GENERAL DENTISTRY
Family & Children's Dentistry
Family & Children's Services
Pediatric Dentistry
Specialized dental care designed for infants, children, and teens.
Dental Sealants
Protective coatings that shield children's teeth from cavities.
Fluoride Treatments
Strengthen developing teeth and prevent early childhood decay.
Gentle & Anxiety-Free Dentistry
Comfort-focused care for patients of all ages who feel nervous.
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Safe, gentle sedation that helps children relax during treatment.
Dental Checkups & Exams
Age-appropriate exams to monitor growth and development.
Gentle, Trusted Dental Care for Every Stage of Life
Healthy smiles are important at every age, from your child's very first tooth to your own lifelong dental needs. At Glendale Dental Wellness, Dr. Ivan Chan provides comprehensive family and children's dentistry so your entire household can receive care in one welcoming office. Whether it's a toddler's first dental visit, a teen needing cavity prevention, or parents looking for long-term oral health solutions, we make every experience comfortable and personalized.
Choosing a family dentist means convenience, continuity, and peace of mind. Instead of visiting multiple offices, you'll have one trusted team who understands your family's complete dental history — tracking changes over time, anticipating age-specific needs, and building lasting relationships based on trust.
A Family-Friendly Approach to Dental Care
Many children feel anxious about dental visits, and we understand that parents want their kids to have positive experiences. Our team is experienced with children of all ages and uses a gentle, kid-friendly approach — explaining procedures in simple language, going at each child's pace, and never rushing. We create a warm, welcoming atmosphere designed to make children feel safe and comfortable.
For anxious children or more complex procedures, we offer nitrous oxide sedation to help them relax without full sedation. We celebrate each child's cooperation and encourage them to build confidence, because a positive early experience sets the foundation for lifelong dental health.
Tips for Raising Healthy Smiles
Talk positively about dental visits, read books about going to the dentist, and avoid using scary words like "shot" or "drill." A calm, encouraging attitude helps children feel safe and builds positive associations with dental care.
Clean gums with a soft cloth before teeth appear. Once teeth come in, brush twice daily with a rice-grain amount of fluoride toothpaste. Schedule the first dental visit by age one and avoid putting babies to bed with a bottle.
Supervise brushing until around age 7-8. Use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste and begin flossing when teeth touch. Ask about sealants for back teeth and limit sugary snacks and drinks between meals.
Teens face unique challenges — wisdom teeth, orthodontic care, and lifestyle habits. Encourage consistent brushing and flossing, discuss the impact of sugary drinks and smoking, and consider sports mouthguards for athletes.
Make brushing fun with timers, songs, or apps. Let kids pick their own toothbrush. Brush together as a family to model good behavior. Consistent routines morning and night build habits that last a lifetime.
Limit juice, soda, and sticky snacks. Offer water, cheese, and crunchy vegetables as tooth-friendly alternatives. A balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamins supports strong teeth and healthy gum development.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should my child have their first dental visit?
We recommend scheduling your child's first dental visit around age one, or as soon as their first tooth appears. Early visits help establish healthy habits, allow us to monitor development, and prevent problems before they start. We make these first visits fun and non-threatening to build positive associations with dental care.
How often should children visit the dentist?
Most children benefit from dental visits every six months for cleaning and exams. However, some children with higher cavity risk may need more frequent visits. We'll recommend a schedule based on your child's individual risk factors and overall oral health.
Is it normal for baby teeth to have cavities?
While baby teeth eventually fall out, cavities in baby teeth should still be treated. Untreated cavities can cause pain, infection, and can affect the development of permanent teeth. Additionally, baby teeth are important for proper chewing, speaking, and holding space for permanent teeth.
My child is afraid of the dentist. What can we do?
Dental fear is common in children. We recommend starting early with positive experiences, talking positively about dental visits, and avoiding scary language. Our team is experienced with anxious children and uses gentle approaches. Nitrous oxide sedation is also available if needed to help nervous children relax.
Are baby teeth important if they're going to fall out anyway?
Absolutely! Baby teeth are crucial for chewing, speaking, and guiding the eruption of permanent teeth. They also help maintain proper jaw development. Neglecting baby teeth can lead to permanent tooth problems, so proper care is essential.
Should my teenager have a different dentist than my younger child?
A family dentist can care for patients of all ages, including teens. Family dentistry provides continuity of care and familiarity with your teen's dental history. However, if specialized orthodontic care is needed, we coordinate with trusted orthodontists.
What's the best way to encourage good oral hygiene habits in kids?
Start early with a good example, make brushing and flossing fun, use child-friendly toothpaste and tools, and establish a consistent routine. We also provide guidance on proper technique. Regular positive experiences at the dentist reinforce the importance of oral health.
