200 Gerault Rd Suite 400, Flower Mound, TX 75028 | (469) 912-1420

Call: (469) 912-1420
Schedule Online

Bringing your child to the dentist can feel overwhelming — there are so many questions: When should the first visit be? What will happen at the appointment? How much will it cost? At Ace Smile Dentistry in Flower Mound, TX, we understand that early dental care lays the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Our pediatric dentistry program — “Pediatric Dentistry of Flower Mound” — is designed with children’s needs in mind: friendly staff, child-appropriate equipment and environment, gentle treatment and clear communication with parents.

In the following article, we cover everything you (as a parent or caregiver) need to know about pediatric dentistry at our office: from when to start, what treatments are offered, what the process is like, what it costs, the pros and cons to consider, and answers to common questions. Our goal is to help you feel confident and informed when choosing dental care for your child.

Why Pediatric Dentistry Matters

Pediatric dentistry is more than “just cleaning kids’ teeth”. Children’s mouths are not just small adult mouths — they have developing jaws, erupting teeth, changing bite, and unique behavioral and psychological needs. According to the Cleveland Clinic, a pediatric dentist is specially trained to take care of teeth, gums, and oral health in children from infancy through the teen years, and to also teach good habits for life. (Cleveland Clinic)

Here are some of the key reasons pediatric dentistry is essential:

  • Early detection of issues. By seeing a child early, the dentist can spot signs of cavities, misalignment, or developmental issues before they become major problems. (happykidsdental.org)
  • Prevention and habit-building. Regular visits help reinforce brushing, flossing, healthy diet, and reduce the risk of decay and gum issues.
  • Specialized child-friendly care. Pediatric dental offices are set up for children — they understand child psychology, anxiety reduction, behavior management. (Cleveland Clinic)
  • Avoiding more extensive treatment later. Early preventive care often means smaller treatments (for example sealants instead of full crowns) and lower cost overall.

At Ace Smile Dentistry, our pediatric dentistry of Flower Mound programme emphasises these goals: we aim to keep your child’s smile healthy, comfortable, and confident.

When Should Your Child Visit the Dentist?

A frequent question from parents is: When should my child first visit the dentist? The general recommendation is by the time the first baby tooth appears or by their first birthday, whichever comes first. (Cleveland Clinic)

Why so early? Because:

  • Even very young children can develop tooth decay (baby bottle caries) or have developmental issues.
  • The dentist can evaluate not just teeth but gums, jaw growth, alignment, habits (such as thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting).
  • Early visits help acclimate the child to the dental environment, reducing anxiety later.

At Ace Smile Dentistry, we welcome infants, toddlers, and children of all ages. We believe in establishing a “dental home” early so that regular checkups become a positive part of growing up.

Our Pediatric Dentistry Services (Pediatric Dentistry of Flower Mound)

Here is a detailed look at the main services we offer in our pediatric dentistry programme at Flower Mound. We break them down into Preventive, Restorative, Interceptive/Orthodontic, Behavioral & Emergency, and Special Needs/Advanced Care.

1. Preventive Services

Preventive care is the cornerstone of pediatric dentistry. By protecting and maintaining a child’s teeth and gums, we help avoid bigger problems down the line.

Routine exams & cleanings

  • At each visit we examine teeth, gums, jaw development, eruption of teeth, and note any risk factors (diet, hygiene, habits).
  • Professional cleaning removes plaque and tartar build-up that children’s brushing might miss. (koolkoaladental.com)
  • Discussion with parents about brushing techniques, flossing, nutrition, and good habits.

Fluoride treatments

  • Application of topical fluoride helps strengthen enamel and protect against decay. (hvkidsmiles.com)

Dental sealants

  • Especially for newly erupted permanent molars (approx ages 6–14). A thin protective coating is painted on the chewing surfaces of back teeth to prevent cavities in the pits and grooves. (hvkidsmiles.com)

Digital X-rays & diagnostic checkups

  • Low-dose digital radiographs help monitor tooth development, detect hidden decay, check for alignment issues. (sandhillsdental.com)

Nutrition and habit counselling

  • We talk with parents and children about sugar intake, snacking habits, thumb-sucking, pacifier use, and other habits that may affect oral health.

