Reviewed by Dr. Wael Sadek, DDS·[date pending review]
What is kids' dentistry at a family practice?
Kids' dentistry at a family practice means your children see the same dentist as the rest of the family. Dr. Wael Sadek checks your child's teeth, cleans them, and watches how they grow. Early, regular visits help find cavities while they are small and help kids feel at ease in the dental chair.
We see children starting at [OFFICE TO CONFIRM: youngest age seen]. The American Dental Association suggests a first dental visit within six months of the first tooth coming in, and no later than a child's first birthday. Baby teeth matter. They help children chew and speak, and they hold space for adult teeth.
Signs your child should see the dentist
- White, brown, or dark spots on the teeth.
- Your child says a tooth hurts, or avoids chewing on one side.
- Gums that bleed or look red and puffy.
- A chipped or broken tooth after a fall.
- An adult tooth coming in behind a baby tooth that has not fallen out.
- It has been a while since the last checkup.
What happens at a visit
- Getting started. A parent or guardian fills out a health history. Our new patient page explains what to bring.
- Meeting the dentist. Dr. Sadek talks with your child in simple words and lets them see the tools before he uses them.
- Checking the teeth. He looks at each tooth, the gums, and the bite, and watches how teeth are coming in.
- Gentle cleaning. The teeth are cleaned and polished.
- Imaging only when needed. The office uses digital imaging. Images are taken only when the dentist needs them to check for problems.
- Tips for parents. You get advice on brushing, snacks, and habits. Ask about fluoride, and ask us whether dental sealants are a good fit for your child.
Helping teeth stay healthy at home
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Use a smear the size of a grain of rice for children under 3, and a pea-sized amount for ages 3 to 6.
- Help your child brush until they can do a thorough job on their own.
- Start flossing once teeth touch each other.
- Offer water between meals and limit juice, soda, and sticky snacks.
- Do not put a baby to bed with a bottle of milk or juice.
Tooth injuries and pain
If an adult tooth is knocked out, hold it by the top, not the root. Keep it moist in milk and call right away. If the office is closed, or your child has other injuries, go to an emergency room. For tooth pain, call as early in the day as you can and the front desk will look for the soonest time open. If your child has facial swelling that spreads toward the eye or neck, a fever, or trouble breathing or swallowing, call 911 or go to an emergency room.
Cost factors
The cost of your child's visit depends on the care needed, whether imaging is taken, and your insurance plan. Many dental plans cover checkups for children, but plans differ. We accept dental insurance, so call to check your plan. CareCredit can spread larger treatment into monthly payments. Ask for an estimate before treatment.
Why families choose our office
Americana Family Dental sees kids, teens, adults, and grandparents, so families can book together and keep one dental home. Dr. Wael Sadek speaks English and Arabic and explains things to children and parents in plain words. The office has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking, and restroom, which helps with strollers too. We are in Americana Plaza in Orlando, open Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM. Appointments are recommended. Call (407) 850-0133.
Questions patients ask
When should my child first see a dentist?
The American Dental Association suggests a first visit within six months of the first tooth, and no later than the first birthday. At our office, we see children starting at [OFFICE TO CONFIRM: youngest age seen]. Call (407) 850-0133 to ask about booking your child's first visit.
How can I help my child feel calm at the dentist?
Talk about the visit in simple, positive words, and avoid words like hurt or shot. Read a picture book about going to the dentist. Book a time of day when your child is usually rested. Dr. Sadek explains each step in kid-friendly words and lets your child see the tools first.
Are baby teeth really that important?
Yes. Baby teeth help children chew, speak clearly, and smile with confidence. They also hold space for adult teeth. A cavity in a baby tooth can cause pain and infection, and losing a baby tooth too early can let other teeth drift into the space.
Can my whole family come to the same office?
Yes. Americana Family Dental is a family practice that sees kids, teens, adults, and grandparents. Many families book visits close together to save trips. Call (407) 850-0133 to ask about scheduling family members. Appointments are recommended, and we are open Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM.
