Pediatric Dentistry in Miami

Overview of Pediatric Dentistry

The field of pediatric dentistry is based on the prevention and treatment of dental diseases in children. Pediatric dentists specialize in dentistry for kids and are trained to interact with children in ways that help them feel comfortable. A pediatric dentist offers numerous types of treatment, which can include oral health exams, fluoride treatments, cavity repair, treatment for dental injuries, or teaching children how to properly brush and floss at home.

To practice pediatric dentistry, dentists complete between two and three years of additional training, including orthodontic treatment and caring for children with special needs. Pediatric dentists also receive training in the social dynamics of interacting with children.

When Should I Take My Child to the Dentist?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling a pediatric dentist appointment by the time your child has baby teeth coming in. This should usually occur within the first six months of age and no later than your child's first birthday. Since even baby teeth are susceptible to tooth decay, it's important to schedule regular dental visits to maintain your child's healthy smile.

Your Child's Dental Visit: What to Expect

During a typical dental visit, our pediatric dentist in Miami will carefully examine your child's jaw and mouth to check for any problems. The child's teeth will also be examined, and if there are any signs of plaque or tartar, the teeth will be thoroughly cleaned and polished. Depending on the comfort level and age of the child, he or she can sit in the dental chair or on the parent's lap during the examination. Most small children don't require x-rays, although they may be needed to check for tooth decay or other dental problems in older children.

Our Pediatric Dental Services in Miami

Dentistry for children refers to any service designed to maintain oral health. Examples of our pediatric dental services includes:

Teeth cleaning for children: The dentist or hygienist will gently remove any plaque or tartar while also cleaning and polishing the teeth.

Fluoride: Fluoride treatment for children is a safe and painless treatment that prevents cavities and strengthens tooth enamel. It's a topical treatment that the dentist applies to the surface of each tooth.

Dental sealants: Dental sealants for kids reduce the risk of tooth decay by preventing bacteria and food particles from sticking to teeth. During treatment, a thin coating of plastic is applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth.

Fillings: Fillings are a treatment option for cavities and tooth decay in baby teeth and permanent teeth. After carefully removing the decayed part of the tooth, it's repaired with a tooth-colored filling or amalgam filling.

Pediatric crowns: Pediatric crowns are a treatment option used to restore a tooth if there is a very large cavity or if there is too much decay that can't be repaired with a typical filling.

Mouthguards: According to the American Dental Association, pediatric mouthguards should be worn when playing contact sports. The mouthguard is designed to protect the teeth and mouth from injury.

When Do Baby Teeth First Develop?

Teething usually starts around six months of age, although baby teeth can develop any time between four months old and one year old. Most children will develop their two bottom front teeth first, closely followed by their two upper front teeth. By the time children reach 3 years old, they should have received 20 of their primary baby teeth. It's important to not be alarmed if your child's teeth break through differently compared to what's considered average. We encourage you to make an appointment with a pediatric dentist if you have any questions or concerns about your child's teeth.

When Do Baby Teeth Start to Fall Out?

By the time they're six years old, most kids will lose their baby teeth. The pattern of tooth loss usually follows a "first in, first out" pattern, which means that the teeth kids lose first are the teeth that they develop first. Most kids will lose their lower bottom teeth first, which are soon followed by their upper two teeth. Most children will have their adult teeth by the time they're 14 years old. Ready to learn more about kid’s dental care? Get in touch with us today to schedule your appointment.

Why Do Children Get Toothaches?

Children can get toothaches for many reasons, including tooth decay, having food stuck between teeth, pain from emerging teeth, and chipped or cracked teeth. It's important to understand that toothaches can worsen and become potential dental emergencies. For this reason, it's important to visit our kid’s dentist right away. We encourage you to call our office to make your appointment.