• Admin
• Mar 17, 2025
• Health & Medical

Best 10 Pediatric Dentists in San Diego

When it comes to taking care of your child’s oral health, it’s crucial to choose the best pediatric dentist. A pediatric dentist is trained not just to treat children’s dental issues but to make them feel comfortable, all while educating them about maintaining good oral hygiene. In this article, we’ll explore the best 10 pediatric dentists in San Diego, all of whom are renowned for their quality care, patient satisfaction, and child-friendly environments. Additionally, we’ll cover various medical and healthcare services available in San Diego to provide a holistic view of the healthcare landscape in the region.

1. Dr. Bryan A. Lam, DDS

Location: San Diego, CA
Services Offered: Pediatric Dentistry, Preventative Care, Sedation Dentistry, Restorative Treatments
Overview: Dr. Bryan A. Lam is a highly regarded pediatric dentist known for his gentle and personalized approach to treating children. His office provides a variety of dental services, from routine check-ups and cleanings to sedation dentistry for anxious patients. His staff creates a welcoming, non-intimidating environment that helps children feel relaxed during their appointments.
Specialties: Sedation dentistry, dental sealants, cavity prevention, and early orthodontics.

2. Dr. Tracy J. Monroe, DDS

Location: Carlsbad, CA (Serving the San Diego area)
Services Offered: Pediatric Dentistry, Orthodontics, Dental Care for Special Needs Children
Overview: Dr. Tracy Monroe is a well-respected pediatric dentist who treats children with a variety of needs, including those with special health considerations. Her clinic is known for its modern techniques in pediatric dentistry, offering a child-friendly atmosphere and a variety of preventive treatments. Dr. Monroe also works in collaboration with orthodontists to ensure children receive proper dental care at every stage of their development.
Specialties: Special needs dentistry, early orthodontic evaluation, dental sealants, fluoride treatments.

3. Dr. Rachel Greenfield, DDS

Location: San Diego, CA
Services Offered: Pediatric Dentistry, Routine Cleanings, Preventive Care, Fluoride Treatments
Overview: Dr. Greenfield is a pediatric dentist who specializes in preventive care, educating both parents and children about the importance of oral hygiene. She offers a wide range of treatments to ensure a lifetime of healthy smiles, including fluoride treatments, sealants, and routine cleanings. Dr. Greenfield’s calm demeanor and child-friendly techniques make her a popular choice for families in the San Diego area.
Specialties: Preventative care, fluoride treatments, sealants, and routine cleanings.

4. Dr. David L. Nelson, DDS

Location: San Diego, CA
Services Offered: Pediatric Dentistry, Restorative Care, Orthodontic Referrals, Sedation Dentistry
Overview: Dr. Nelson has a reputation for being an approachable and skilled pediatric dentist. His clinic is designed to put children at ease with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Dr. Nelson focuses on not only treating dental conditions but also educating children on oral hygiene practices, making them active participants in their oral health journey.
Specialties: Sedation dentistry, early orthodontic referrals, and restorative care.

5. Dr. Susan E. Miller, DDS

Location: San Diego, CA
Services Offered: Pediatric Dentistry, Preventive Care, Cavity Prevention, Orthodontic Evaluations
Overview: Dr. Susan Miller is known for her expertise in pediatric dentistry and her caring, patient-first approach. Her clinic provides comprehensive pediatric dental services that cover everything from routine cleanings to orthodontic evaluations. Dr. Miller is committed to providing high-quality care with a focus on long-term oral health for children.
Specialties: Preventive care, orthodontic evaluations, early cavity detection, and oral health education.

6. Dr. Peter J. Gatti, DDS

Location: San Diego, CA
Services Offered: Pediatric Dentistry, Restorative Dentistry, Emergency Care
Overview: Dr. Gatti is a pediatric dentist who offers a wide variety of services, including emergency dental care, restorative dentistry, and routine check-ups. His office is designed to make children feel at home, using the latest technology to ensure the highest standard of care. Dr. Gatti’s team works hard to make each visit as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.
Specialties: Emergency care, restorative dentistry, and preventive services.

7. Dr. Jeffrey S. Cohn, DDS

Location: San Diego, CA
Services Offered: Pediatric Dentistry, Cosmetic Dentistry, Orthodontics, Sedation Dentistry
Overview: Dr. Jeffrey Cohn is a highly skilled pediatric dentist who offers a full range of services for young patients. His practice is known for providing compassionate, gentle care, making him particularly popular among children who experience anxiety about dental visits. Dr. Cohn also offers orthodontic consultations and sedation dentistry to ensure that every child’s needs are met.
Specialties: Cosmetic dentistry, orthodontic evaluations, sedation dentistry, and cavity prevention.

8. Dr. Meredith K. Koontz, DDS

Location: San Diego, CA
Services Offered: Pediatric Dentistry, Orthodontic Referrals, Preventive Care
Overview: Dr. Meredith Koontz is dedicated to providing top-notch care for her young patients. She emphasizes the importance of early dental visits and preventive care. With her personalized approach, Dr. Koontz helps children develop healthy habits while also offering treatment for a variety of dental issues.
Specialties: Preventive care, early orthodontic evaluations, and routine cleanings.

9. Dr. Daniel L. Griffith, DDS

Location: San Diego, CA
Services Offered: Pediatric Dentistry, Restorative Services, Early Orthodontic Treatment
Overview: Dr. Daniel Griffith has been serving the San Diego community for years, offering pediatric dental care that is both effective and gentle. He provides services ranging from early orthodontic treatment to restorative services for children in need. His office is designed to ensure children are comfortable, with a focus on education and prevention.
Specialties: Early orthodontics, restorative care, preventive services, and dental hygiene education.

