General and preventive
Pediatric dentistry
Unhurried visits for children from age one, led by Dr. Elena Duarte and a team who explain every tool before it gets near a tooth.
- First visit
- By the first birthday
- Visit length
- 30 to 45 minutes
- Insurance
- CHIP and most PPO plans accepted
What to expect from pediatric dentistry
Children do better at the dentist when the first visits are boring in the best way. We start with a ride in the chair, a count of teeth and a look at the tools, and only move to cleaning when your child is ready. Parents stay in the room.
As kids grow we add sealants on permanent molars, fluoride varnish and bite checks that flag early orthodontic needs. Because we treat the whole family, siblings and parents can be booked in the same block.
What is included
Every pediatric dentistry plan at Northstar covers these steps as standard.
- 01Tell-show-do introduction to the chair and tools
- 02Gentle cleaning and fluoride varnish
- 03Cavity risk review with brushing coaching for parents
- 04Sealants on permanent molars around ages 6 and 12
- 05Growth and bite checks for early orthodontic signs
- 06Tooth-colored fillings when treatment is needed
How the process works
- 1
Meet and tour
Your child meets the hygienist, picks a sunglasses color and tries the chair.
- 2
Count and clean
We count teeth, polish and apply fluoride at your child's pace.
- 3
Doctor check
Dr. Duarte checks growth, bite and any soft spots on the enamel.
- 4
Parent debrief
A two-minute summary with brushing tips and when to come back.
Why patients choose it
My four-year-old asked when she can go back. Dr. Duarte let her hold the mirror and count her own teeth. That is a win.
Positive habits
Early, easy visits make dentistry routine rather than scary.
Fewer cavities
Sealants and fluoride cut decay risk on back molars substantially.
Early answers
Bite and spacing issues are simpler to guide while kids are still growing.
One family chart
Parents and kids are seen together, with one set of paperwork.
What affects the cost
Without insurance, a child's exam, cleaning and fluoride typically range from $140 to $190 (sample figures).
We share a written estimate, including your insurance portion, before treatment begins.
Insurance and financing- 1Age and cooperation
- Younger children may need shorter, split visits.
- 2Sealants
- Priced per tooth and often covered by insurance until age 14.
- 3Fillings
- Baby teeth fillings depend on size and number of surfaces.
- 4Coverage
- Most plans cover children's preventive care at 100%.
Pediatric dentistry FAQ
By the first birthday or within six months of the first tooth. Early visits are short and mostly about comfort and prevention.
Yes, parents are welcome in the treatment room for every visit.
Often. We slow down, split visits if needed and can refer to a pediatric specialist for sedation when that is the kinder option.
Related services
See all services
Book your pediatric dentistry visit
Tell us what you need and when you are free. Our front desk confirms within one business day.
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