Children’s Dentistry in San Juan Capistrano

First visits & ages we see

We welcome toddlers to teens and recommend establishing a dental home by age one (or within 6 months of the first tooth). Early visits reduce future risk and costs, and let kids build great habits with a friendly team.

Related: What’s included at checkups → Preventive Care (cleanings, X-rays, fluoride, sealants).

What’s included in a kids’ checkup

  • Comprehensive exam tailored to your child’s stage and habits

  • Gentle cleaning & polish

  • Personalized X-ray schedule (only when indicated, risk-based)

  • Fluoride varnish when helpful

  • Sealants for cavity-prone molars (quick, no anesthetic)

Evidence supports sealants to prevent or stop molar cavities in children and teens.

X-rays & safety (parents always ask!)

We follow AAPD/ADA-endorsed guidelines to decide if/when images are needed, based on your child’s risk and development—not a fixed schedule. We’ll explain the “why” before every image.

Behavior guidance & comfort

We use tell-show-do, kid-friendly pacing, and topical/local anesthetic as needed so visits stay positive. For anxious kiddos we add extra time, simple choices, and parent participation when helpful.

Fluoride, sealants & cavity prevention (what we recommend and why)

  • Fluoride strengthens enamel and lowers cavity risk.

  • Sealants flow into deep grooves on molars to “seal out” food/bacteria and can protect for years.

  • Diet & habits: limit frequent sugary drinks/snacks; rinse with water after treats.

  • Home care: brush 2x/day with a pea-size fluoride paste; help/supervise until handwriting is neat.

Related: If decay is found, see Fillings (tooth-colored). If gums are puffy/bleed (common in braces/teens), review Periodontal Care basics.

Orthodontic screening & mouthguards (protect growing smiles)

We watch growth/spacing and refer for orthodontic evaluation at the right time. For sports, a custom-fit mouthguard helps reduce dental injuries.

Kids’ dental emergencies (what to do right now)

If a tooth is chipped/knocked or there’s pain/swelling, call us at (949) 496-5585—we offer same-day guidance and care. Start with our local guides for parents:

Parent guides

South OC families we serve

  • San Juan Capistrano

  • Dana Point

  • Aliso Viejo

  • Mission Viejo

  • San Clemente

FAQs: Children’s Dentistry in San Juan Capistrano

  • By age one (or within 6 months of first tooth). Early visits lower risk and cost over time.

  • Yes—studies and guidelines support sealants to prevent or halt early molar decay.

  • No. We follow risk-based AAPD/ADA guidance and take images only when indicated.

  • A properly fitted mouthguard helps reduce sports-related dental injuries. We can guide options or make a custom one.

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