Business Details
9 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Child's Trusted Dental Care in San Diego
Little Star Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics is committed to delivering exceptional dental care for children in San Diego, CA. Our board-certified pediatric dentists and orthodontists combine advanced training with a compassionate approach to create a welcoming environment for young patients. With expertise in laser treatments for lip and tongue ties, early orthodontic intervention, and comprehensive pediatric dental services, we prioritize gentle, patient-centered care. Our team utilizes state-of-the-art technology to ensure efficient, comfortable treatments while fostering lifelong oral health habits.Recognized for our collaborative approach to airway and sleep-related issues, we work closely with specialists to address complex needs. As active members of professional organizations like the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the International Affiliation of Tongue Tie Professionals, we uphold the highest standards of care. Our mission is to transform dental visits into positive experiences, helping every child achieve a healthy, confident smile.
Services
Pediatric Dentistry
Orthodontics
Lip and Tongue Tie Treatment
Airway Assessment
Dental Emergencies
Sedation Dentistry
Preventive Care
Special Needs Dentistry
Myofunctional Therapy
Sleep Apnea Solutions
Details
- Year established: 2017
Highlights and features
- Board-certified pediatric dentists with advanced laser surgery expertise
- Specialized treatment for lip/tongue ties and pediatric airway issues
- State-of-the-art technology for comfortable, efficient care
- Collaborative approach with lactation consultants and therapists
- Welcoming environment designed for children's comfort
Associations and certifications
- American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
- American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
- International Affiliation of Tongue Tie Professionals
Services
Lip and Tongue Tie Treatment
Advanced laser surgery for lip and tongue ties addresses feeding difficulties, speech issues, and oral development problems. Our board-certified specialists use CO2 lasers for precise, minimally invasive procedures with faster healing. This treatment improves breastfeeding outcomes, prevents dental decay, and supports proper craniofacial development through comprehensive post-operative care.
Pediatric Orthodontics
Specialized orthodontic care for children focuses on correcting bite issues and guiding jaw development. We offer traditional braces, Invisalign, and palatal expanders to create proper alignment and prevent future complications. Our approach emphasizes comfort and early intervention for optimal long-term results.
Airway Assessment
Comprehensive evaluation of pediatric airway issues identifies sleep-disordered breathing and obstructive apnea. We use advanced imaging and collaborate with ENT specialists to develop treatment plans that may include myofunctional therapy or orthodontic expansion for improved breathing patterns and sleep quality.
Dental Sedation
We provide safe sedation options for anxious or special needs patients. Our methods include nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation administered by experienced pediatric specialists to ensure comfortable, stress-free dental experiences while maintaining patient safety.
Preventive Care
Regular cleanings, fluoride treatments, and sealants form the foundation of our preventive care program. Our team educates families on proper oral hygiene and nutrition to establish lifelong healthy habits, with personalized guidance for each child's developmental stage.
People
Dr. Najmeh Hannanvash
Owner & Pediatric Dentist
Board-certified pediatric dentist with 10+ years of experience in laser frenectomies and airway-focused dentistry. Completed specialty training at University of Washington and Seattle Children's Hospital. Active member of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and International Affiliation of Tongue Tie Professionals.
Dr. Stephen O'Donnell
Pediatric Dentist
Specialist with experience treating children from infancy through adolescence. Completed training at Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry and has worked in major children's hospitals. Focuses on creating positive dental experiences and special needs care.
Dr. Sarah Borghei
Orthodontist
Board-certified orthodontist specializing in early intervention and Invisalign treatments. Completed advanced education at Roseman University and maintains active membership in the American Board of Orthodontics and California Dental Association.
Questions
When should I start cleaning my child's teeth?
Begin cleaning your child's gums with a soft cloth at birth. Introduce a soft-bristled toothbrush when the first tooth erupts, usually around 6 months.
At what age should I schedule the first dental visit?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends the first visit by age 1 or within 6 months of the first tooth erupting.
Do you accept dental insurance?
We accept most major dental insurance plans and will assist with claims processing. Please contact our office for specific plan verification.
What payment options are available?
We accept cash, credit cards, and offer flexible payment plans. Our team will discuss financial options during your initial consultation.
Can teenagers attend appointments alone?
Patients under 18 require parental consent for treatment. We recommend parents accompany children to initial visits, but older teens may attend follow-ups independently with prior arrangement.