Pediatric Dentistry in Tallahassee, FL

At the office of Brittney K. Craig, DMD, the health, comfort, and development of your child’s smile are central to everything we do. Our approach is focused on preventing problems before they start, guiding families through each stage of dental growth, and helping children build confident, healthy habits that last into adulthood.

Brittney K. Craig, DMD | Fluoride Treatment, Dental Cleanings and Pediatric Dentistry

A Gentle Beginning: Preventive Care That Fits a Child’s Life

Healthy teeth begin with predictable, simple routines. We emphasize an age-appropriate plan of care that starts with early visits and continues with regular checkups. Those visits are an opportunity to assess development, answer questions, and introduce positive experiences so dental care feels familiar — not frightening.

Preventive services are tailored to each child’s needs. Along with visual exams, we use modern digital imaging selectively to evaluate growth and find hidden concerns early. When appropriate, we recommend protective measures such as fluoride treatments and sealants to reduce the chance of cavities on vulnerable surfaces.

Our team works to make each appointment efficient, clear, and child-centered. We explain procedures in straightforward terms, involve parents in decisions, and create comfortable visits that build trust. A preventive mindset saves time and stress later, and it supports lifelong oral health.

Brittney K. Craig, DMD | TMJ Disorders, Emergency Treatment and Dental Cleanings

What to Expect at Your Child’s First Dental Visit

The first appointment is mostly educational. We perform a gentle exam of the teeth, gums, bite, and oral tissues while answering your questions about teething, cleanings, and home care. For babies and toddlers, a short, calm visit lays the groundwork for routine care and establishes the dental office as a safe place.

During that first visit we’ll review your child’s medical and dental history, show you the best ways to clean tiny teeth, and discuss habits like pacifier use or thumb sucking. We’ll also create a follow-up plan so you know when to return and what to watch for as your child grows.

If concerns require further attention, we’ll explain options clearly and suggest the most conservative, effective measures. Our goal is always to resolve issues early, minimize discomfort, and keep treatment straightforward whenever possible.

Why Regular Checkups Make a Difference

Frequent, scheduled visits allow the dental team to monitor changes in bite, jaw growth, and the eruption pattern of adult teeth. Many developing problems are easier to treat when we catch them early — from small cavities that can be repaired quickly to alignment issues that benefit from timely interventions.

At routine cleanings we remove plaque and hard-to-reach buildup and provide instruction tailored to your child’s age and dexterity. We also discuss diet and habits that influence oral health, helping families make small adjustments that have a big impact over time.

When necessary, targeted digital radiographs help reveal what can’t be seen with the naked eye: early decay between teeth, the position of unerupted teeth, or the health of jaw bone. These images are used judiciously to inform safe, effective care.

Understanding Childhood Cavities and How to Prevent Them

Tooth decay remains a common childhood condition, but most cases are preventable. Cavities form when sugars and starches interact with plaque bacteria to produce acids that attack enamel. Regular brushing, appropriate fluoride use, and limiting frequent sugary snacks help reduce that risk.

In-office protections such as topical fluoride and dental sealants offer an extra layer of defense for teeth that are difficult to keep clean, especially the chewing surfaces of molars. These painless treatments are commonly recommended when the permanent molars and premolars come in.

Everyday Habits That Support Strong Teeth

Begin a dental partnership early — around the first birthday or when the first tooth appears.
Clean baby teeth gently with a washcloth or infant brush, and transition to a soft-bristled toothbrush as more teeth emerge.
Avoid putting a child to bed with a bottle of milk or juice; if a bottle is needed, use only water at bedtime.
Schedule routine checkups and cleanings to catch issues early and reinforce good habits.
Lead by example with brushing and flossing routines and make oral care a regular part of daily life.
Choose water over sugary drinks and offer nutritious snacks that support dental and overall health.
Address pacifier or thumb-sucking habits with gentle guidance so they stop before they affect alignment.
Use a properly fitted mouthguard for organized or recreational sports to protect teeth and soft tissues.

Brittney K. Craig, DMD | Preventative Program, Dental Cleanings and Invisalign reg

First Smiles: Caring for Infants and Toddlers

Primary teeth serve important roles in eating, speech, and guiding permanent teeth into place. Even before a full set has erupted, attentive home care and early dental visits give children the best chance for healthy development.

