Mary M O'Connor

Our practice is dedicated to providing exceptional dental care in a warm and welcoming environment, catering to the unique needs of each patient and their family. We believe that building a strong foundation of oral health starts in early childhood and continues throughout life.

Dr. Mary O'Connor: Your Child's Dental Expert

Dr. Mary O'Connor, affectionately known as Dr. Mary, is a highly qualified and experienced pediatric dentist. Growing up in a large family, she developed a deep empathy for the needs of children and a passion for creating comfortable and positive dental experiences. After earning her Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology from the University of San Diego and her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Loyola University School of Dentistry in Chicago, Dr. Mary pursued specialized training in Pediatric Dentistry, further solidifying her expertise in caring for young smiles.

Since returning to San Diego in 1989, Dr. Mary has been diligently serving the community, first as an associate and then as the proud owner of her practice since 1994. She earned the prestigious Diplomate status from the Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, demonstrating her commitment to upholding the highest standards of care.

Dr. Mary's dedication extends beyond her private practice. She is a valued member of the dental staff at Rady Children's Hospital, serving as the Dental Director for the Anderson Center for Dental Care. Her deep involvement in her profession is also reflected in her active memberships in numerous dental organizations, including the San Diego County Dental Society, the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association, the California Society of Pediatric Dentistry, and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.

Outside of dentistry, Dr. Mary is a loving wife and a dedicated mother to three grown children. She is deeply committed to her community, serving on the boards of several organizations, including Noah Homes, USD College of Arts and Sciences Advisory Board, and the Rest Haven Children's Health Fund. When she's not volunteering or practicing dentistry, Dr. Mary enjoys nurturing her love for gardening, cooking, and participating in a long-standing women's book club.

Our Experienced Office Staff

Our compassionate and skilled office staff is committed to providing a warm and comforting experience for every patient. Our dental assistants are all licensed Registered Dental Assistants (RDAs) and are expertly trained in both front office and chairside duties. We strive to make your child feel at ease and ensure that every aspect of their visit is positive and informative.

Services We Offer

We provide comprehensive dental care for children and adolescents, encompassing a wide range of services tailored to their unique needs. Through gentle techniques and personalized attention, we aim to establish a lifelong love for oral health in each child we serve.

Establishing a Foundation for a Lifetime of Healthy Smiles

We strongly recommend scheduling your child's first dental visit when their first tooth erupts, or no later than their first birthday. This early appointment allows us to:

• Teach parents the proper techniques for brushing and flossing their child's teeth.

• Discuss appropriate feeding habits and address any oral health concerns.

• Assess the child's overall oral development and provide recommendations for dental care products and fluoride treatments.

• Establish a dental home for your child, creating a familiar and comfortable environment for future visits.

Addressing Diverse Needs

We understand that every child is different, and we are dedicated to providing specialized care for children with special needs. In collaboration with parents and caregivers, we strive to create a calm and supportive environment where children feel safe and comfortable receiving dental treatment. When necessary, we utilize our privileges at Rady Children's Hospital to provide safe and effective dental care under general anesthesia.