At Doctors Lake Family Dental, we believe in building healthy smiles from the very beginning. Backed by 40 years of experience, our early dental care services in Fleming Island, FL, help children develop positive habits and prevent oral health issues before they start.
Led by Drs. Fernando and Adriana Padron—board-certified Prosthodontists with advanced training in restorative and implant dentistry—we provide expert care in a welcoming, family-focused setting. We’re committed to helping your child build the foundation for a healthy, happy smile that lasts a lifetime.
When Should My Child See a Dentist?
According to the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, children should have their first dental visit between six months and one year of age, or within six months of their first tooth erupting. These early visits are essential for identifying potential issues and helping your child feel comfortable in a dental setting.
During your child’s first appointment at Doctors Lake Family Dental, we’ll review your child’s medical and dental history, introduce them to our friendly dental team, and walk them through what to expect in kid-friendly language. We encourage parents to join their child during the visit—this allows you to observe how we interact with your child and gives us the opportunity to explain any findings or recommendations directly.
A typical first visit includes a thorough head and neck exam, evaluation of the teeth and gums, and X-rays only if necessary. If no treatment is needed, we’ll gently clean and apply fluoride to help protect against early tooth decay.
The Importance of Baby Teeth
Although baby teeth are temporary, they serve many important functions. Healthy primary teeth help children chew properly, speak clearly, and hold space in the jaw for the adult teeth that follow. If baby teeth become decayed or infected, it can cause pain, affect overall health, and disrupt the alignment of permanent teeth.
Proper care begins even before the first tooth appears. Gently wiping your baby’s gums with a damp cloth after feedings helps prevent bacteria buildup. Once the first tooth erupts, begin brushing twice a day with water. After age two, you can introduce a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Always supervise brushing to ensure proper technique and that toothpaste is spit out and rinsed.
Preventing Tooth Decay in Children
Tooth decay is one of the most common issues we treat in pediatric patients, but it’s also one of the most preventable. Frequent exposure to sugary liquids—such as milk, formula, or juice—can lead to early childhood cavities, especially when given before bedtime.
To prevent decay:
- Never put your child to bed with a bottle containing anything but water
- Avoid dipping pacifiers in sugar or honey
- Encourage regular brushing and flossing
- Schedule dental checkups every six months
Why Choose Doctors Lake Family Dental for Pediatric Dental Care?
At Doctors Lake Family Dental, your child’s care is led by Drs. Fernando and Adriana Padron, a husband-and-wife team of Prosthodontists with extensive training in complex restorative and implant dentistry. Dr. Fernando Padron completed a prestigious surgical implant fellowship under Dr. Jeffrey Ganeles and is a Diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. Dr. Adriana Padron earned her Prosthodontics degree from the University of Illinois in Chicago and is a Fellow of the American Board of Prosthodontics.
Together, they bring advanced expertise and a compassionate, patient-centered approach to every visit. Alongside Dr. Yakov Shimunov and Dr. Hansen, our team ensures that each child receives gentle, expert care in a welcoming environment.
Trusted Pediatric Dental Care in Fleming Island, FL
Give your child the best possible start to lifelong oral health. Visit Doctors Lake Family Dental in Fleming Island, FL, and discover the difference personalized early dental care can make.
Contact us today at 904-264-6700 to schedule your child’s first appointment. We can’t wait to meet you both!
