Pediatric Dentist

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling your child's first dental visit as soon as their first tooth appears, usually around 12 months old. Early visits establish a positive relationship with dental care and allow us to catch any early problems. If your child is older and hasn't had a dental visit yet, don't worry—we work with kids of all ages and help nervous children feel comfortable.

A typical pediatric dental exam and cleaning at Nations Dental Studio costs $75–$125 without insurance. Most dental insurance plans cover preventive pediatric care at 100% with no copay or deductible, making visits free for many families. We accept Medicaid, which covers pediatric dental care for eligible children. We also offer financing options through Sunbit and accept FSA/HSA payments. We'll verify your insurance before your visit and provide transparent pricing upfront.

Most dental insurance plans cover pediatric preventive care (cleanings, exams, and X-rays) at 100% for children. Medicaid typically covers pediatric dental care for eligible children, including cleanings, exams, and necessary treatments like fillings. Our team will verify your child's coverage and explain what's included before their visit. If you have questions about your plan or whether your child is eligible, we're happy to help—just call our Nashville office.

Pediatric dentists have 2-3 additional years of specialized training in child development, behavior guidance, and techniques specific to treating children. We understand how children's teeth develop differently, know how to communicate with kids at their age level, and use child-friendly equipment and approaches. We're trained to recognize developmental problems early and help anxious or special-needs children feel comfortable. While general dentists can treat kids, pediatric dentists specialize in making dental care positive and effective for children specifically.

Absolutely. Dental anxiety in children is common and treatable. Our pediatric dentist has extensive experience working with nervous kids and uses proven techniques like positive reinforcement, distraction, and going at the child's pace. We talk with children in language they understand, show them tools before using them, and give them control where possible. Many anxious children leave their first visit with us surprised that it wasn't scary. Tell us about your child's concerns at your appointment, and we'll do our best to create a positive experience.

Yes, baby teeth matter a lot. They help your child eat, speak, and smile properly. They also hold space for permanent teeth to come in correctly—if baby teeth are lost to decay too early, permanent teeth can come in crooked, requiring expensive orthodontic treatment later. Baby teeth also affect jaw development and bite. Taking care of baby teeth teaches good habits and prevents problems that would be much more expensive to fix later. Preventive pediatric dentistry saves money and protects your child's smile long-term.

Most children should see a kids dentist every 6 months for preventive cleanings and exams. This schedule helps catch problems early and keeps your child's teeth and gums healthy. Some children with higher cavity risk, gum disease, or other concerns may benefit from more frequent visits (every 3-4 months). We'll recommend a schedule based on your individual child's needs during their visit.

Yes, fluoride is safe and effective for children. It strengthens enamel and prevents cavities. Fluoride comes in several forms: toothpaste (which kids should use from age 2-3), water fluoridation (if available in your area), and professional fluoride treatments at the dentist's office. Fluoride is backed by the American Dental Association and American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. We'll discuss what's right for your child's age and risk level during your visit.