FAQs

When should my child first visit the dentist?
Your child should visit the dentist by their first birthday or within six months of the first tooth appearing. Early visits help us monitor development, prevent cavities, and guide parents on brushing, nutrition, and healthy habits at home. At Little Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we make these first visits gentle and welcoming so your child can begin building a lifetime of positive dental experiences.
Most children should see the dentist every six months for preventive care. Regular visits allow us to clean teeth, monitor growth, reinforce healthy routines, and detect problems early. Our personalized approach ensures each child receives care tailored to their age, development, and comfort level.
Your child’s first visit is designed to be calm, educational, and fun. You’ll tour our office, meet the doctor, and learn about your child’s dental development and home care routine. We’ll gently examine the teeth and gums, and if your child is ready, we may complete a light cleaning or fluoride treatment. Our goal is to help your child feel safe while giving parents helpful guidance to support lifelong oral health.
Yes. We accept most major dental insurance plans used by families in the St. Louis region. Because we work with many providers, the best way to confirm coverage is to call our office and we will verify your benefits for you. For families without insurance, our Smile Savers Plan offers an affordable way to receive quality pediatric dental care, and we also accept CareCredit for flexible financing options.
Many children feel anxious about dental visits, and helping them feel comfortable is one of our top priorities. At Little Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we focus on transforming fear into fun with a calm, supportive approach, personalized treatment, and kid-friendly amenities like TVs, streaming services, toys, and fun rewards. We move at your child’s pace and build trust so visits become positive experiences.
If your child has a toothache, swelling, broken tooth, or dental injury, contact our office right away so we can guide you and arrange prompt care. Quick treatment helps relieve discomfort and prevent complications. If there is serious injury, heavy bleeding, or facial trauma, seek medical care first, then follow up with our dental team as soon as possible.