Pediatric Dentistry in Homestead, Florida

What's Meant by Pediatric Dentistry?

Children's pediatric dentistry is focused on the age group from infants to adolescents. Pediatric dentistry is a specialized field of general dentistry, and pediatric dentists must complete an additional two to three years of specialized training beyond that required for their general dentistry license. Their specialized training includes hospital practice to gain experience with dental emergencies and special needs patients, enabling them to recognize when the services of a pediatric oral surgeon are needed or those of other pediatric dental specialists.

Is It Better for My Child to Visit a Pediatric Dentist?

Especially if your child is very young, a toddler dentist will have the expertise required to perform dental cleaning for kids and other routine dental procedures with the least amount of angst for your child. Dental cleanings are essential for good oral health, even on primary teeth. In addition, a pediatric dentist can show your child how to floss in a way that makes it fun, and your child will want to floss every day.

When Should My Child Start Going to the Dentist?

Your child should commence dental visits no later than age two. Earlier is better. When you come in for your child's initial visit, one of our pediatric children’s dentists will thoroughly examine your child's teeth and gums. They'll be looking for signs of decay or disease, and then they'll perform a dental cleaning, which may be slightly different than a cleaning administered to an adult. Bacteria and plaque will be gently removed in a manner that's not frightening or uncomfortable for your child. If you reward your child after the appointment with a healthy treat or a favorite outing, they'll learn to associate their dental visits with something pleasant, rather than something to be dreaded. If your child needs a dental appointment, call our office, and we'll be happy to help you.

What Will Happen During My Child's First Dental Visit?

When you bring your child to our office for the first time, we'll need some forms completed unless you've done them in advance. Then, we'll create a treatment plan tailored to your child, and we'll address any issues that your child has. We'll also take x-rays and perform a thorough cleaning. Then, you'll receive an assessment from one of our pediatric periodontics specialists, and they'll make recommendations as necessary for your child's future dental needs. If you have any questions about your child's dental habits, such as teething or thumb-sucking, this is an excellent time to ask them.

Pediatric Dental Anesthesia

Our pediatric dental specialists are trained in a wide variety of methods that help children feel relaxed during dental procedures. While some children with an intense fear of the dentists may react well to laughing gas, some children require more intensive sedation. We offer a variety of safe and effective sedation options at our office, including general anesthesia for child and toddler dental work. Each child is different, so the method of sedation will be determined by the child’s age and specific needs.

Hospital Dental Care with General Anesthesia

Sometimes, intensive dental work must be completed at a hospital to ensure your child’s comfort and safety. When dental work is completed at the hospital, your child will be placed under anesthesia and monitored by an anesthesiologist. Our dentists have experience treating patients with special challenges, including developmental disabilities, chronic medical problems, and other situations. We work closely with pediatricians, oral surgeons, and anesthesiologists to ensure the best possible outcome for your child.

What's the Cost of Pediatric Dental Visit?

The cost of a pediatric dental visit will vary according to the following factors:

• The rates set by a kid’s dentists office
• The level of cleaning needed
• Any additional work required
• Any insurance coverage you have
• Any prescriptions you need

When you call to make an appointment, we can provide you with an estimate of the cost, but we'll need to see your child in order to provide you with the precise amount your visit will cost. If finances are an issue, then ask about our payment options. We accept most major credit cards, most insurance plans, and many dental discount plans. We want your child to have the dental treatments they need, so we'll work with you on payments. Call our Homestead office if you have additional questions.

Where Do I Take My Special Needs Child for Dental Visits?

Dental visits can be intimidating for a small child and especially so if they're a special needs child. However, our pediatric dental specialists are adept at making children feel at ease, whether they're special needs or not. Our dental care for children is among the best in the area, and we strive to maintain our reputation. So, when you call to make your child's appointment, let us know that they're special needs and the accommodations that they'll need, and we'll do everything we can to make their visit as pleasant and stress-free as possible. We want all our special needs patients to have the best, high-quality dental care possible.

If you need dental care for your child, then call Main Street Children's Dentistry and Orthodontics of Homestead at (305) 407-1026 and make an appointment. You can also make an appointment online at your convenience. We're sure you'll appreciate our dedication to our young patients and their good dental health. Our goal is to instill in children a commitment to their good dental health. Call us today. You'll be glad you made the call.