Question 1

At what age should my child start seeing a pediatric dentist?

Accepted Answer

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children have their first dental visit by age one or within six months after their first tooth appears. These early visits are incredibly important for several reasons—they allow us to examine your baby's oral development, check for early signs of tooth decay, and provide guidance on proper oral care for infants and toddlers. We also discuss important topics like thumb-sucking, pacifier use, teething, and proper nutrition for healthy tooth development. Early dental visits help your child become familiar with our office and team, establishing a dental home where they feel comfortable and safe. Starting dental care early sets the stage for a lifetime of positive dental experiences and healthy oral habits.

Question 2

What makes a pediatric dentist different from a general dentist?

Accepted Answer

Pediatric dentists complete an additional two to three years of specialized training beyond dental school, focusing exclusively on the oral health needs of infants, children, and adolescents, including those with special healthcare needs. This advanced training covers child psychology, growth and development, behavior management techniques, and the unique dental needs of growing children.

Our office is specifically designed for children, with kid-friendly décor, equipment sized appropriately for small patients, and a team trained in communicating with children at every developmental stage.

We understand how to make dental visits fun and educational rather than scary, and we’re experts at managing children who may be anxious, fearful, or uncooperative.

We also specialize in preventive care and early intervention, catching and addressing issues before they become serious problems.

Question 3

How can I prepare my child for their first dental visit?

Accepted Answer

Preparing your child for their dental visit can make a significant difference in how they experience their appointment. Start by talking positively about the dentist in the days leading up to the visit, using simple, age-appropriate language. Avoid using words like "pain," "hurt," or "shot," and instead focus on how the dentist will "count their teeth" and "make their smile sparkle." Read children's books about visiting the dentist, which can help familiarize them with what to expect. Avoid bribing your child or making promises about what will or won't happen—let our team guide the appointment. On the day of the visit, stay calm and positive, as children pick up on parental anxiety. Bring your child's favorite comfort item if it helps them feel secure. During the appointment, we encourage parents to remain positive and let our trained staff lead the interaction with your child, as we're experienced in making dental visits fun and stress-free.

Question 4

Do you offer sedation options for nervous children or complex procedures?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we understand that some children experience dental anxiety or require complex dental work that may be challenging for them to tolerate while fully awake. We offer several safe and effective sedation options tailored to your child’s needs, age, and the procedure being performed.

Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is a mild sedative that helps children relax while remaining awake and responsive—it wears off quickly after the appointment. For children who need deeper sedation, we offer oral conscious sedation, which involves medication taken before the appointment to help your child feel drowsy and relaxed.

For extensive dental work or children with severe anxiety or special needs, we can arrange general anesthesia in a hospital or surgical center setting. We’ll thoroughly discuss all sedation options, risks, and benefits with you to determine the best approach for your child’s specific situation.

Question 5

What should I do if my child knocks out a permanent tooth?

Accepted Answer

A knocked-out permanent tooth is a true dental emergency that requires immediate action. Time is critical—if handled correctly within 30 minutes to an hour, there's a good chance the tooth can be successfully replanted. First, find the tooth and handle it only by the crown (the white part), never touching the root. If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it with milk or saline solution—never scrub it or use soap or tap water. If your child is old enough and calm enough, try to place the tooth back in its socket and have them gently bite down on clean gauze to hold it in place. If this isn't possible, place the tooth in a container of cold milk, saliva, or a tooth preservation solution and bring it with you immediately. Contact our office right away—we'll see your child as an emergency appointment. Apply a cold compress to the face to reduce swelling and control any bleeding with clean gauze. For baby teeth that are knocked out, do not attempt to replant them, but contact us so we can evaluate your child and ensure no fragments remain.

Children’s Dentist Serving Miami River, FL

Bright Smiles Miami

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Miami River Area Pediatric Dentist Practice

At what age should my child start seeing a pediatric dentist?

What makes a pediatric dentist different from a general dentist?

How can I prepare my child for their first dental visit?

Do you offer sedation options for nervous children or complex procedures?

What should I do if my child knocks out a permanent tooth?

About Miami River, FL