2. Restorative & Treatment Services

Despite best preventive efforts, sometimes treatment is needed. Here are common restorative services we offer for children:

Fillings

  • When a cavity is identified, we remove decay and fill the tooth with a child-appropriate material (often tooth-colored composite). (sandhillsdental.com)

Stainless steel crowns / Pediatric crowns

  • For baby teeth with large decay or after pulp therapy, a full-coverage crown (often stainless steel) may be placed. Pediatric crowns help protect the tooth until exfoliation. (Wikipedia)

Pulp therapy (pulpotomy / pulpectomy)

  • If decay reaches the pulp (nerve) of the tooth, we may perform a pulpotomy (removing diseased pulp from crown portion) or pulpectomy (removal of all pulp) to save the tooth. (Wikipedia)

Extractions

  • Removal of a baby tooth that is badly decayed, infected or obstructing eruption of permanent teeth. Dental extractions may sometimes be recommended for orthodontic reasons. (Pediatric Dentistry West)

3. Interceptive / Orthodontic Services

Early orthodontic assessment is often part of pediatric dentistry.

Space maintainers

  • If a child loses a baby tooth early, a space maintainer may be used to prevent shifting of adjacent teeth until the permanent tooth erupts. (hvkidsmiles.com)

Early bite/align­ment evaluation

  • We monitor jaw growth, bite development and tooth eruption patterns. If we identify bite problems (malocclusion) early, we may recommend interceptive orthodontic treatment, or refer to an orthodontist. (sandhillsdental.com)

4. Behavior Management & Emergency Care

Children may feel anxious or scared at the dentist. We are trained in child-focused behavior guidance and emergency services.

Behavior guidance

  • Our staff use techniques tailored to children: explanation in kid-friendly language, distraction, positive reinforcement, sometimes nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”) if needed. (UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh)

Dental emergency care

  • Kids can have dental trauma (knocked out tooth, fractured tooth), sudden toothache, infection. We offer prompt attention and coordinate care as needed.

5. Special Needs / Advanced Care

We are experienced treating children with special health care needs, developmental issues, or difficulty cooperating in a traditional dental environment. We coordinate sedation or hospital-based care if needed.

Our Treatment Process at Ace Smile Dentistry – Pediatric Dentistry of Flower Mound

Here is a step-by-step overview of what you and your child can expect when you choose our practice.

Step 1: Scheduling & New Patient Visit

  • You call (469-912-1420) or schedule online from our website.
  • Before the visit, we’ll ask you to complete a medical/dental history form for your child — covering allergies, medications, habits, childhood illnesses, any dental concerns.
  • On arrival, we welcome you and your child, help them feel comfortable in the waiting area (we maintain a child-friendly, warm environment).

Step 2: Initial Examination & Consultation

  • The dentist (or pediatric-trained dentist) examines the child’s mouth: baby teeth, permanent teeth eruption, jaws, gums, bite, habits (sucking, tongue thrusting).
  • We may take digital X-rays if needed (with parent consent) to check for hidden problems such as cavities between teeth or developing teeth beneath the gums.
  • The hygienist or dentist will clean the child’s teeth (remove plaque, polish) and may apply fluoride varnish or sealants.
  • We discuss findings with the parent/caregiver: what we see, what we recommend, and why. We explain preventive measures, diet/habit adjustments, brushing/flossing techniques.

Step 3: Treatment Planning

  • If the child only needs preventive care (cleaning, fluoride, sealants) then we schedule routine recall visits (typically every 6 months).
  • If restorations are needed (fillings, pulp therapy, crowns) or orthodontic concerns identified, we’ll develop a treatment plan.
  • The dentist will explain the recommended treatment: what it involves, why it’s necessary, what alternatives exist, and approximate cost.
  • We review the child’s behavioral and comfort needs, and ensure the environment is child-appropriate. We plan for any sedation or special accommodations if required.

