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Pediatric Dentistry

Pediatric dentists specialize in caring for growing smiles, with advanced training focused on the unique needs of infants, children, and teens. They create fun, welcoming visits and explain dental care in ways kids can easily understand. Schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist today to help your child build a healthy, confident smile.

kid brushing teeth

Did You Know...

Most children lose their first around the age of 6.

Appointments are available within 5 days

Your Child's First Visit

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that children see a Pediatric Dentist before their first birthday or when their first teeth come in. Dental problems can begin early and we know children need healthy teeth to speak and chew food! Please schedule with any pediatric dentist near you.

Meet You and Your Child

The first step is to meet you and your child! We'll ask a couple of basic questions regarding your child's oral health and answer any questions you may have. You're welcome to accompany your child throughout their appointment.

Exam and Cleaning

Depending how old your child is, exams usually involve looking around the gums, teeth, jaws, and bite for healthy growth and development. Your child's visit also includes a gentle cleaning to remove plaque, tartar, and stains.

Schedule Your Next Appointment

If your child's teeth are healthy, you'll schedule another visit in six months. If something was found, your dentist will provide recommendations and help you schedule a follow-up appointment.

Have Questions? We Have Answers!

I’m pregnant. Should I see the dentist?

Regular checkups and healthy dental habits can help prevent conditions from developing or worsening. Although not all mothers experience these, some experience pregnancy gingivitis, an inflammation of your gums caused by hormonal changes. Your gums may become sensitive or bleed, developing into a more severe form of gum disease.

Pregnant moms are also at an increased risk of tooth decay and cavities. Morning sickness can expose your teeth to increased acids, which can eat away at your enamel. Please tell us if your pregnant when you check-in.

How do I take care of newborn gums?

When your newborn first flashes that gummy smile, that’s a sign that it’s time for you to begin their dental health journey. Because newborns don’t have oral bacteria, your primary focus at this stage is to prevent their mouths from full colonization. That means not sharing any utensils and avoiding cross-usage.

Aside from preventive measures, parents can also start their kids on their oral hygiene routine by cleaning gums with a soft cloth and water. That way, even if their babies contract oral bacteria, this doesn’t mean instant colonization.

When do all the baby teeth come in?

During the first few years of your child’s life, all 20 baby teeth will push through the gums, and most children will have their full set of these teeth in place by age three. A baby’s front four teeth usually erupt or push through the gums at about six months of age. As their teeth erupt, some babies may become fussy, sleepless and irritable, lose their appetite, or drool more than usual.

Can my kid brush their own teeth?

Children typically don’t develop the skills to brush effectively until they are 7 years old or until they can sweep a floor without missing any spots. Continue helping your child brush their teeth helps them practice!

Why visit the dentist when my child has never had cavities?

Regular dental visits help your child stay cavity-free. Teeth cleanings remove debris that build upon the teeth, irritate the gums and cause decay. Hygiene instructions improve your child’s brushing and flossing, leading to cleaner teeth and healthier gums.

My kid still sucks their thumb. Does it matter?

If your child is 5 and over, sucking their thumb can pose problems with the proper growth of the mouth and teeth. The pressure can lead to crooked front teeth, resulting in dental problems such as overbite, along with general bite and spacing problems. 

