When it comes to dental care, not all practices are the same—especially when it comes to caring for little smiles! While both pediatric and general dentists help keep teeth healthy, pediatric dentistry is uniquely designed just for kids. From extra training to child-friendly environments, there are many reasons why a San Francisco pediatric dentist is the best choice for growing smiles.

Specialized Training for Growing Smiles

Pediatric dentists go through two to three extra years of training after dental school to specialize in children’s oral health. This includes learning about child psychology, how teeth and jaws develop, and techniques to make dental visits gentle and positive.

• Additional training in pediatric dentistry, with knowledge of childhood diseases and how they can affect oral and overall health.
• Expertise in managing children's behavior during dental visits, including expanded options for safe and comfortable treatment including imperceptible local anesthesia technology, desensitization visits, nitrous oxide “relaxing air”, and complete dental treatment under general anesthesia
• Understanding of developing teeth and growing smiles, including understanding of facial structure and development differences that can lead to sleep disordered breathing, malocclusion, feeding, speech, and growth challenges, and how to optimize growth for your child’s optimal health and functioning.

A Dental Home Made Just for Kids

One of the biggest differences? The atmosphere! Pediatric dental offices are designed with kids in mind—bright colors, a calm and welcoming atmosphere, fun toys, and a kind and patient team that knows how to make every child feel at ease. The goal is to create positive dental experiences that set the stage for a lifetime of healthy habits.

• Fun, interactive waiting areas with toys and games
• A warm, inviting space that helps kids feel comfortable
• A team trained in kid-friendly communication

Preventive Care & Early Education

Pediatric dentistry is all about prevention. Establishing good oral hygiene early can prevent cavities, gum issues, and even orthodontic problems down the road. Pediatric dentists partner with parents to teach kids healthy habits that will last a lifetime.

Dr. Shah and her team pride themselves on arming parents with the knowledge and tools to succeed in establishing realistic and healthy routines that keep smiles healthy with busy lifestyles. They understand that just instructing families to “brush, floss and avoid candy” falls short of being meaningful for preventing dental disease. The Mission Bay Pediatric Dentistry team is there as a partner in your child’s health, and will show you techniques and support you throughout the process of putting good habits in place.

• Gentle check-ups and cleanings tailored for kids. We have a variety of approaches that meet your child where they are at every age and stage, and help parents and children develop the confidence to grow at each dental visit.

• Teaching little ones how to brush and floss the right way, by using Show-and-Tell, with our resident celebrity tooth brusher, Pickles the Unicorn. We also show parents what they can expect when they brush and floss their child’s teeth at each age, and give practical tips on how to get it done in a positive, safe, and effective manner.

• Nutrition guidance for strong, cavity-free teeth. Did you know there are other foods out there that are worse for teeth than candy? Unfortunately, many kid-friendly foods out there are tooth-decay magnets. And some safer treats to trade out for that might surprise you! Dr. Shah and her team helps families navigate kid-approved options that are good for teeth and body, as well as strategies for enjoying tricky foods more safely.

Specialized Treatments & Equipment

From smaller tools designed for tiny mouths, to minimally invasive treatment options, to specific restorative options and materials especially designed for active and growing children, pediatric dentists have on hand the techniques and equipment built just for children. They also offer early assessments for thumb-sucking and other habits, baby teeth concerns, and orthodontic needs to help keep smiles on track.

• Child-sized dental tools for comfort
• Special treatment materials and supplies specifically meant for treating primary teeth and growing smiles
• Sedation options designed to facilitate safe, high-quality and non-scary experiences for young patients
• Early screenings for airway, functional and tethered tissue (tongue and lip tie) concerns, and orthodontics for growing smiles.

Experience the Difference at Mission Bay Pediatric Dentistry!

At Mission Bay Pediatric Dentistry, we’re all about creating a positive, comfortable experience for every child. Dr. Erin Shah and our team are specially trained to care for little smiles in a fun, supportive environment—right here in San Francisco, CA.

Ready to give your child the best start to a lifetime of healthy smiles? Call us at (415) 825-3323 to schedule an appointment today!