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Gentle, Preventive Dental Care for Growing Smiles
Pediatric Dentistry in Palo Alto, CA
Establishing healthy dental habits starts early—and choosing the right provider makes all the difference. At Denise Henderson DDS, we offer personalized pediatric dentistry that makes every child feel safe, heard, and cared for. Our goal is to provide the kind of positive, educational experience that builds a foundation for lifelong oral health.
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Families in Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Mountain View, Los Altos, and Stanford trust Dr. Henderson as their children’s dentist, known for her warm, compassionate approach and ability to make even the youngest patients feel comfortable in the chair.
What Is Pediatric Dentistry?
Pediatric dentistry focuses on the unique dental needs of children—from toddlers getting their first tooth to teens undergoing orthodontic care. This includes everything from cleanings and fluoride treatments to monitoring growth and addressing common childhood dental issues like cavities, thumb-sucking, or early enamel erosion.
As a family and pediatric dentist, Dr. Henderson combines clinical precision with a child-friendly demeanor to ensure visits are informative, supportive, and stress-free for both kids and parents.
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Our Kid-Friendly Dental Services
We provide comprehensive children’s dentistry services in a calm and welcoming environment, including:
- Gentle cleanings and exams to monitor development and prevent decay
- Digital X-rays with low radiation exposure, only when necessary
- Fluoride treatments to strengthen enamel and prevent cavities
- Dental sealants for added protection on hard-to-reach molars
- Monitoring of jaw development, bite alignment, and eruption patterns
- Behavior guidance and oral hygiene education for kids and caregivers
- Cavity treatment using tooth-colored fillings
Whether it’s your child’s first dental visit or a return appointment, our team takes time to answer questions, offer reassurance, and build trust every step of the way.
When Should My Child See a Pediatric Dentist?
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, children should have their first dental visit by age one—or within six months of their first tooth erupting. Early visits allow your kid’s dentist to track development, introduce healthy habits, and catch small issues before they become bigger problems.
From that first appointment onward, we recommend regular six-month checkups to keep your child’s smile on track as they grow.
A Welcoming Space Designed for Kids and Parents
We know that a child’s impression of the dentist can last a lifetime. That’s why we’ve created a calm, supportive setting where young patients can feel safe and at ease. Dr. Henderson and her team use kid-friendly language, explain each step clearly, and never rush appointments—so children leave with a sense of pride and confidence.
Parents are always welcome in the treatment room, and we take the time to discuss oral care tips, nutritional guidance, and preventive strategies that can be implemented at home.
Why Choose Denise Henderson DDS for Your Child’s Dental Care?
Choosing a children’s dentist is about more than just clinical skill—it’s about creating a positive, ongoing relationship built on trust and communication.
Dr. Henderson is a mother, an experienced provider, and a strong advocate for preventive care. Her patients and their families appreciate her thoughtful approach, gentle touch, and commitment to individualized care.
As your local pediatric dentist in Palo Alto, she offers:
- A calm and nurturing environment for kids
- Advanced diagnostic tools tailored for pediatric care
- Education-based treatment plans
- Consultations for new patients
- Continuity of care from early childhood through the teen years
Schedule Your Child’s Visit with a Trusted Kid’s Dentist in Palo Alto
We’re proud to be a trusted provider of children’s dentistry for families throughout the Palo Alto area. Whether you’re preparing for a first visit or looking for a new home for your child’s dental care, we’re here to make the process easy, supportive, and tailored to your needs.
Call (650) 327-4755 or schedule an appointment online to book a visit with Dr. Denise Henderson, your local provider for gentle, expert pediatric dentistry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my child is nervous about the dentist?
That’s completely normal. Our team specializes in working with children who are anxious or shy about dental visits. We go slow, explain each step, and work at their pace.
Are baby teeth really that important?
Yes. Baby teeth play a key role in speech development, nutrition, and guiding permanent teeth into place. Taking care of them early sets the stage for lifelong oral health.
Do kids need fluoride treatments or sealants?
Many children benefit from these preventive services. During your child’s visit, we’ll evaluate their risk for decay and discuss whether fluoride or sealants are recommended.
How can I help my child prepare for their first visit?
Read books about the dentist, use positive language, and avoid saying anything that might sound scary. Our team is happy to walk you through exactly what to expect.
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Pediatric Dentistry That Puts Your Child First
A healthy smile begins with great habits and great experiences. At Denise Henderson DDS, we take pride in offering comprehensive children’s dentistry that’s educational, empowering, and tailored to your child’s unique needs.