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620 California Blvd Suite G, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401Located in the California Medical Center

- Our Pediatric Dentistry Philosophy -

Your Child Always Comes First
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“Your loved one deserves the best in all aspects of life, including their ongoing oral healthcare. At Coastal Pediatric Dentistry, we are committed to providing modern, safe dentistry for kids and state-of-the-art technology in a comfortable, home-like atmosphere that helps even the youngest patients feel at ease. We can’t wait to meet your family soon!”

Signature of San Luis Obispo pediatric dentist Dr. James Forester
Dr. James A. Forester
San Luis Obispo pediatric dentist Dr. James ForesterJames A. Forester, DDS

- Helping Kids Love to Smile - From Birth to College

All dentists are not created equal. Some only treat adults. Others see families. We focus exclusively on kids – from birth to age 18. While Dr. Forester is a big kid at heart, he takes the smile of each and every nearby patient very seriously. In fact, he is among the less than 1% of all dentists in the US who are Board Certified in Pediatric Dentistry. His expertise combined with a commitment to providing everything from routine checkups to emergency dentistry for kids ensures that we can help your child build a smile that will last a lifetime.

Meet Our Pediatric Dentist

- Why San Luis Obispo Families Love Us -

Refreshingly Different. Distinctly Dependable.

Here in San Luis Obispo, our team doesn’t believe in providing care that’s simply “good enough” – we want to exceed expectations and provide dentistry for infants, children, and teens that makes everyone walk out of our office with a smile.

- San Luis Obispo’s Top-Rated Children’s Dentist -

Over 400 5-Star Reviews on Google

“Everything about this office is wonderful! We went to another dental office for our first child, and after wanting a second option for treatment for our daughter, we were recommended we come to Coastal pediatric dentistry and SO happy we found your office! My kids love coming in! Now just need to figure out how I can disguise myself as a child so I can be a patient too thanks for all you do for the community!”

Amy H.

“Our child had an issue where two of his molars didn't calcify and needed crowns. We were not patients of Coastal Pediatric at this time. We contacted them because we were frustrated with our current dentist not treating the situation with the urgency we felt it deserved.   Coastal Pediatric confirmed an appointment that same day. They agreed that this needed to be resolved urgently so despite not being their patients, they moved around schedules to get a crown placed within a week of the original appointment. It was done before our original dentist even had us on their calendar.   The whole process was great considering the circumstances. The people working there are caring and professional. We plan to continue to send our son there.”

Sean Graham

“I can't say enough good things about Coastal Pediatric Dentistry! From routine cleanings to fillings and more, the staff and Dentists make each child feel like they are the only one there. Not a frown in the place, yeah even at the dentist office. The environment is welcoming from the minute you are greeted when you walk in the door to checkout and scheduling your next visit. I highly recommend Dr. Forester and Coastal Pediatric Dentistry.”

Katie Morris

“Wow! Who knew going to the dentist could be a highlight in my kids day. They are always so excited to get their teeth cleaned. Every step of this office is geared towards a positive experience for the kids and parents. Walk in; feel free to draw, read, have a cup of coffee (mom or dad) and even scroll an IPad… from there, head to your bright and cheery room for your cleaning while you watch your favorite cartoon. A balloon animal for a successful cleaning and a toy from the toy machine when you check out. Rewarded for being cavity free. Tips and tricks for parents on how to keep the brushing and flossing consistent. Smiles, attention to detail and discussion about what to expect before their next cleaning. This place exceeds expectations in service and experience.”

Austin Johnson
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- No Shots • No Drills • No Pain -

Solea® Laser Dentistry

Child receiving laser dentistry treatment

Our pediatric dentists in your area are committed to providing the most effective and comfortable care possible for each special patient, and that includes the regular use of the revolutionary Solea Laser. With this tool, we can provide easy frenectomies (“tongue-tie” surgery) and even place fillings without uncomfortable shots, scary drills, or any discomfort whatsoever.

