailored to the unique needs of children’s developing teeth and gums. At Captain Dental, our goal is to establish positive oral health habits early and create a welcoming, fear-free environment for young patients, setting the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

We offer comprehensive pediatric dental care, including:

Specialized services for children. We provide dental care for mixed dentition, ensuring a smooth transition from baby to adult teeth.
Preventive focus. We encourage early consultations to catch potential issues before they become major problems.
A child-friendly approach. Our team of pediatric dentistry experts is trained to create a comfortable, cooperative experience for kids.

Tips for preparing your child for a pediatric dental visit

The following tips will help your child have less anxiety about their visit to the dentist. In family dentistry, it is encouraged to:

Talk positively to your child about dentists. Use reassuring language to alleviate fears.
Practice at home. Role-play dental visits to make them familiar and less scary.
Bring comfort items like toys or blankets. They can help children feel secure and more at ease during their visit to the dentist.
Schedule wisely. Booking appointments when your child is well-rested and calm plays a huge role in their mindset and mood during their visit.

Early prevention and treatment services

At Captain Dental, we encourage patients to attend regular check-ups to spot any potential issues early. Our preventative and treatment services include:

Checkups and cleanings: Routine care to maintain oral health.
Your child's first visit: A friendly introduction to the dental chair.
Dental education: Fun lessons to encourage good oral hygiene.
Fillings and emergency dentistry: Quick solutions for cavities or accidents.
Orthodontics: Invisalign, braces, and retainers for growing smiles.
Sedation dentistry: Gentle solutions for a pain-free experience.

By providing a safe, supportive environment and expert pediatric dental care, we make every dental visit a positive step toward lifelong oral health.

Why choose Captain Dental for pediatric dental care

At Captain Dental, we’re dedicated to providing top-tier pediatric dental care that’s tailored to your child’s comfort and needs. From flexible payment options to a child-friendly environment, we ensure every visit is a positive experience.

Before your appointment

Open to learn more about what happens before your appointment.

Scheduling your child’s pediatric dental care appointment is easy and practical, with appointments available every weekday, Saturday, and select Sundays. Same-day appointments for dental emergencies, online forms, and upfront insurance and payment information ensure your experience starts worry-free.

Insurance Support
Our dedicated team will gather comprehensive details about your insurance coverage, ensuring you receive an accurate estimate before your visit. While insurance companies can sometimes present challenges, we go the extra mile to make the process smooth for every patient, every time.

For New Patients:
- All required forms can be completed online ahead of time, saving you from unnecessary paperwork on the day of your appointment.
For Existing Patients:
- Your estimate will already be prepared based on information from your previous visit.

Appointment day

Open to learn more about what happens on your appointment day.

When you step into Captain Dental, you and your child will be welcomed by a friendly and relaxing environment designed to prioritize comfort. With waiting times kept under 5 minutes, your experience starts stress-free. While you wait, enjoy:

Complimentary snacks and beverages
High-speed Wi-Fi

Once your child’s appointment begins, our team will guide you through each step of the process. We use state-of-the-art dental technology, including digital X-rays that reduce radiation exposure by 80% compared to traditional methods, ensuring precision and comfort.

For added ease, we offer various sedation options, including laughing gas and IV sedation.At the end of your visit, we’ll provide a detailed summary of the pediatric dental procedures performed and a clear plan for what’s next. Additionally, we offer flexible payment options to help you feel confident about your treatment choices.

Our team

Open to learn more about our team.

Your child’s care and worry-free experience are entrusted to a team of highly experienced professionals, each with 5 to 20 years of expertise and advanced education from leading universities. Every pediatric dentist undergoes an extensive selection process, including:

5 interview rounds assessing clinical knowledge, communication skills, hands-on performance with Typodont models, and behavioral attributes.
A working interview involving real patient interactions, with feedback collected from patients, dental assistants, and front desk staff.

Out of every 50 candidates interviewed, only one is selected to join our team, ensuring you receive the highest standard of care in a friendly and supportive environment.

After your appointment

Open to learn more about what happens after your appointment.

