Pediatric Dentistry in Houston

At Dr. Kamila Holistic Dental and Wellness Center, we provide compassionate, patient-centered care for kids of all ages in a warm, and engaging environment.

We serve infants through teens for:

• •  Preventive cleanings, sealants, x-rays
  •  Painless fillings and extractions
  •  Space maintainers and pulpotomies
  •  Injury treatment and crowns
  •  Orthodontic and speech assessments
  •  Tongue and lip tie revisions
  •  Emergency dentistry

And so if you are looking for the best pediatric dental care in Houston, do not hesitate to contact us today to schedule a consultation!

Why Should my Child First see a Pediatric Dentists?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that children have their first dentist visit by age 1. Seeing a specialist in pediatric dentistry in Houston early allows them to monitor emerging teeth and identify any potential problems with oral health and development. Early visits also help children become comfortable with dental care from a young age.

Ideally, a child should see a pediatric dentist within 6 months of their first tooth erupting and no later than their first birthday. Pediatric dentists are specialists trained to care for babies, children, and adolescents. They know how to make visits fun, educational, and stress-free for kids.

What Kind of Services do Pediatric Dentist Provide?

Pediatric dentists provide comprehensive oral health care for children from infancy through the teen years. Their Houston pediatric dentist Houston services include:

•  Routine cleanings and exams to monitor growth and development
•  Fluoride treatments to strengthen enamel
•  Sealants to protect molars from decay
•  Early assessment for orthodontics
•  Treatment of cavities and tooth defects
•  Care for dental injuries and emergencies
•  Education for proper brushing and flossing
•  Habit counseling (thumb sucking, pacifiers)
•  Care for special needs children
•  Houston pediatric dentistry sedation for anxious kids

Pediatric dentists focus on prevention and aim to establish a dental home for children. They also coordinate any referrals needed to other specialists like orthodontists.

How are Houston Pediatric Dentistry Visits Different from Regular Dentistry?

There are a few key differences between pediatric and regular dentistry:

•  Child-focused setting – The office is kid-friendly with games, books, movies, and decor to make children comfortable.
•  Special equipment – Pediatric dentists have small dental tools, protective gear, and chairs made for children.
•  Pediatric training – Pediatric dentists complete 2-3 years of specialized residency after dental school. They learn child psychology, development, and advanced treatment techniques.
•  Family involvement – Pediatric dentists encourage parents to stay with children during visits and participate in care.
•  Preventive focus – There is a strong emphasis on prevention through routine care. Pediatric dentists aim to identify problems early.
•  Behavior guidance – Pediatric dentists are trained to ease anxiety, gain cooperation, and shape positive dental attitudes in children.
•  Management of care – Pediatric dentists coordinate any referrals children need to dental specialists.

What Education and Training do Pediatric Dentists Have?

Pediatric dentists complete at least seven years of higher education and residency training:

•  4 years – Bachelor’s degree at an accredited university. Required prerequisite courses generally include biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, and math.
•  4 years – Dental school resulting in a DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) or DMD (Doctor of Medical Dentistry) degree. During this time, students treat children in dental school clinics.
•  2-3 years – Pediatric dental residency. This intensive training refines skills and knowledge in comprehensive pediatric oral health and advanced treatment techniques.

Pediatric dentists must pass written and clinical exams for state licensure. They may also pursue certification from the respective board in charge of Houston pediatric dentistry, and this may end up requiring more advanced education, testing, and continued learning.

When Should my Child Stop Seeing a Pediatric Dentist?

Children should see a specialist in kid dentistry in Houston until age 18. However, some children can transition between ages 16-18, depending on their maturity level and need for specialized dental care.

Here are some factors parents should consider when transitioning from Houston pediatric dentistry to regular dentistry:

•  Emotional maturity and ability to independently care for oral health
•  Comprehension of the importance of routine dental care
•  Need for sedation dentistry or treatment of facial growth issues
•  Ability to communicate well with new providers
•  Preference for pediatric vs adult setting
•  Driving ability and schedule as a high school student

The transition may be easier if the general dentist in Houston has pediatric expertise or if the specialist in pediatric dentistry in Houston also treats adult patients. Discuss options with your dentists.

What if my Child has Anxiety About Going to the Dentist?