Patient Reviews

Ellen L. Avatar
Ellen L.
3/09/2026
Nina is the best! She is very fast and professional at her work, and is a great person to talk to as always.
Leslie L. Avatar
Leslie L.
3/07/2026
From the first dental visit of their life, as a toddler, or all the way to being being a teen getting dentist and orthodontist... my kids have always felt comfortable and respected. They frequently ask when they get to go to their next appointment. I'm sure it sounds like a commercial. I had a lot of stress about finding a good dentist, because of nightmare stories my friend's kids experienced. There was no stress or concerns of that at Hawaii Family Dental in Kona. I got to stay with my children, while a Disney movie of their choice was playing, and I got to make glove balloon animals while they were getting their teeth done.... and leave them to cheer up other kids. Can't recommend them enough. My kids will be sad when they have to switch to adult dental. They will miss all her jokes and the ways she makes them giggle and accidently splash her... good thing she wears goggles and protective apron. 🤣
Tabitha O. Avatar
Tabitha O.
3/06/2026
Dr Sieka is so amazing! We are so lucky to have her on the Island
Jaynalynn M. Avatar
Jaynalynn M.
3/05/2026
Dr. Westphal was wonderful with both of my children (both under 5). He was very caring, patient, and non-judgmental, which made the visit much easier for them. His team was also very friendly and expedient. They took the time to make my kids feel comfortable and safe. I’m very grateful for the positive experience and would highly recommend him to other parents.
Joya W. Avatar
Joya W.
2/22/2026
I want to say "Mahalo plenty" to all the staff that I came in contact w for delivery of my occlusional guard w Dr. TAPUA. She is so hospitable and always asks me: "How am I doing"? Her singing lowers my high blood pressure cuz I get white coat syndrome at dentist & doctors appts. Her dad is a veteran so I feel she respects me for my service too.Two hours later, the same day; they had a cancelation w Hygienist Nina and she called Dr.TAPUA to see me again, the second time in same day. How lucky for me and special thanks to Malakai for informing me of that cancelation. And Nina, she is tough, tells it like it is but so thorough too. She told me to get a water pik to use after I brush my teeth and floss; so I did and it is a teeth saver for sure! She is calm, cool & collective, really knows her job and is dedicated to the core plus has a sense of humor. She even cleans my top flipper, so I bring it every time I come for a cleaning. My youngest granddaughter's name is Nina too; so I always show her pictures on my phone.I liked the new virtual check-in and talking without the gauze covered microphone to review the data on the screen and sign to confirm ur data is unchanged or update any changes. Angela always happy, receptive, courteous and professional. I especially appreciate that all staff value my time too. Scheduled my next appointment in August for my next cleaning andcwas on my way home. Unfortunately, I had to call yesterday because I broke a crown just eating a salad 🥗 🙃. When I called, Lourdes gave me an appt and respectfully put in request to get approval for treatment from the VA (cuz am a veteran) w Dr. Tapua in March or sooner if possible. At least I still have all my front teeth, top & bottom, no windows...YET, God willing!. "Aging ain't for sissys lol". So grateful!
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Trenton V. Avatar
Trenton V.
2/21/2026
Dr.Shin is top notch and so personable. All his assistants thus far have been amazing as well. I highly recommend this dental office for not only ortho with Dr.Shin, but also cleanings and dental work by the professional and top tier dentists Dr.Siddiqui and Dr. Fernandez, who I’ve also had the pleasure of receiving care from. Shoutout to Gabby on da screen check in too for always bringing a warm smile and aloha spirit. Can’t forget Alexi either! Go to this office now, go!!
Andrea H. Avatar
Andrea H.
2/20/2026
They were great and always attentive to my daughter needs and Dr Sieka is the best ! She is so funny
Kristy K. Avatar
Kristy K.
2/18/2026
The team did a great job, Dr. & nurse made sure my daughter was well aware of what work needed to be done, and made her very comfortable.
Rebecca S. Avatar
Rebecca S.
2/17/2026
Very professional yet personable. Very well managed, communications, comfortable surroundings. 5 stars to Dr Mello, Hygentist Yanna and 5+ stars to Dr "Gene" They all show real care and that you are not just a number 🙂
Brazille M. Avatar
Brazille M.
2/14/2026
They are always good to me and my son here. 🤍
preserve andgrow Avatar
preserve a.
2/13/2026
Dr. Jason and the technicians are very professional, efficient and personable. Hishly recommended.
daron k. Avatar
daron k.
2/13/2026
Dr. Sieka is simply amazing! She takes the time to make the kids are comfortable and works hard to ensure they have a good time! She’s engaging and knowledgeable. I cannot sing her praises enough!
Yordano M. Avatar
Yordano M.
2/13/2026
Un exelente servicio son geniales en atender amables muy serviciales gracias de antemano
Sandra Kim Avatar
Sandra K.
2/06/2026
Always great professional services from Jen . Front desk personnel are always friendly and efficient.
Yordano M. Avatar
Yordano M.
2/06/2026
A pesar de no hablar español son muy tratables y asen lo posible por tener una buena comunicación gracias de antemano 🙏
Estella Euclide Avatar
Estella E.
2/05/2026
My daughter had a wonderful visit with Dr Shin today. He is very encouraging and she loved that he showed her photos of what her teeth looked like before invisilign compared to what they look like today. She was very excited about her progress 😬♥️
Caroline S. Avatar
Caroline S.
2/05/2026
We love Hawaii Family Dental and Dr Westphal is amazing with our kiddos and he works with them where they’re at.
Thomas K. Avatar
Thomas K.
2/04/2026
Very professional from check in to being brought to cleaning, the cleaning person I am seeing her in 6 months
Barb M. Avatar
Barb M.
1/30/2026
Office personnel were all very friendly and my dentist Dr. Young did a great job of explaining the procedures and making sure I was comfortable.
Jowin C. Avatar
Jowin C.
1/30/2026
I really enjoyed having Dr.Chang as my doctor for my "TEETH" she's very funny and can go with the flow of having a fun personality. Looking forward to having her as my doctor for a life time. Oh, I forgot the other person is Tina (side kick "LOL") They both make a good, fun team. They greet you with a smile and small conversation then we laugh. Just like "Ohana" and yet we're not related. I've gone to doctors where they just do their thing no interaction. So serious. I think they call it bedside manner. "NO" Besides Tina, theirs Lifan my billing/collector$$. Very patient he explains the "Best" he can. You can call and he'll do his best to work things out. I really enjoy my time at the Dentist with these people! They All Deserve 5 *****'s each. Wonderful mix bag of People! Love It and Mahalo, Jowin Carey