At Captain Dental, we are dedicated to ensuring your continued satisfaction and care beyond your visit. Here's what you can expect after your child’s pediatric dental care appointment with your dentist at Captain Dental:

Follow-up care: After checking up on you and your child, your pediatric dentist will follow up with personalized instructions via text to help you maintain your results at home.
Immediate attention: If you notice any symptoms, we’ll arrange a same-day appointment with your local pediatric dentist to address your concerns promptly.‍
Direct feedback: We value your input and invite you to share your experience directly with our clinic owner to help us continually improve our services.

Worry-free experiences

Message from the owners :)

Message from the Owners
At Captain Dental, we are committed to providing you with a worry-free experience.

This philosophy is the foundation of everything we do and reflects years of effort and a steadfast commitment to upholding the highest standards. Every aspect of your visit, from the smallest detail to the most significant procedure, has been thoughtfully optimized to provide you with a seamless experience.

As the founders of Captain Dental, we take pride in the care we deliver and are grateful for a team that shares our passion for exceptional service. If you have any feedback or suggestions, we’re always here to listen.

Dr. Doris Yao & Marshall Xu
Owners & Founders of Captain Dental

At what age should my child first visit a pediatric dentist?

The American Dental Association recommends that children visit a pediatric dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth eruption. Early visits help establish a positive relationship with the dentist and allow for early detection of any potential oral health issues.

How does Captain Dental make dental visits fun and less intimidating for children?

At Captain Dental, we are committed to make your experience worry-free. We do this by:

Having a friendly atmosphere: Our offices are designed with bright colors and a child-friendly ambiance to create a welcoming environment.
Hosting a specialized team: Our staff is trained in working with children to ensure they feel safe and comfortable.
Using interactive tools: We use fun, educational tools and videos to explain procedures in a way kids understand.
Using rewards and encouragement: Small prizes or stickers to celebrate a successful visit.

At what age should my child first visit a pediatric dentist?

Here are some tips for preparing kids for their first dental visit:

Talk positively: Emphasize the benefits of a healthy smile and that the dentist is there to help.
Role play: Practice a pretend visit at home where your child sits in a chair and you "count their teeth."
Read books: Introduce dental-themed children’s books to familiarize them with the experience.
Bring comfort items: A favorite toy or blanket can help soothe nerves.

How often should my child see the pediatric dentist?

Regular checkups every six months are recommended in pediatric dentistry to maintain oral health and monitor dental development. More frequent visits may be advised for children prone to cavities or with specific dental concerns.

What should I do if my child has a toothache?

In case of a toothache, dentists for kids recommend:

Rinsing with warm salt water: Gently clean the affected area to reduce discomfort.
Applying a cold compress: Apply to the cheek for swelling or pain relief.
Avoiding sugary foods: Stick to soft foods until the issue is resolved.
Visiting Captain Dental: Schedule an emergency appointment for prompt care and treatment.

Are dental X-rays safe for children?

Yes, dental X-rays are safe for children. Modern digital X-rays use minimal radiation and are essential for diagnosing hidden issues like cavities between teeth or bone abnormalities. Protective measures, such as lead aprons, ensure your child’s safety.

How can I help my child maintain good oral hygiene at home?

Your pediatric dentist will recommend the following habits for your child to maintain good oral hygiene:

Brush twice daily: Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush appropriate for their age.
Floss daily: Teach your child how to floss or assist them until they’re comfortable doing it themselves.
Healthy diet: Limit sugary snacks and drinks to prevent cavities.
Dental education: Make brushing fun with songs, apps, or charts to track their progress.

How do I know if my child needs a referral to a specialist?

Your pediatric dentist at Captain Dental may recommend a specialist in the following situations:

Your child has severe misalignment requiring orthodontic treatment.
Surgical intervention is needed, such as for impacted teeth.
Advanced periodontal or gum issues are present.

Where can I get pediatric dental care with Captain Dental?

Captain Dental provides pediatric dentistry in all of our 3 locations. To book a pediatric dental appointment in one of them, click one of the links below:

Pediatric dentistry in Santa Clara, CA

Pediatric dentistry in Redwood City, CA

Pediatric dentistry in San Jose, CA