Pediatric Dentistry for Kids & Teens
Reviewed by Dr. Kathi Sample, Children’s Dentist at Sunset Children’s Dentistry · Updated October 13, 2026
Pediatric dentistry is dental care built just for children, from a baby’s first tooth through the teen years. At Sunset Children’s Dentistry, our children’s dentists, including a board-certified pediatric dentist, provide gentle pediatric dentistry for families across Lexington and the South Carolina Midlands, with clear answers for parents and no judgment.
Searching for a children’s dentist in Lexington, SC? Our office on Sunset Blvd is home base for every service on this page, and many families drive in from nearby neighborhoods, too. If you live east of the river, see how easy the trip is from our Columbia, SC pediatric dentistry page.
Whether you are looking for a dentist for kids who are nervous, a first visit for your baby, or children’s and teens dental care in one place, we meet each child where they are. Our children’s dentists in Lexington, SC see patients at our kids dentist office on Sunset Blvd, and we accept SC Medicaid and most major plans.
What is pediatric dentistry?
Pediatric dentistry is dental care made for children, from a baby’s first tooth through the teen years. At Sunset Children’s Dentistry in Lexington, it covers checkups, cleanings, preventive care, fillings and emergency visits in a child-friendly office.
Specialized children’s dentistry at Sunset Children’s Dentistry is designed around one simple belief: when children feel comfortable, they grow confident. Our children’s dental team provides thoughtful, child-centered care that supports healthy smiles at every stage of growth—from early childhood through the teen years and beyond.
We understand that parents are looking for an encouraging, judgment-free dental home right here in Lexington County. That is why our clinic completely reimagines traditional dental visits, replacing old-school clinical intimidation with fun, sensory-friendly experiences tailored to your child’s unique emotional comfort levels.
- Infants: Navigating their very first teeth and early milestone gum care routines.
- Toddlers: As a toddler dentist SC families rely on, we help little ones cooperate happily during their first routine teeth cleanings.
- Teens: Requiring advanced developmental tracking and protective sports mouth guards.
What pediatric dental services does Sunset Children’s Dentistry offer?
Sunset Children’s Dentistry offers checkups and cleanings, fluoride, sealants, digital X-rays, infant oral care, tooth-colored fillings, emergency care, special needs dentistry, sedation options (nitrous oxide and IV sedation), tongue-tie (frenectomy) treatment and orthodontics for children and teens in Lexington.
Special needs dentistry: Our children’s dentists are trained to care for children with autism, sensory sensitivities, developmental delays and medical conditions. We can plan longer or quieter appointments, preview the visit with you, and adjust the pace to what your child needs. Learn more about special needs dentistry.
Tongue-tie treatment: A tight tongue or lip tie can make nursing, eating or speech harder. We evaluate babies and children for ties and, when it helps, release them with a quick frenectomy in our office. Learn more about tongue-tie treatment.
Sedation options: For anxious children, very young patients and kids who need more extensive treatment, we offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and IV sedation. Nitrous oxide helps your child relax while staying awake and wears off soon after the visit. IV sedation is an option when a deeper level of sedation is safer or more comfortable for your child. We review your child’s health history, explain what to expect before and after, and help you choose the right option together. Learn more about sedation dentistry
Our dedicated team focuses heavily on preventive education, empowering young parents to confidently manage at-home brushing routines, thumb-sucking milestones, and healthy dietary habits. We never rush our young patients, ensuring your little one feels completely safe, secure, and fully validated during every single step of their treatment.
From routine diagnostics to active cavity prevention, we design customized solutions that fit seamlessly into your family’s hectic, busy lifestyle. You can easily view our full menu of specialized pediatric dental services to learn more about how we protect soft enamel from harmful sugar and plaque.
- Tell-Show-Do Method: We playfully explain and demonstrate our dental tools before utilizing them.
- Positive Reinforcement: Consistently rewarding bravery to build lasting dental confidence.
- Child-Friendly Language: Avoiding scary clinical jargon to eliminate natural childhood fears.
- Comfort Rewards: Providing fun tokens after appointments to keep office visits exciting.
STEP 1
Schedule Your Child’s Visit
Families can schedule online, by phone, or by text. Our team helps answer questions and prepare you for your child’s appointment.
STEP 2
A Warm, Kid-First Experience
From check-in to checkout, we focus on comfort, reassurance, and gentle communication tailored to your child’s needs.
STEP 3
Clear Guidance for Parents
We take time to explain what we see, what it means, and what comes next — without pressure or confusion.
STEP 4
Ongoing Support as Your Child Grows
Our children’s dental team supports your child through every stage of growth, helping build healthy habits and confident smiles.
Comfort-First Care
Every visit is designed to help children feel safe, supported, and understood.
Confidence-Building Experiences
Positive dental visits help children feel proud of themselves and their smiles.
Clear Communication for Parents
We explain everything clearly so parents feel informed and confident in decisions.
Continuity as Children Grow
Because Dr. Christine Esposito is a board-certified orthodontist working out of this same office, the children we see for cleanings can move into orthodontic care, including early orthodontic treatment for kids, as they get older without starting over somewhere new.
Why Families Choose Sunset Children's Dentistry
For more than 20 years, Sunset Children's Dentistry has been a trusted children’s dental home for families across Lexington. Our experienced children’s dentists combine clinical excellence with warmth, patience, and clear communication — creating an experience that feels different from the moment you arrive.
We believe pediatric dentistry should be supportive, never rushed, and always centered on the child’s emotional wellbeing. That philosophy is reflected in our team culture, long-standing staff, and the relationships we build with families over time.
- Board-certified pediatric dentist available
- Kid-focused, comfort-first philosophy
- Clear, pressure-free communication
- One convenient Lexington location for dental and orthodontic care
- A seamless path into orthodontic care when the time is right
Dr. Kathi Sample
Trusted Children's Dentist in Lexington, SC
Dr. Jeffrey Jackson
Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist in Lexington, SC
Pediatric Dentistry FAQs
Answers to common questions parents ask when searching for a children’s dentist near me in Lexington.
Insurance & Benefits
We accept many dental insurance plans and help families understand their benefits.
Flexible Payment Options
Our team can review payment options and answer questions so families feel confident moving forward.
Clear Financial Guidance
No surprises — we explain recommendations, timelines, and costs clearly before care begins.
Areas We Serve Near Lexington, SC
Our pediatric dentistry team cares for children from across Lexington County and the Midlands. Families visit us from:
- Lexington, SC (our office at 5080 Sunset Blvd)
- West Columbia & Columbia
- Red Bank
- Oak Grove
- Gilbert