Children’s Dentistry

Kids don’t always love going to the dentist — but they often leave here happy. At Inova Dental Clinic, we make children’s visits calm, gentle, and even a little fun, so your child builds a healthy relationship with dental care from the very start.

Children’s Dentistry in Sterling, VA

Dr. Mahnaz Jafari has been caring for families in Loudoun County for more than 25 years. She knows that a child’s first few dental experiences shape how they feel about oral care for the rest of their life — and she takes that seriously. Our office is judgment-free, unhurried, and built to make kids feel safe.

We see children of all ages, from the first baby tooth through the teen years. Whole-family care means your kids can have their appointment the same day you do, no separate pediatric practice needed.

What we do at each visit

Every routine visit includes a gentle cleaning, a full oral exam, and a conversation with you about what we found. If your child needs fluoride or sealants, we’ll explain why before we do anything. No surprises.

• Dental cleanings and exams — every six months keeps cavities and gum problems in check early
• Fluoride treatments — a quick, painless layer of protection for developing enamel
• Dental sealants — thin coatings on back molars where kids are most prone to cavities
• Dental X-rays — taken only when necessary, at low exposure, to catch issues we can’t see by eye
• Orthodontic monitoring — watching how teeth and the jaw are developing so we can refer at the right time

What to expect at your child’s first visit

If it’s your child’s first appointment, we keep it relaxed. Dr. Jafari will introduce herself, let your child get comfortable in the chair, and go at their pace. We explain everything before we do it, and we always welcome questions — from you or from your child.

We recommend the first visit around your child’s first birthday, or when the first tooth comes in. Starting early means we catch small problems before they become big ones, and your child learns that the dentist is nothing to dread.

Frequently asked questions

When should my child first see a dentist?

Around their first birthday, or when their first tooth appears — whichever comes first. Early visits let us monitor development and catch anything unusual before it becomes a bigger issue. They also help your child get comfortable with the dental environment while there’s nothing to treat.

How often do children need dental checkups?

Every six months is the standard recommendation for most kids. If your child is cavity-prone or has an orthodontic concern, Dr. Jafari may suggest coming in more often. We’ll let you know what makes sense for your child specifically.

Are dental X-rays safe for children?

Yes. We use digital X-rays, which have a very low radiation dose — far less than what kids encounter in everyday life. We only take X-rays when there’s a clinical reason to do so, not on a fixed schedule, so your child isn’t exposed unnecessarily.

What can I do at home to help prevent cavities?

Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste (a rice-grain amount for toddlers, a pea-size amount for kids 3 and up), floss once daily, and limit sugary snacks and drinks between meals. Regular cleanings here handle the buildup that brushing misses. We’re happy to show your child the right technique at their next visit.

My child is nervous about the dentist. What should I do?

Tell us before the appointment. Dr. Jafari and our team are used to working with anxious kids, and we can adjust the pace and approach to make things easier. Bring a comfort item if that helps, and try to keep your own language around dentist visits neutral — kids pick up on adult anxiety fast.

Does Inova Dental accept insurance for children’s visits?

Yes. We accept Medicaid and most major insurance plans. If you’re unsure whether your child’s coverage is accepted, call us at (703) 433-1400 and we’ll check before you come in.

Ready to bring your child in? Call us at (703) 433-1400 or schedule a visit — we’re here Monday through Friday, 8am–5pm, and Saturday mornings by appointment.