Children's Dentist in El Paso, TX

Good habits start early, and a child who visits the dentist from a young age learns that checkups are routine. Many El Paso family and general dentists see children of all ages. Some families prefer a pediatric dentist, a specialist who treats only children; if that matters to you, ask when you book, and the practice will tell you who will see your child.

What happens at a child's dental visit

1. 1
   A gentle look: for babies and toddlers, the dentist often checks the teeth with the child on a parent's lap.
2. 2
   Cleaning and polish: older children get a cleaning to remove plaque and tartar.
3. 3
   Fluoride and sealants: fluoride varnish helps strengthen enamel, and sealants cover the grooves of back teeth where cavities often start.
4. 4
   Growth check: the dentist watches how baby teeth come in and fall out, and whether the bite is developing well.
5. 5
   Tips for parents: brushing, flossing, snacks and drinks, thumb sucking and pacifiers.

Fluoride and El Paso children

El Paso Water does not add fluoride to the city's water. Fluoride occurs naturally in the supply and varies by year; the 2025 drinking water report shows an average of 0.58 ppm. Ask your child's dentist whether fluoride varnish, fluoride toothpaste or another option makes sense, especially if your family drinks mostly bottled or filtered water.

Texas Medicaid, CHIP and Texas Health Steps

Most Texas Medicaid and CHIP members aged 20 and younger get dental care through a managed care dental plan. Texas Health Steps is the Medicaid checkup program for children, and it sets out a schedule of regular dental checkups; see the Texas Health Steps page for details. For help finding a dentist who takes your child's plan, call the Texas Health Steps line at 1-877-847-8377, Monday to Friday.

When you book with us, choose "Medicaid / CHIP" on the form so the practice can check your child's plan before it calls.

In El Paso, 11.2% of residents under 19 have no health insurance (Census ACS 2020 to 2024). If your child is uninsured, ask the practice about self-pay prices and payment plans, and see the insurance and payment page.

Helping your child feel at ease

• Talk about the visit in simple, positive words. Skip stories about shots or drills.
• Book a morning time if your child is at their best early in the day.
• Bring a favorite toy or blanket for a young child.
• Ask whether the dentist explains each step to children before doing it.
• If your child is anxious or has special needs, say so when the practice calls, so the visit can be planned around them.

Spanish at the dentist

Many El Paso children grow up speaking Spanish at home. If your child or a grandparent who brings them prefers Spanish, ask for Spanish-speaking staff when you book.

Common questions

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