Pediatric Dentist
in Gaithersburg and Clarksburg, MD
When your child needs dental care, choosing the right provider makes all the difference. Dr. James Tong is a board-certified pediatric dentist and orthodontist in Gaithersburg and Clarksburg, MD. For 30 years, he has provided gentle treatment for infants through teens, focusing on comfort for anxious children and clear communication with parents.
We offer convenient Saturday appointments to fit your busy schedule. Request an appointment online today or call our office.
Gaithersburg: (301) 216-1780 | Clarksburg: (301) 515-5100
The Benefits of a Unified Family Dental Home
Managing appointments across multiple dental offices creates unnecessary scheduling conflicts and redundant paperwork. A single dental home simplifies your family logistics while giving everyone access to specialized care. If you need a pediatric dentist in Gaithersburg or Clarksburg, MD, we offer pediatric-focused treatments alongside comprehensive adult dentistry so parents and children can coordinate same-day visits.
Specialized Pediatric Care and Convenience
Our younger patients benefit from advanced clinical training. Dr. James Tong pursued specialized education in pediatric dentistry and orthodontics at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry, where he serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor. That depth of training lets us monitor your child’s dental development with a complete understanding of their history.
To help busy households coordinate care, our office provides Saturday hours. Keeping your family’s appointments with one consistent team means clearer communication and a more comfortable experience overall.
What to Expect During Your Child's First Dental Visit
Children should visit the dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth. Early visits build comfort, monitor jaw development, and prevent decay. We keep this introduction simple, calm, and collaborative.
During this brief appointment, our team provides
Knee-to-knee exam
Your child rests in your lap while we gently inspect gums and emerging teeth.
Developmental check
We assess oral growth, look for early decay, and outline a follow-up plan.
Parent coaching
We share practical home care guidance on brushing, flossing, and dietary habits.
Comprehensive Children's Dentistry Services in Gaithersburg & Clarksburg, MD
Our clinical focus spans from a child’s first tooth to their emerging adult smile, combining protective care with conservative restoration. As a family-focused practice, we provide the gentle preventive care you expect from a board-certified pediatric dentist. When treatment is required, we explain every option in plain language so you can make informed decisions.
Through timely screening, we can identify alignment issues early. We offer an early orthodontic evaluation to guide jaw development and reduce the need for major corrective treatment later. For anxious children, we also provide gentle sedation options to keep them comfortable throughout their visit.
Creating a Gentle and Comfortable Dental Experience for Your Child
Many children and parents feel nervous about dental visits. Our goal is to build long-term comfort through a patient, kid-focused approach. Amenities like our interactive game room and chairside SmartTVs help children relax before and during their visit.
To support a positive experience, we use clear, age-appropriate behavioral techniques:
- Routine preventive care, digital X-rays, and comprehensive exams.
- Pediatric dentistry with gentle cleanings, sealants, and fluoride treatments.
- Restorative care including mercury-free fillings, crowns, and implants.
- Orthodontic treatment including traditional braces and Invisalign clear aligners.
- Emergency appointments for same-day evaluation of dental pain.
- Periodontal Services: including gum grafts, bone grafts, and implants
We also provide accommodations for sensory-sensitive or neurodivergent children. When extra support is necessary, we offer safe sedation options, including nitrous oxide and conscious sedation, covered in detail on our sedation dentistry page. Please mention your child’s anxiety when booking so we can prepare a supportive visit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric Dentistry
When should my child first see a pediatric dentist?
Children should have their first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting. This early appointment focuses on preventive care, checking jaw development, and introducing your child to the clinical environment in a positive way. It also provides personalized coaching on proper oral hygiene habits, teething comfort, and preventing baby bottle tooth decay.
Do you see parents and kids at the same practice?
Yes, we operate as a complete family dental home, treating patients of all ages under one roof. Providing pediatric, orthodontic, and family dentistry both of our dental offices – Gaithersburg and Clarksburg, MD – eliminates the scheduling complexity of driving to different practices. Families can coordinate cleanings and checkups for multiple household members on the same day.
What if my child has a dental emergency?
If your child experiences a dental emergency, contact our office immediately through our contact page or call us directly. For a knocked-out permanent tooth, keep the tooth moist in milk or saliva and seek care right away. A loose or knocked-out baby tooth typically does not require reinsertion but still needs an evaluation. Have information ready about when the injury occurred and whether your child is in pain or bleeding so our team can guide your next steps.
What sedation options do you offer for anxious children?
We offer safe conscious sedation and nitrous oxide to help children who feel nervous or require restorative treatments. Every sedation service begins with a thorough health consultation and safety screening to identify the most appropriate approach for your child’s physical and emotional needs. For a detailed breakdown of our safety protocols, please visit our sedation dentistry page.
Do you take dental insurance or offer payment options?
Our practice accepts most dental PPO insurance plans and files claims directly on your behalf to minimize out-of-pocket stress. For families without dental insurance, we offer the Dental Smile Club membership plan, which covers two clinical exams, two cleanings, and necessary X-rays. We also accept CareCredit third-party financing to help break up the cost of larger restorative treatment plans. For more information, visit our Payments and Insurance page.
How often should kids get dental checkups and cleanings?
Children should generally receive professional dental checkups and cleanings every six months. This regular cadence lets us remove plaque buildup, apply protective sealants, and monitor developing bite patterns. Regular cleanings are the most effective way to prevent cavities and determine if your child might benefit from early orthodontic treatment as their permanent teeth begin to emerge. For more information, visit our Dental Cleanings and Exams page.
Begin your tong care journey
Give Your Child a Healthier Smile
Our experienced pediatric dental team provides gentle, comfortable care for children of all ages. Schedule your child’s visit and experience stress-free dentistry your family can trust.