Learn About Pediatric Dentistry of Sacramento
Our Philosophy
Our mission is to help every child, from infants to teens and those with special needs, achieve excellent oral health through compassionate, high-quality care.
Through continual training and state-of-the-art techniques, materials and equipment, we provide timely care in a clean, well-organized office.
- We honor the trust each parent places in our team.
- Our fun, welcoming office helps children and families feel comfortable and safe.
- Prevention comes first, through personalized assessment, education and treatment.
What is a pediatric dentist?
. . . the children's doctor of dentistry.
A pediatric dentist completes two to three years of specialty training after dental school, focused on children from infancy through the teen years, including those with special medical or developmental needs. Their main goals are preventing dental disease and building a positive dental experience that lasts a lifetime.
“Children’s” Dentists vs. Pediatric Dentists
Terms like “children’s dentist,” “kids dentist” or “we offer pediatric dentistry,” and child-themed offices with whimsical names, are often just marketing. Only “pediatric dentist” is a recognized specialty, earned through formal residency training focused exclusively on children. Any general dentist or corporate practice can use the other terms.
Many general dentists treat children, and some do it well. The concern is when marketing makes it hard for parents to tell general care from specialty pediatric care.
What Makes a Pediatric Dentist Different?
Pediatric dentists spend an additional 2–3 years training in:
- Dental care for infants, children and teens
- Behavior guidance and reducing anxiety
- Orthodontics: growth and development of the teeth and jaws
- Sedation and hospital-based dentistry
- Caring for children with special health care or developmental needs
It’s like the difference between a pediatrician and a family doctor. That extra training matters most for young children, anxious or fearful children, children with special needs, and those who need extensive treatment or sedation.
Our Commitment to Your Family
We care for children only, and all care is provided by board-certified, specialty-trained pediatric dentists. They work alongside registered dental assistants (RDAs) who receive extra hands-on training in working with kids, and every team member is chosen for their patience, experience and genuine love of children.
Our goal is simple: to provide the highest level of specialized care in a positive, compassionate environment where every child can thrive.
Questions to Ask a “Children’s” Dental Office
- “Did you complete a pediatric dental residency?”
- “Are you a board-certified pediatric dentist?”
- “Will my child be seeing a pediatric dentist or a general dentist?”
We Love What We Do
Dr. Johnson, Dr. Sanghvi and Dr. Hearn are passionate about creating positive experiences for every child. We look forward to building a long-term relationship with your family and helping your child grow up with confidence, comfort and trust in their dental care.