Teething can be uncomfortable, but simple measures — a cool teething ring, gentle gum massage, or a clean, cold spoon — often provide relief. If you have concerns about prolonged fever, extreme fussiness, or unusual swelling, contact your dental provider for advice.

Parents should be vigilant about early decay. “Baby bottle” or nursing-related cavities can progress quickly, so limiting prolonged exposure to sugary liquids and establishing cleaning routines are key preventive steps.

Helping Older Children and Teens Keep Smiles on Track

As children grow, their dental needs change. We monitor facial growth, jaw development, and the alignment of permanent teeth so that any orthodontic concerns are identified at the appropriate time. Early observation allows families to consider options and plan interventions when they are most effective.

Adolescence brings new challenges — braces, sports participation, and dietary changes — that affect oral hygiene. We provide practical guidance on cleaning around appliances, choosing protective mouthguards, and balancing nutrition to support both dental health and overall growth.

When surgical or restorative treatments are indicated, we coordinate care with specialists and explain each step so families can make informed decisions. Our focus remains on conservative, evidence-based care that preserves function and encourages healthy habits for life.

Taking the Next Step for Your Child’s Oral Health

Good pediatric dental care is a partnership between the dental team, parents, and the child. By combining regular preventive visits, thoughtful home routines, and timely interventions, you can help your child maintain a healthy, confident smile at every stage of growth.

If you’d like to learn more about how we care for young patients or to discuss specific concerns, please contact us for more information. We welcome the opportunity to answer questions and help your family plan for lasting oral health with care from Brittney K. Craig, DMD.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is pediatric dentistry and how does it differ from general dentistry?

Pediatric dentistry focuses on the oral health needs of infants, children and adolescents, including those with special health care needs. It emphasizes growth and development, preventive strategies and age‑appropriate communication to support positive experiences and lifelong habits. Pediatric dentists and family dentists both provide essential care, but pediatric-focused services prioritize early intervention and behavioral guidance tailored to young patients.

Care plans in pediatric dentistry are designed around developmental stages and common childhood conditions such as early childhood caries, teething issues and eruption patterns. Providers monitor facial growth and bite development so problems can be identified and addressed when treatment is most effective. This specialized approach helps reduce the need for more extensive treatment later and encourages healthy oral development.

When should my child have their first dental visit?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and many dental professionals recommend a child’s first visit by their first birthday or within six months of the first tooth erupting. Early visits are brief and educational, helping parents learn about cleaning, feeding practices and risk factors for decay while introducing the child to the dental office environment. These early appointments establish a dental home and make future visits more comfortable for both child and family.

Starting early also allows the dental team to identify concerns such as enamel defects, early decay or habits that could affect development. Timely guidance on pacifier use, thumb sucking and diet can prevent problems before they start. Regular recall visits are scheduled based on individual needs and risk factors to maintain prevention and monitoring.

What should I expect at my child’s first dental appointment?

The first appointment is largely an evaluation and education visit where the dentist performs a gentle exam of the teeth, gums, bite and oral tissues. The team will review medical and dental history, demonstrate cleaning techniques for tiny teeth and answer questions about teething, feeding and home care. Visits for babies and toddlers are kept short and calm to create a positive foundation for ongoing care.

If any concerns are detected the dentist will explain options clearly and recommend the most conservative measures appropriate for the child’s age. Preventive measures such as fluoride guidance or sealants may be discussed when relevant. Parents are invited to participate in decisions so they feel informed and confident in the recommended plan.

How can parents prevent cavities and promote healthy oral habits at home?

Daily brushing with a soft toothbrush and age‑appropriate fluoride toothpaste, limiting sugary snacks and drinks, and supervising flossing when teeth contact are core habits that reduce cavity risk. Avoid putting a child to bed with bottles or sippy cups containing anything other than water, and encourage healthy snacks such as vegetables, fruits and dairy to support enamel strength. Modeling good oral hygiene and making routines consistent helps children adopt lifelong habits.

Regular dental checkups reinforce home care and allow the dental team to provide targeted instruction based on a child’s dexterity and development. The dentist can advise on fluoride use, oral hygiene tools and timing for flossing or powered toothbrushes as needed. Small daily choices add up and are one of the most effective defenses against early decay.

