A first visit that goes well
The first appointment is mostly about getting comfortable. Your child sits in the chair, meets Dr. Raju, sees the tools and gets to touch the ones that are safe to hold. We count teeth, look for decay, and clean gently if they are happy to let us.
Nothing is forced. If your child is not ready for part of the visit, we do what we can, praise what went well, and pick it up next time. Most children who start this way come back without a fuss.
If your child is afraid of the dentist
Some children arrive already frightened, often after a difficult experience somewhere else. That fear is real and we treat it as the first thing to solve, ahead of any dentistry.
We explain before we do, we stop when a hand goes up, and we work in short steps so your child stays in control. Dr. Raju is also trained in conscious sedation through DOCS, which gives older children and teens a calmer option for longer treatment when it is genuinely needed.
Protecting young teeth
Baby teeth hold space for the adult ones, so decay in them matters. Sealants shield the deep grooves of new molars where cavities usually start, and fluoride strengthens enamel while it is still forming.
We will also show you what actually helps at home: how long to brush, which floss is easiest for small hands, and which snacks and drinks cause the most damage.
Pediatric dentist or family dentist?
Pediatric dentistry is a recognised specialty: two to three years of extra residency after dental school, focused on children. Dr. Raju is a general dentist, not a pediatric specialist, and we will never tell you otherwise.
For most healthy children who need check-ups, cleanings, sealants, fluoride and the occasional filling, a family practice that is genuinely good with children is exactly right. Where a child needs a specialist, for extensive decay in a very young child, complex medical needs or treatment under general anesthesia, we say so and help you find one.
Medicaid, Medicare and the Healthy Michigan Plan
We accept Medicaid for children and adults, along with Medicare, the Healthy Michigan Plan and most PPO plans, and we file the claim for you. Children's dental coverage is generally the most comprehensive part of the Medicaid benefit.
If you have been told elsewhere that your child's coverage cannot be used, it is worth calling us. Phone (810) 715-3368 with the card in hand and the front desk will check your specific plan before the appointment.
Why patients choose Tender Dental Care for children's dentistry
- Unhurried first visits
- Patience with nervous and anxious children
- Sealants and fluoride to prevent decay
- Parents welcome to stay with their child
- The whole family seen in one office
- Most insurance plans accepted
Frequently asked questions
Most guidance suggests the first visit by a child's first birthday or within six months of their first tooth. If yours is older and has not been seen yet, that is fine too. Start now.
Yes, and it is a large part of what we do. We move slowly, explain everything first, and stop whenever your child needs a break. Many of our young patients arrive nervous after a bad experience elsewhere.
Of course. Most children do better with a parent beside them, and you are welcome to stay for the whole visit.
Where the schedule allows, yes. Families often book back-to-back appointments so one trip covers everyone.
We explain what is happening in plain words, numb the area gently, and keep the appointment short. For anxious or younger children we will discuss the comfort options that fit their age.
Yes, along with Medicare, the Healthy Michigan Plan and most PPO plans, and we file the claim for you. Call (810) 715-3368 with your card and we will check the specific plan before you come in.
Children's Dentistry at Tender Dental Care, 1024 N. Genesee Rd, Burton, MI 48509. Serving Flint, Grand Blanc, Davison, Flushing, Swartz Creek, Fenton and all of Genesee County. Call (810) 715-3368.