It’s very normal for children to feel anxious about going to the dentist. Pediatric dentists receive special training to help anxious children feel safe and comfortable. They use various behavior guidance techniques like:

•  Tell, show, do – Thoroughly explain procedures in simple words then demonstrate on a model before performing them.
•  Allowing parents in the exam room.
•  Praise and distraction.
•  Special bonding with the child to build trust.
•  Relaxation techniques like deep breathing.
•  Clear step-by-step communication.
•  Desensitization at each visit to accommodate a child’s tolerance.

If a child remains very anxious, pediatric dentists can provide Houston pediatric dentistry sedation services. This involves using medication to help children relax and feel sleepy during procedures. It allows specialists in children dentistry in Houston pediatric dentists to safely perform necessary dental work while minimizing trauma and stress.

What if my Child need Significant Dental Work?

Sometimes children need extensive dental treatment like multiple cavities filled, pulp therapy on baby teeth, or tooth extractions. Pediatric dentists are highly trained to provide this care safely and effectively even for very young patients.

For longer or more involved procedures, your pediatric dentist may recommend using sedation dentistry. This means giving medication to help your child relax and feel drowsy during the procedure. Sedation allows Houston children dentisty experts to perform needed dental work without causing emotional trauma.

There are different levels of sedation ranging from mild anti-anxiety medications to general anesthesia. Your pediatric dentist will discuss options and recommend the safest, most appropriate method based on your child’s overall health, level of anxiety, and extent of treatment needed. The goal is to deliver optimal care with minimal stress.

Does my Child Need to have their Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Wisdom teeth removal is one of the more common procedures in pediatric dentistry in Houston. Most people have their wisdom teeth removed at some point for various reasons:

•  Impaction – Wisdom teeth become impacted when there is not enough room for them to properly emerge. Food and bacteria can get trapped under partially erupted teeth.
•  Overcrowding – Wisdom teeth may exacerbate crowding and misalignment. Their removal can help improve orthodontic issues.
•  Cavities – The shape and location of wisdom teeth make them prone to decay.
•  Gum disease – Wisdom teeth are difficult to clean and can lead to gum irritation and periodontal problems.
•  Cysts or tumors – Abnormal cell growth associated with impacted wisdom teeth may need to be removed.

Talk to your pediatric dentist about the ideal timing for your child’s wisdom teeth removal based on their mouth development, orthodontic needs, and risk factors. Early removal is sometimes recommended to avoid complications from impaction.

What is Pulpotomy and When it is Necessary for the Children?

A pulpotomy is a common procedure pediatric dentists do to save badly decayed baby teeth. It involves removing infected pulp and then filling the empty pulp chamber and canal.

Reasons for pulpotomy:

• •  Deep decay – Tooth decay reaches the pulp because it is left untreated. The infected or inflamed pulp must be removed.
  •  Trauma – Injury to a baby tooth can expose the pulp. A pulpotomy is done to prevent infection.
  •  Cracked tooth – Cracks extending into the pulp require a pulpotomy to maintain the tooth temporarily.

The goal of a pulpotomy is to save the baby’s tooth until the permanent tooth emerges. It prevents premature loss of baby teeth which can affect proper spacing and eruption of permanent teeth. A stainless steel crown is often placed over the tooth to protect it after pulpotomy.

How do you know If Your Child Needs Early Orthodontic Care?

It is important to have children evaluated by age 7 to spot any emerging orthodontic issues. A pediatric dentist can identify problems and determine the need for early treatment.

Some signs a child may benefit from early orthodontics:

•  Crossbite – Upper and lower teeth do not meet properly.
•  Underbite – Lower teeth sit in front of upper teeth when biting.
•  Overbite – Excessive overlap of the upper teeth over the lower.
•  Crowding – Teeth come in crooked due to lack of space.
•  Spacing – Abnormal gaps between teeth.
•  Jaw misalignment – Upper and lower jaw growth problems.
•  Impacted teeth – Teeth unable to properly erupt.
•  Bad bites – Abnormal wear of teeth interfering with function.

Early treatment can correct many orthodontic issues before adolescence through subtle guidance of jaw growth and tooth movement. This also prevents more extensive treatment later like the need for premature installation of a dental implant in Houston TX.

What is the Best Tooth Brush For the Children?

Pediatric dentists recommend children use soft-bristled toothbrushes with heads small enough to maneuver well in their mouths.

