Children’s Dentistry in South Lake Tahoe

A Friendly Start for Lifelong Oral Health

At The Smile Shop in South Lake Tahoe, we believe positive dental experiences in childhood lead to healthy habits that last a lifetime. Our approach to children’s dentistry is gentle, educational, and designed to make every young patient feel safe and supported — whether it’s their very first visit or they’re already seasoned smile pros.

We’re proud to be part of the South Lake Tahoe community, where families live active, outdoor lifestyles and value preventive wellness. Our pediatric dental care fits naturally into that mindset — helping kids stay healthy and confident as they grow.

What to Expect at Your Child’s Visit

Children’s dental visits are tailored to your child’s age, personality, and stage of development. A typical visit may include:

• A gentle exam to check tooth and gum health
  
• Dental cleaning and polishing (as appropriate for age)
  
• Fluoride treatment to strengthen enamel
  
• Sealants for cavity prevention
  
• Digital X-rays (if needed)
  
• Guidance on brushing, flossing, and nutrition
  
• Time for you to ask questions and understand your child’s oral development
  

We take the time to explain each step so your child knows what to expect and feels comfortable throughout their visit.

When Should My Child Start Seeing a Dentist?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a child’s first dental visit by age one — or within six months of their first tooth. Early visits help:

• Catch developmental issues early
  
• Reduce anxiety by building comfort and familiarity
  
• Reinforce good habits before problems start
  
• Establish a dental home you and your child can rely on
  

We’ll partner with you to create a personalized care plan that evolves as your child grows.

Pediatric Services We Offer

We provide full-scope children’s dental care, including:

• Preventive cleanings and exams
  
• Fluoride treatments and sealants
  
• Early cavity detection and fillings
  
• Space maintainers
  
• Nutritional and oral hygiene counseling
  
• Emergency care for dental injuries
  
• Support for thumb-sucking and pacifier habits
  

As part of our general dentistry services, we aim to meet all your child’s oral health needs in one familiar place.

Medi-Cal Accepted + Flexible Payment Options

Every child deserves a healthy smile. That’s why we proudly accept Medi-Cal and most dental insurance plans. If you’re uninsured or underinsured, we offer membership and financing options that make high-quality children’s care accessible and stress-free. Our front desk team is happy to help you understand your benefits before your appointment.