Preventive Pediatric Dentistry

in Los Feliz, Los Angeles

Just as for adults, dental check-ups and cleanings for kids are important. Our friendly dental team will ensure your child's teeth and gums are clean and healthy. We also examine their mouth and any necessary x-rays to catch any potential toothy troubles early. These visits are a great time to chat about what to expect as your child's smile grows, including tips for oral care at home and food choices that can help keep their teeth strong and bright.

When a pesky cavity pops up in your child's teeth, Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) might come to the rescue! This kid-friendly procedure is quick, pain-free, and doesn't involve any drills or shots. It's like painting a superhero shield on their tooth that fights off decay-causing bacteria and strengthens their tooth. So, if your child has a cavity, fillings aren't the only heroes in town!

Digital x-rays, a quick and efficient method for capturing images of your child's dental health, are used only when deemed necessary by the dentist. Typically, x-rays are recommended every few years, though children with a higher risk of oral disease may need more frequent scans.

When it comes to protecting little smiles, pediatric dental sealants are one of the easiest and most effective treatments available. At Griffith Pediatric Dentistry in Los Feliz, Dr. Stephanie Cruz, a board-certified pediatric dentist, offers dental sealants tailored specifically for children. These thin, protective coatings are gently brushed onto the grooves of molars to shield teeth from decay.

Yes, even kids need oral cancer screenings! This quick and safe check can be done without your child even noticing. Our dental team will take a good look at your child's mouth, gums, and oral tissues for any signs of trouble. If we spot something out of the ordinary, we'll guide you through the next steps. Regular dental visits can help us keep your child's mouth healthy and happy!

We believe in a "whole health" approach, which includes yummy, healthy food choices. It's not always easy to change eating habits, but it's definitely worth it. Eating well benefits not only your child's smile but their overall wellbeing. Let us help guide you in creating tooth-friendly menus that the whole family will love!

Building a strong foundation for healthy oral habits will establish your child's dental routine for their entire lives. With our educational, compassionate care, we are here to give your child the guidance they need to have healthy dental hygiene that will stick with them for a lifetime.

Fluoride treatments offer a simple, non-invasive way to prevent dental decay. After your child's cleaning, a fluoride-rich gel or varnish is applied, followed by a short period of no eating or drinking. Fluoride initiates a process called “remineralization,” strengthening teeth with essential minerals.

Is your child having trouble staying still at the dentist? Do they get anxious about dental visits? We have a solution: sedation options. Our sedation methods can help calm restlessness and anxiety, making sure your child gets the dental care they need without fear or stress. This helps your child stay calm and comfortable and starts building a positive attitude towards dental care and oral health. If you think sedation might help your child, let us know. We'll help you find the right option for them.

ICON is a gentle, minimally invasive treatment that can erase those white spots on teeth caused by early enamel damage, fluorosis, or trauma. Instead of drilling, ICON uses a special resin to penetrate and smooth out the affected enamel, restoring a more even, natural look to your child’s smile—often in just one visit.

If your child plays contact sports or participates in high-impact activities, a custom sports guard is essential. These guards protect teeth, lips, and jaws from injury during play—and they fit far better than bulky store-bought options. We offer sports guards for all ages, from elementary school to teen athletes.

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Some teenagers develop nighttime grinding or clenching habits (called bruxism), which can wear down teeth, cause jaw pain, and lead to long-term dental issues. A custom night guard provides a comfortable, protective barrier to help prevent damage and support restful sleep.

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