Learn About Laser Dentistry

- Committed to Community -

From sponsoring and coaching little league baseball to participating in the Miracle Mile 4 Kids, our entire team in your area loves living on the Central Coast. We also believe in giving back to those who are less fortunate. As the former Dental Director of the Tolosa Children’s Dental Center, Dr. Forester has worked tirelessly over the last 8 years helping children smile. If there is a program that helps kids, we are likely involved. Please join us in making our community better for everyone.

Smiling man and child outdoors Smiling little boy Team members volunteering Team member un bunny costume Dentist and team member at community event Team member making balloon animals Mother and child Smiling mother and child outdoors

Get Involved with Us

- FAQs -

You may say to yourself, before I schedule an appointment with a children’s dentist near me, I want to know more! Here are common questions patients and their families ask us.

What Are the Benefits of Visiting a Pediatric Dentist?

In addition to having extra specialized training in diagnosing and treating infants, toddlers, children, and teens, our pediatric dentists and the rest of our team love interacting with kids and teaching them the importance and fun of taking care of their dental health. We understand how vital these positive early dental experiences can be. In fact, research repeatedly finds kids who build healthy habits early in life are much more likely to continue dental care into adulthood, which means they can enjoy stronger smiles their whole life!

Why Should I Take My Teenager to a Pediatric Dentist?

Although your teen may disagree, they are not fully grown adults yet! They are still developing in terms of their oral cavity. As a result, pediatric dentists like Dr. Forester and Dr. Natalie are still the most knowledgeable experts in what they need to become grown-ups with a strong, healthy smile. At Coastal Pediatric Dentistry, we customize attention to each patient, so even your teen will feel comfortable, heard, and respected with our team.

When Should I Start Dental Appointments for My Child?

Like the American Pediatric Dental Association and the American Dental Association, we strongly urge parents and guardians to schedule their child’s first dental appointment six months after the first tooth arrives, or at their first birthday, and coming back twice per year after that. Even this early on, we can help you and your child! We can give you advice for handling teething and other development concerns, help your little one feel at ease and familiar with our team and office, and set them up for happy visits in the future.

If, however, your baby seems to have issues with breastfeeding or eating solid foods, don’t hesitate to bring them in sooner than six months. They could have a tongue or lip tie, hindering their oral function. We can treat this problem with a nearly pain-free laser, vastly improving their feeding and thriving.

Why Should We Take Care of Baby Teeth?

It may seem counterintuitive to spend time and effort maintaining baby or primary teeth when they eventually come out of your child’s mouth. In fact, you may think you can ignore your child’s teeth until the permanent ones erupt. However, these tiny teeth are important too! Not only do they allow your child to eat and try new foods, but they also help guide the permanent teeth to line up properly as they develop underneath the gums. Plus, the enamel on baby teeth is thinner, which means that even a tiny cavity can cause your child pain. Diligent, daily brushing and flossing will establish these habits, increasing the chances that they’ll take excellent care of their adult teeth when they finally arrive.

- Our Affordable Payment Options -

It’s important for us to be here for our patients and their parents throughout the entire treatment process, including when it comes time to navigate the cost. In addition to accepting most dental insurance plans that allow freedom of choice to its patients, our team at Coastal Pediatric Dentistry also welcomes flexible financing with CareCredit. If you’d like further details, just let us know – we’d be happy to answer any questions you have!

- Finding Our Pediatric Dental Office Near You -

Whether you’re interested in learning more about dentistry for toddlers or you need to schedule your teen’s last dental cleaning before college, we’re here to help! Our office is conveniently located off the 101 at 620 California Blvd STE G in San Luis Obispo. Nearby, you’ll find Coast Periodontics and Laser Surgery as well as Pain & Spine Medicine Center. If you need further assistance finding our office, don’t hesitate to give us a call so we can help.

Have Questions? - We’ve Got the answers -