San Antonio’s Pediatric Dentists

The specialty of Pediatric Dentistry requires an additional 2-3 years training beyond general dentistry in the unique aspects of oral health care of infants, children and adolescents. The specialty of Pediatric Dentistry is regulated by the AAPD, and certified pediatric dentists can be located through their website at aapd.org

There are many children’s books on first dental visits, choose wisely if you want to use this method.

Parents are encouraged not to “make a big deal” out of the visit. Most children suspect something is up if huge rewards and promises are made before the appointment. Also, parents are encouraged to refrain from using words that could cause unnecessary fear or anxiety such as pain, blood, shot, drill, yank, pull, or needle. We are experienced in dealing with childhood anxiety and can explain treatment in a simple and non-threatening manner. For young children anxiety and fear of the unknown is quite normal. Most warm up with repeated appointments and a gentle approach.

Parents, if you have concerns or want all the details, or if you personally have a fear of dentistry, it is best to ask to speak with one of our staff in private.

Dental exams for infants and very young children are best accomplished by having the parent hold the child while facing the doctor sitting knee to knee.  In this manner, the child’s head can be positioned in the dentist’s lap while the parent holds their child’s hands on their tummy. This allows good visualization for both the parent and the dentist. A similar technique can be used at home to hold the child for brushing and flossing.

During the examination, we will record your child’s medical and dental history, complete an oral examination, provide tooth charting and discuss any finding with you. Older cooperative children may also get a cleaning, and we may take diagnostic x-rays as part of the visit. It is important to keep first visits positive, to provide a good framework for future appointments.

• Crown Fractures: Involve fractures of the enamel and/or dentin. These may involve exposure of the nerve (pulp).
• Root Fractures: A fracture of the root portion of the tooth below the gum line.
• Concussion Injuries: Trauma that arises when a tooth is hit or bumped, although the tooth does not get loose. Many of these type of injuries require long term follow-up as the damage from the injury can slowly progress.
• Subluxation Injuries: Trauma that occurs when a tooth is injured that makes the tooth loose, but without displacement.
• Intrusion Injuries: The tooth is pushed up into the socket and may be completely buried.
• Extrusion Injuries: The tooth is partially pulled out of the socket. These type of injuries require splinting.
•Avulsions: The tooth is completely knocked out of the socket. These injuries may require replacement and splinting.

We see many types of injuries that involve the mouth and teeth. If these occur during normal office hours, we will do our best to work you into our schedule in a timely manner. Some children will need to be seen in the Emergency Room prior to the dental office, loss of consciousness, dizziness, altered alertness, balance, hearing or visual difficulties are present, as these conditions require immediate medical attention.