Pediatric Dentistry at Espire Dental in Mission Valley, San Diego - Dental Care for Every Age Group

At Espire Dental Mission Valley, we know that your child’s dental health is important at every stage of their development. That’s why we offer specialized pediatric dentistry services designed to meet the unique needs of children, teens, and young adults. Our caring team, including experienced dentists Dr. Scott Strommer and Dr. Robert Frey, is committed to creating a positive, fun, and comfortable experience for every patient—from toddlers to teens.

Child Dentistry Services Offered to Each Age Group

‍Ages 0-12 (30-Minute Appointments)
For our youngest patients, ages 0-12, we focus on preventive care and education. These early visits help your child become comfortable with the dental office and learn good oral hygiene habits that will last a lifetime. We recommend scheduling your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday and continuing with regular checkups every six months. Early visits help prevent future problems and ensure your child’s smile stays healthy. During these 30-minute appointments, our hygienist will:
- Perform a gentle cleaning to remove plaque and prevent cavities
- Check for early signs of tooth decay or developmental issues
- Teach your child how to brush and floss effectively
- Make the visit fun and engaging with kid-friendly explanations and encouragement
‍Ages 13-18 (1-Hour Appointments)
For teens and young adults ages 13-18, dental care becomes even more important as their permanent teeth come in and orthodontic treatments, such as Invisalign, may become necessary. Dr. Frey and Dr. Strommer focus on helping teens maintain good oral health habits that will set the stage for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.During these 1-hour appointments, our hygienist will:
- Perform a thorough cleaning to remove plaque and tartar
- Assess their teeth alignment and growth patterns
- Evaluate the need for braces or other orthodontic treatment
- Provide guidance on maintaining healthy oral hygiene habits during this critical stage
‍Ages 18+ (2-Hour Appointments)
Once your child reaches adulthood, regular dental visits continue to be crucial. For patients ages 18 and older, our comprehensive cleanings and exams focus on maintaining oral health and addressing any concerns that arise, such as wisdom teeth or gum disease. During these 2-hour appointments, our hygienist will:
- Complete an in-depth cleaning, targeting any areas of plaque or tartar buildup
- Provide education on preventing cavities, gum disease, and maintaining overall dental health
- Assess any orthodontic needs or cosmetic dentistry requests, including Invisalign and veneers

‍We offer tailored pediatric dental care based on your child’s age and developmental needs. No matter your age, our goal is to provide you with the best possible dental care, ensuring long-term oral health and a beautiful smile.

When should my child have their first dental visit?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that your child’s first dental visit be scheduled by their first birthday. Early visits help establish good oral hygiene habits and allow us to monitor their dental development.

How often should my child see the dentist?

Regular checkups every six months are recommended to maintain your child’s oral health. This ensures that any issues are caught early and allows us to provide preventive care, such as cleanings and fluoride treatments.

What can I do to help prevent cavities in my child’s teeth?

Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and limiting sugary snacks and drinks are essential for preventing cavities. We’ll also provide professional cleanings and offer treatments like fluoride and sealants to help protect your child’s teeth.

‍

What if my child is anxious about visiting the dentist?

We understand that some children may feel nervous about their dental visit. Dr. Frey and our team are experienced in working with anxious patients and creating a fun, supportive environment. We use kid-friendly language and distractions to help ease their fears.

Do you offer orthodontic evaluations for teens?

Yes! During your child’s regular checkups, we’ll assess their teeth alignment and growth patterns. If needed, Dr. Strommer can recommend orthodontic treatment options like clear aligners or traditional braces to correct alignment issues.

Is pediatric dental care covered by insurance?

Most dental insurance plans cover preventive services like cleanings, exams, and fluoride treatments for children. Our team will work with your insurance provider to ensure you receive the maximum benefits and help make your child’s care as affordable as possible.

Schedule Your Child’s Pediatric Dental Visit Today!

At Espire Dental Mission Valley, we’re passionate about helping children and families maintain healthy, happy smiles. If your child is due for a dental checkup or you have any concerns about their oral health, call us today at (619) 280-9100 or schedule an appointment online. Whether you’re in Mission Valley, Serra Mesa, or nearby Hillcrest, we’re here to provide expert pediatric care and keep your child’s smile shining bright!