For children under 3, use a rice-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste. Ages 3-6 can use a pea-sized amount. Ensure children spit excess paste rather than swallow.

Until age 8, children lack the dexterity to brush properly and will need help or supervision from parents. Avoid hard bristled toothbrushes which can damage gums. Electric toothbrushes are not necessary but can make brushing more fun.

Replace toothbrushes every 3-4 months as bristles wear out. Have the pediatric dentist evaluate the brushing technique and suggest tips for improvement. Proper technique is key for oral health.

How Can I make Brushing Fun for my Children?

Here are some tips to make daily brushing engaging for kids:

•  Allow them to pick out their toothbrush together – picking a color or character they like can get them excited to use it.
•  Use an egg timer for 2 minutes of brushing.
•  Play a favorite song for the duration of brushing.
•  Pretend to be dentists and take turns brushing each other’s teeth.
•  Turn it into a game – have them brush different teeth/areas based on your commands.
•  Actively brush alongside them to model good technique.
•  Offer rewards like stickers on a brushing chart for completing brushing.
•  Download fun brushing apps that use characters or games to motivate kids to keep brushing.
•  Make silly faces and jokes in the mirror together while brushing.
•  Assign teeth, or sections of teeth, different names and take turns ‘brushing’ them.

What Causes Cavities in Children and How Can I Prevent them?

Cavities in children are caused by oral bacteria that feed on sugary foods and produce acids that damage tooth enamel. Kids are prone to cavities due to habits like:

• •  Frequent snacking on sweets and sippable sugary drinks
  •  Not brushing adequately or frequently enough
  •  Going to bed with milk or juices that coat teeth in sugars
  •  Mouth breathing that reduces saliva flow

Parents can help prevent cavities through:

•  Reducing sugary food intake and limiting to mealtimes only
•  Brushing twice daily – morning and before bed
•  Introducing daily flossing when teeth contact between ages 6-8
•  Providing fluoride – fluoridated toothpaste and tap water.
•  Sealants to protect molars
•  Regular dental cleanings and monitoring for early signs of decay

Your pediatric dentist can help you implement preventive habits and may apply sealants or fluoride treatments to protect your child’s teeth from decay.

What Food and Drinks Should I limit to Prevent Cavities?

Pediatric dentists recommend limiting sugary foods and sticky foods that cling to teeth as both feed the bacteria that cause cavities.

•  Soda and other sugar-sweetened beverages
•  Candy and other sweets
•  Cookies, cakes, pie, donuts
•  Dried fruit and fruit snacks
•  Sugary breakfast cereals
•  Crackers and chips
•  Bread and pasta
•  Milk and yogurt (choose sugar-free)
•  Sugary coffee and tea drinks

Offer water, 100% juices, cheese, nuts, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grain options instead. If sweets are allowed, consume them with meals and brush them afterwards. Limiting snacks helps too. Your pediatric dentist can provide detailed nutritional counseling to help reduce your child’s cavity risk.

Do Cavities Always Require Filling? Can they be Reversed?

In the early stages, pediatric dentists can help remineralize small areas of demineralization before cavities form. Fluoride, sealants, and medicinal treatments can help strengthen weakened enamel and reverse this process if caught early through routine exams.

Once a cavity develops, the decayed section of the tooth must be removed and restored with a filling. Amalgam or composite fillings allow teeth to function normally after cavity removal.

For very young children or minimal decay, the pediatric dentist may be able to use a technique called silver diamine fluoride. This can stop small cavities from getting bigger, so they either don’t need a filling, or else need a much smaller one.

Regular dental visits for prevention and early detection are key to avoiding larger fillings and complex treatments.

What age can most children Tolerate Fillings Without Sedation?

The age a child can successfully get a filling without sedation varies based on their maturity level, health status, and extent of decay. Here are some general guidelines:

Age 2-4 – General anesthesia in the hospital is often required for multiple or deep fillings to manage pain and prevent trauma.

Age 5-7 – Nitrous oxide sedation in the dental office can help children remain relaxed and calm for short, simple procedures.

Age 8+ – Many children are able to tolerate basic local anesthesia (numbing) and cooperate for straightforward fillings without additional sedation.