Are fluoride treatments and dental sealants safe and beneficial for children?

Topical fluoride and dental sealants are evidence‑based preventive treatments commonly recommended for children to reduce the risk of cavities. Fluoride strengthens enamel and helps remineralize early areas of decay, while sealants create a protective barrier on the chewing surfaces of molars where food and bacteria tend to collect. Both treatments are quick, painless and applied in the dental chair as part of routine preventive care when appropriate.

Dental teams use individualized risk assessments to determine timing and frequency of fluoride varnish and sealant application. Parents are informed about the benefits and any aftercare instructions so they can make informed decisions for their child. These measures are especially valuable for children with limited ability to clean molar grooves thoroughly on their own.

How should I care for my infant’s teeth and manage teething discomfort?

Before teeth erupt, gently wipe gums with a clean, damp cloth after feedings to remove bacteria and sugars. Once teeth appear, begin brushing twice daily with a soft infant toothbrush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste, and advance to a pea‑sized amount as the child grows. Limiting sugary liquids and avoiding prolonged bottle or breastfeeding at night helps prevent nursing‑related decay.

Teething discomfort is common and often eased by a cool teething ring, gentle gum massage or a clean, cool spoon. If symptoms include high fever, persistent fussiness or swelling that concerns you, contact the dental office or your pediatrician for guidance. The dental team can offer specific advice and reassurance tailored to your child’s needs.

When should I be concerned about my child’s tooth alignment or jaw development?

Parents should mention any concerns about crowded teeth, uneven bite, prolonged thumb sucking or asymmetrical jaw growth during routine visits so the dental team can monitor development. Many alignment issues are easier to address when detected early, and observation allows the dentist to determine the optimal timing for referral to an orthodontist if needed. Regular checkups include evaluation of eruption patterns and facial growth to identify potential concerns.

If early signs such as difficulty chewing, speech changes, or dental trauma appear, the dentist may recommend interceptive measures, habit management or coordination with specialists. Timely communication between families and the dental team supports conservative, effective care. The goal is to guide growth in ways that reduce the need for more invasive treatments later.

What types of dental imaging are used for children and are they safe?

When diagnostic images are necessary, pediatric dentists use modern digital radiographs that expose children to very low doses of radiation and provide clear, immediate images for accurate care. Imaging is taken only when justified by clinical findings and when it will influence diagnosis or treatment, following the principle of using the minimum radiation necessary. Lead aprons and proper positioning further reduce exposure and protect growing tissues.

Digital radiographs are valuable for detecting early decay between teeth, evaluating the position of unerupted teeth and assessing jaw development. Your dental team will explain the reason for any images and answer questions about safety so you understand the benefits and precautions. Routine care typically requires few or no images for low‑risk children, and imaging schedules are individualized.

How do dentists help children who are anxious or fearful about dental visits?

Pediatric dental teams use developmentally appropriate communication, positive reinforcement and gradual exposure to help children feel more comfortable during appointments. Techniques such as tell‑show‑do, distraction, modeling and providing choices empower children and reduce fear while keeping care safe and cooperative. Parents are encouraged to remain calm and supportive so the child associates dental visits with trust rather than anxiety.

For children with strong fear, special needs or very young age, the dentist may recommend additional behavior guidance strategies or collaborate with specialists to determine the safest approach to treatment. The focus is always on minimal, compassionate interventions that prioritize a positive experience and the child’s well‑being. Creating a predictable, friendly environment helps many families build lasting, confident dental habits.

What should parents do in a pediatric dental emergency?

For injuries such as a knocked‑out tooth, fractured tooth or severe pain, contact the dental office promptly so the team can provide timely advice and arrange urgent care when necessary. Immediate steps include locating a displaced tooth and keeping it moist, rinsing a fractured area gently if needed and controlling bleeding with clean gauze or a cloth. Quick action can improve outcomes for traumatic injuries and reduce the risk of complications.

The dental office will assess the child’s condition, recommend next steps and coordinate care with specialists when required to restore function and comfort. For nontraumatic concerns such as sudden swelling or persistent fever, seek prompt professional evaluation to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. Families in Tallahassee can call the office of Brittney K. Craig, DMD to discuss urgent concerns and receive guidance tailored to their child’s situation.