At Rivers + West Family Dentistry, we believe that early dental care builds the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. As trusted family dentists in Mt. Pleasant, SC, we are proud to provide a welcoming, kid-friendly environment where children can feel safe, understood, and empowered to care for their teeth.
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, children should see a dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting. In Charleston County, where Mt. Pleasant is located, only 65% of children under 18 had a dental visit in the past year (SC DHEC, 2023). We’re here to improve that number—one smile at a time.
Why Mt. Pleasant Parents Trust Us with Their Children’s Dental Health
Our office is led by two highly qualified and compassionate dentists:
- Dr. Chris Rivers, DMD, a Mt. Pleasant native and MUSC graduate, with dual degrees in Marine Biology and Business Administration.
- Dr. Kate West, DMD, a Clemson graduate and General Practice Residency-trained dentist with affiliations in pediatric and cosmetic dentistry.
We are known for:
- Gentle, age-appropriate care for toddlers to teens
- Patience and a calm, friendly approach to ease dental anxiety
- Prevention-focused care, including cleanings, fluoride, and sealants
- Expertise in treating children with special healthcare needs
What to Expect at Your Child’s First Visit
We make every child’s first dental appointment in our Mt. Pleasant office a positive experience. We take time to get to know your child, explain each tool and step, and even let them explore our dental “treasure chest” after their visit.
We offer:
- Infant oral exams
- Toddler and school-age cleanings
- Fluoride treatments and sealants
- Nutrition and habit counseling
Our approach helps children become familiar with dental care early—reducing fear and promoting long-term oral hygiene.
Why Pediatric Dentistry Matters
Childhood dental care is about more than just cavities. Early preventive visits:
- Help guide the development of permanent teeth
- Detect potential bite or alignment issues
- Establish good oral hygiene habits at home
- Reduce the risk of school absences due to dental problems
Our team educates parents and caregivers on proper brushing, flossing, and dietary tips that reduce the risk of early childhood decay—especially crucial in areas like Mt. Pleasant, where sugary snacks and sports drinks are common in school-age diets.
Local, Family-Focused, Preventive Dentistry
Our Mt. Pleasant practice is conveniently located on Johnnie Dodds Blvd, just minutes from schools like James B. Edwards Elementary and Laing Middle School. Families trust Rivers + West because we treat every child like our own—with compassion, patience, and respect.
We also offer same-day emergency appointments for kids with dental injuries or pain.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: When should my child have their first dental visit?
A: The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends by age 1 or within six months of the first tooth.
Q: Do you accept children with dental anxiety or special needs?
A: Yes! We have experience treating children with autism, sensory sensitivities, and dental phobia.
Q: What are sealants and should my child have them?
A: Sealants are thin coatings applied to molars to prevent cavities. We recommend them for most children starting around age 6.
Q: Do you allow parents in the room during appointments?
A: Absolutely. We encourage parents to be present to support and comfort their children.
Q: Are your services covered by dental insurance?
A: We work with most major dental plans and can explain your benefits before treatment.
Schedule Your Child’s Appointment Today
Let’s start your child’s dental journey with warmth, trust, and excellent care. For excellence in children’s dentistry, contact Rivers + West Family Dentistry. We love helping little smiles grow into healthy, confident ones.