10. Dr. Leslie K. Pina, DDS

Location: San Diego, CA
Services Offered: Pediatric Dentistry, Emergency Care, Preventive Care
Overview: Dr. Leslie Pina is known for her personalized approach to pediatric dentistry, with a focus on emergency care, routine exams, and preventive measures to ensure children’s dental health. Dr. Pina is skilled at putting young patients at ease and offers a comprehensive range of services, including fluoride treatments, sealants, and cavity prevention strategies.
Specialties: Emergency dental care, preventive treatments, and restorative care.

Additional Healthcare Services in San Diego

While pediatric dentists play a crucial role in your child’s healthcare, it’s also important to understand the broader healthcare ecosystem in San Diego. Here’s a quick overview of the range of medical services available to families in the area:

1. Healthcare Providers in San Diego
   The city boasts an impressive network of healthcare providers that include general practitioners, pediatricians, specialists, and urgent care centers. Facilities like Rady Children's Hospital offer advanced pediatric care.

2. Urgent Care Centers & Walk-In Clinics
   In case of dental emergencies or sudden illnesses, San Diego has several urgent care centers and walk-in clinics, such as UC San Diego Health and Sharp Coronado Urgent Care, ensuring that families have access to immediate care when needed.

3. Pediatricians and Family Medicine
   San Diego offers a wide range of pediatricians and family doctors who are trained to handle both general health concerns and pediatric-specific needs. Clinics like San Diego Family Care provide comprehensive services for children, including immunizations and health screenings.

4. Specialists and Medical Centers
   For specialized care, San Diego is home to leading medical centers such as Scripps Health and UC San Diego Health, where children can receive expert care from specialists, including dermatologists, cardiologists, and mental health professionals.

5. Dental Clinics in San Diego
   Apart from pediatric dentistry, there are numerous dental clinics in San Diego that offer a variety of dental services, from cosmetic procedures to orthodontics, ensuring that both children and adults have access to top-tier dental care.

6. Medical Insurance Providers
   With numerous medical insurance providers available in San Diego, including Health Net and Blue Shield, families can easily find plans that cover pediatric dental services, urgent care, and specialist treatments.

7. Chiropractors & Physical Therapy Services
   San Diego is also home to a variety of chiropractors and physical therapy services to help children and adults with musculoskeletal issues, sports injuries, and other conditions requiring rehabilitation.

8. Mental Health and Dermatology Services
   For comprehensive care, San Diego offers a range of mental health services and dermatologists that address children’s emotional and skin health, including clinics like San Diego Psychiatry and Dermatology Consultants of San Diego.

Choosing the right pediatric dentist is essential for your child’s oral health. The above-listed pediatric dentists in San Diego offer high-quality care with a focus on ensuring your child’s comfort and well-being. In addition, the city’s diverse healthcare offerings, ranging from urgent care centers to specialized medical services, provide a strong foundation for overall health and wellness for children and families alike. Whether you are seeking dental care or broader medical services, San Diego is equipped with the resources necessary to support the health of your entire family.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a pediatric dentist?

Answer: A pediatric dentist is a dental specialist trained to care for children's oral health from infancy through adolescence, ensuring healthy teeth and gums.

2. When should my child have their first dental visit?

Answer: The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends a child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth eruption.

3. How often should my child see a pediatric dentist?

Answer: Children should visit the dentist every six months for regular check-ups and cleanings to maintain good oral health.

4. What are the best pediatric dental clinics in San Diego?

Answer: Some of the top pediatric dentists in San Diego include The Super Dentists, All Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, Children's Dentistry of San Diego, and Smile Adventures Pediatric Dentistry.

5. Do pediatric dentists offer sedation for anxious children?

Answer: Yes, many pediatric dentists offer sedation options such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or mild sedation to help anxious children feel comfortable during procedures.

6. What should I do if my child has a dental emergency?

Answer: If your child experiences a dental emergency (e.g., broken tooth, knocked-out tooth, severe pain), contact a pediatric dentist immediately. Many offer emergency dental services.

7. Are pediatric dentists more expensive than general dentists?

Answer: Costs may vary, but many pediatric dentists accept insurance, and their specialized training ensures the best care for children. Preventive care can also help reduce long-term dental expenses.

8. Do pediatric dentists accept dental insurance?

Answer: Most pediatric dentists in San Diego accept a variety of dental insurance plans. It's best to check with your provider to confirm coverage.

9. What services do pediatric dentists in San Diego provide?

Answer: Pediatric dentists offer preventive care (cleanings, fluoride treatments), restorative care (fillings, crowns), orthodontic assessments, and emergency dental care.

10. How can I prepare my child for their first dental visit?

Answer: Talk positively about the dentist, read books about dental visits, and choose a pediatric dentist with a kid-friendly environment to ensure a smooth experience.

11. What are some signs my child may have a dental problem?

Answer: Signs of dental issues include tooth pain, bleeding gums, bad breath, white or brown spots on teeth, or difficulty chewing. Consult a pediatric dentist if you notice these symptoms.

12. Can my child visit a family dentist instead of a pediatric dentist?

Answer: While family dentists can treat children, pediatric dentists specialize in child-specific dental care and are trained to handle young patients’ unique needs.

13. What is the best way to prevent cavities in children?

Answer: Encourage good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, limiting sugary foods, and scheduling regular dental check-ups.

14. Do pediatric dentists offer orthodontic evaluations?

Answer: Yes, many pediatric dentists in San Diego provide early orthodontic assessments to identify potential alignment issues and recommend treatment if needed.

15. How do I choose the best pediatric dentist for my child?

Answer: Consider experience, reviews, office environment, services offered, and whether the dentist makes your child feel comfortable. Check patient testimonials for insights.