Patient Information
Everything You Need to Know for Your Child’s Visit
At NorCal Pediatric Dentistry, we believe that clear communication and preparation help make dental visits more successful — and less stressful — for both kids and parents. Whether it’s your child’s very first visit or you're transferring from another provider, this page is your go-to resource for patient information, including what to expect, how to prepare, and how we support your family every step of the way.
We welcome families from Santa Rosa, Rohnert Park, Petaluma, Sonoma, and Sebastopol and are proud to provide personalized, judgment-free dental care in a calm, compassionate setting.
Your Child’s First Visit
Your child’s first appointment is all about comfort, connection, and communication. We’ll take the time to get to know your child, assess their oral health, and help them feel safe and supported in our office.
What to Expect:
- A friendly tour of the office
- Introduction to our dental team and tools
- Review of your child’s medical and dental history
- A gentle exam and cleaning (if appropriate for age)
- Digital X-rays if needed for diagnosis
- Time for parents to ask questions and share concerns
We follow the guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) and recommend that children see a dentist by age one or within six months of their first tooth. However, it’s never too late to start — and we’re here to meet your family where you are.
Insurance and Billing
We accept most major dental insurance plans and will bill your insurance provider as a courtesy. While we are out of network with most plans, many families find that their benefits still provide partial reimbursement for covered services.
We’re happy to help you understand how your insurance works and provide a cost estimate before treatment.
Financial Policy
Payment is due at the time of service unless prior arrangements have been made. We accept:
- Cash
- All major credit cards
- HSA and FSA accounts
- Financing through CareCredit.
If you have questions about costs, coverage, or payment options, our front office team is here to help guide you.
Financing & Payment Plans
We believe every child deserves high-quality dental care, regardless of insurance status. That’s why we offer third-party financing options that make it easier to manage treatment costs over time.
A healthcare credit card that offers interest-free or low-interest financing plans for qualified applicants.
Ask us about applying for financing during your visit, or get pre-qualified online before your appointment.
Membership Plans
Don’t have dental insurance? We’ve got you covered. Our in-office membership plans are designed to make routine care affordable and predictable — with no deductibles, no waiting periods, and no yearly maximums.
Our plans typically include:
- Two preventive cleanings per year
- Routine exams and digital X-rays
- Fluoride treatments
- Discounts on additional services
Contact our office to learn more about current membership options and pricing.
Special Accommodations
We welcome patients of all abilities and are committed to making dentistry accessible, inclusive, and stress-free.
Our team has extensive experience providing care to children with physical, emotional, developmental, or sensory challenges. Whether your child benefits from extra time, a quiet environment, or sedation dentistry, we’ll create a plan that respects their needs and supports a positive experience.
Visit our Dentistry for Patients with Disabilities page to learn more.
Continuing Care and Follow-Ups
Oral health is a journey, and we’re with your child at every stage — from baby teeth to braces and beyond. We recommend:
- Routine cleanings and exams every six months
- Digital X-rays as needed to monitor development
- Personalized preventive care plans based on risk level
- Ongoing communication with you and your child to build trust
If your child has had a recent dental procedure, we’ll schedule timely follow-ups and remain available by phone or email for questions during recovery.
Have Questions Before You Visit?
Our friendly front desk team is here to help. Whether you're curious about treatment options, scheduling, insurance, or preparing your child for their first visit, we’re just a phone call or email away.
Ready to get started?