Comfort & Confidence
About Us
South OC Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics offers a coordinated approach to pediatric dental care and orthodontics in Mission Viejo. Our focus is simple: provide the right care at the right time, while helping children feel comfortable and confident at every visit.
A Child-First
Approach to Care
We believe great pediatric dental and orthodontic care should be patient-first, not procedure-first. From a child’s earliest dental visits through orthodontic treatment, our recommendations are based on what supports healthy growth, development, and long-term oral health.
Prevention and guidance before treatment whenever possible
Calm, supportive visits that reduce fear and anxiety
Clear communication with both children and parents
Conservative orthodontic recommendations based on individual needs and timing
Individualized care that supports healthy growth and development
Conservative
Evidence-Based Treatment
Our approach is guided by one question: what is truly necessary for this child? That often means:
Monitoring before treating when appropriate
Preventive care to reduce future problems
Minimally invasive treatment when needed
Planning that considers long-term growth and development
Families often tell us they value the calm environment, the time we take to explain things, and an approach that is never pushy or overwhelming.
Long-term Connection
Care That Grows With Your Family
Many of our patients grow up with us, and that continuity shapes the way we provide care. Seeing the same team at each visit creates familiarity and consistency. Over time, that allows us to understand each patient beyond their chart and provide care that reflects their history, development, and individual needs.
This long-term connection allows for more thoughtful care. Instead of focusing on a single visit, we are able to follow development over time, guide habits as they form, and make decisions with a deeper understanding of each patient’s needs.
Two Specialties
Pediatric & Orthodontic Specialists Working Together
Our pediatric and orthodontic offices are located near each other in Mission Viejo, making it easy to access both specialties when needed.
Before treatment begins, cases are discussed together so both specialists can help determine the right timing and most conservative plan for care. This helps families make confident decisions and often prevents unnecessary treatment.
Not every child needs early orthodontic treatment, and not every concern needs immediate intervention. Having two specialists working together helps us keep recommendations thoughtful and individualized.
Our Specialists
Meet Our Doctors
Dr. John De Lorme
Dr. John De Lorme is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry who completed his pediatric dental residency at Harvard School of Dental Medicine and Boston Children’s Hospital. He is known for creating positive experiences for children and helping families feel comfortable and informed throughout treatment.
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Dr. Sam Wu
Dr. Sam Wu is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry who completed his pediatric dental residency at Harvard School of Dental Medicine and Boston Children’s Hospital. He has a strong passion for community care and leads annual medical and dental mission trips to countries including Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador.
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Dr. Chris Carter
Dr. Chris Carter provides orthodontic care for children, teens, and adults, with a focus on smile aesthetics and overall facial balance. He practiced general dentistry for five years before specializing in orthodontics.
Learn MoreMission Viejo, CA
Dental and Orthodontic Care
Whether your child needs preventive care or early orthodontic guidance, our team is here to provide thoughtful care built around trust, comfort, and long-term health.