We accept new patients 17 and under. Once established as a patient, a child may continue returning to TCDC until their 18th birthday, as long as their dental needs can be met.
Tooth decay, or cavities, is caused by bacteria in the mouth. Oral hygiene, diet, and genetics all play a role.
Pediatric dentists have additional experience and training for working with children. After becoming a dentist, they complete an additional two years of training focused on providing care to children, in conjunction with studying growth and development, special health needs and behavior management techniques.
A soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head, preferably one designed specifically for infants, should be used at least once a day at bedtime. Gums can be wiped with a cloth to remove bacteria.
Primary, or “baby,” teeth are important for many reasons. Not only do they help children speak clearly and chew naturally, they also aid in forming a path that permanent teeth can follow when they are ready to erupt.
Contact your child's dentist.
A check-up every six months is recommended in order prevent cavities and other dental problems.
The most important thing to do is to remain calm. Then find the tooth. Hold it by the crown rather than the root and try to reinsert it in the socket. If that is not possible, put the tooth in a glass of milk and take your child and the glass immediately to the pediatric dentist.
Parents should take their children to the dentist regularly, beginning with the eruption of the first tooth. Then, the dentist can recommend a specific program of brushing, flossing, and other treatments for parents to supervise and teach to their children. These home treatments, when added to regular dental visits and a balanced diet, will help give your child a lifetime of healthy habits.
I joined the TCDC team in January 2025. I grew up in Merced until my family decided to move to SLO in 2013. I graduated from Mission College Preparatory High School in 2020. After high school, I earned my BA in Corporate Communications at Baylor University in Waco, Texas. Serving the community and doing outreach have been a part of my life. From serving at the Prado Day Center to volunteering for other nonprofits, I knew this career path would be the perfect fit for me. As a newcomer to the Development and nonprofit world, I’m beyond grateful for my experience at Tolosa.
Joining the team at TCDC has helped me gain a deeper understanding that children’s oral health care is a growing need that is often overlooked. It’s been a blessing to be able to help spread the word about Tolosa Children’s Dental Center and provide underserved children access to oral healthcare. As the Development Assistant, this position has been a huge learning opportunity, and I’m eager to see how our wonderful community can help this organization grow!