However, some children require more advanced behavior guidance at older ages as well. It depends on their level of dental anxiety, gag reflex, medical needs, and how extensive the fillings are. The pediatric dental team will evaluate your child’s case individually to determine the safest options.

Can Children Grind Their Teeth? What Cause This?

Pediatric dentists report up to 15-38% of children grind their teeth at night, known as bruxism. Possible causes include:

•  Stress and anxiety
•  Sleep disorders like apnea
•  Allergies causing congestion and trouble breathing through the nose
•  Growth spurts where teeth do not fit jaws properly
•  Side effects of some medications

Mild teeth grinding may require no treatment in children. But excessive grinding can damage teeth and jaw joints. Symptoms like face, jaw, or dental pain should be evaluated. The dentist can fit children for a custom night guard to protect the teeth during sleep. Stress reduction, airway treatment, or medication changes may be recommended.

When Will my Child Start Loosing their Baby Teeth?

Children begin losing their baby teeth around age 6. The first teeth to go are typically the lower central incisors. However, the age range of when teeth fall out is quite large. Pediatric dentists consider it normal for loss of the first baby tooth as early as 4 or as late as 7.

Baby teeth generally fall out in the same order they came in. The top and bottom front teeth loosen first. Then molars in the back are gradually replaced between ages 9-12. By age 13, all baby teeth should be replaced by permanent ones.

If children still have primary teeth past age 13 with no permanent teeth underneath, see your pediatric dentist. Primary teeth that fail to fall out can cause problems with the alignment of permanent teeth or cephalometric facial growth.

What Should I do If a Baby Tooth Gets Knocked Out?

Losing a baby tooth prematurely due to injury is fairly common. Here are tips from pediatric dentists if your child knocks out a baby tooth:

•  Have your child bite down on gauze to stop any bleeding
•  Rinse out the mouth gently with water if needed
•  See a dentist that day if possible, bringing the tooth
•  Do NOT try to push the tooth back into the socket

The dentist will examine for any trauma to the gums and underlying permanent tooth buds. Though baby teeth will fall out on their own, extracting a loosened tooth promptly is recommended. Leaving it may allow bacteria to enter and pose an infection risk. Proper assessment is key.

How do I Get my Child to Floss Regularly?

Here are tips to establish daily flossing habits in children:

•  Make it a routine – floss at the same time each day, like just before bedtime.
•  Use kid flossers or electric flossers to make it easier and more fun.
•  Floss together – take turns flossing each other’s teeth.
•  Use an app with a built-in flossing timer and rewards.
•  Allow them to pick out fun flosses in their favorite colors and flavors
•  Explain that even superheroes and princesses need to floss!

Start by flossing just a few of their teeth and work up to a full flossing session. Give high fives and praise when they cooperate well to positively reinforce the habit.

How Can I make my Child’s Diet Less Cariogenic?

A cariogenic diet is one that puts children at high risk for tooth decay and cavities due to frequent consumption of sugary and sticky foods. Here are some tips to make your child’s diet less cavity-causing:

•  Provide healthy snacks like cheeses, yogurt, vegetables, nuts, and lean proteins instead of sweets.
•  Limit juice and naturally sugary drinks like chocolate milk. Have children drink mostly water.
•  Avoid dried fruits and fruit snacks which are very sticky. Choose fresh fruit more often.
•  Reduce snacking frequency to avoid constant acid attacks on teeth.
•  Avoid hidden sugars like those in condiments, dressings, sauces, and baked goods.
•  Read nutrition labels and choose foods with less than 2g added or total sugars.
•  Limit carbohydrate refined grains which can contribute to cavity-causing bacteria.

Why Choose Dr. Kamila for Houston Pediatric Dentistry?

•  Specialty Training – All our dentists have completed specialty training and have board certifications for Houston pediatric dentistry.
•  Holistic Approach – Treatments focus on the whole child using minimally invasive techniques.
•  Prevention Minded – Early education establishes healthy habits and avoids extensive treatment later.
•  Pediatric Specialists – The skilled team has advanced education in caring for children.
•  Modern Technology – Digital X-rays, intraoral cameras, and advanced tools minimize discomfort.
•  Relaxing Office – Aquariums, movies, games, and toys create a stress-free experience.
•  Sedation Options – A full range of sedation allows safe delivery of all care.
•  Emergency Access – Extended hours and urgent walk-ins provide timely solutions.