Step 4: Treatment Execution

  • On the treatment day, we prepare the child: explaining the procedure in age-appropriate language (“We’re going to give your tooth a little clean coat to protect it”) and ensure they feel safe.
  • We use local anesthesia (numbing gel, injection) or other comfort measures as needed. For more anxious children or more complex treatments, sedation or nitrous oxide may be used. (UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh)
  • The dentist performs the procedure (e.g., drilling and filling, crown placement, extraction). We use child-appropriate materials (e.g., stainless steel crowns for baby molars, composite fillings).
  • After treatment, we review post-care instructions: what to expect (e.g., slight soreness), how to care for the treated tooth, what to avoid (hard candies, sticky foods), when to call if concern arises.
  • We book follow-up/recall visits. Routine check-ups every 6 months are recommended for most children; more frequently for high-risk children.

Step 5: Ongoing Maintenance & Follow-Up

  • At each visit we re-evaluate, update the treatment plan if needed, reinforce preventive messages (brushing, flossing, diet/habits).
  • For children with orthodontic needs, we track their growth and refer to orthodontist when appropriate.
  • We keep parents informed: after each visit you receive a summary of findings, recommendations, and any needed future treatment.
  • We encourage a partnership: successful pediatric dentistry means active involvement from both the dental team and the parents/caregivers at home.

Cost of Pediatric Dentistry at Flower Mound (What to Expect)

One of the most frequent concerns is cost. While exact fees vary depending on complexity, materials, and individual case, here is a breakdown of typical cost ranges (US figures) and how we handle financial planning at Ace Smile Dentistry.

Typical Cost Ranges

According to published sources:

National data also show average annual spending for children with private dental benefits: ages 1-6 ~US $182; ages 7-12 ~US $416. (American Dental Association)

Important: Because Ace Smile Dentistry is located in Flower Mound, TX (in the Dallas–Fort Worth area), local market rates may be slightly higher or lower depending on specific treatment and materials used.

Our Approach to Cost & Financing

  • At the initial consultation, we will give you a detailed estimate of any recommended treatment, including options, cost breakdown, and expected timing.
  • We accept major insurance plans and will help you coordinate benefits. Preventive services are often covered in full or in large part by children’s dental insurance.
  • For more significant treatments (crowns, pulp therapy, sedation), we offer payment plans and flexible financing to make care accessible.
  • We emphasise preventive care — it’s much less expensive (and less invasive) than waiting until problems become advanced. As noted by pediatric dentistry cost experts: spending early often reduces the need for extensive treatment later. (Z Dentist San Antonio)

Factors That Affect Cost

Several factors can influence the cost of pediatric dental treatment at our practice:

  • Age of the child and level of cooperation (younger children may require shorter appointments or more behaviour management)
  • Extent of decay or damage (a small filling is less costly than multiple surfaces, pulp therapy, or crown)
  • Materials used (tooth-colored vs amalgam, stainless steel crown vs custom crown)
  • Need for sedation or advanced behaviour management
  • Use of digital X-rays or special diagnostic equipment
  • Frequency of visits (children at higher risk may require more frequent visits)
  • Insurance coverage and whether the care falls under preventive (often full coverage) or restorative (often partial coverage)

Value Perspective

While cost is important, consider the value: early, quality care means fewer problems, less pain or disruption, fewer visits, and better long-term oral health. As one article states: although pediatric dental care may sometimes cost more than routine adult dentistry in the short term, the value derived — fewer cavities, less dental anxiety, lower costs in the long run — is significant. (Z Dentist San Antonio)

Pros & Cons of Pediatric Dentistry at Our Office

To help you decide, here’s a balanced look at the advantages and some considerations (or limitations) of pediatric dentistry at Ace Smile Dentistry’s Flower Mound location.

Pros

  • Child-friendly environment: We tailor our care to children — staff trained in behavior management, welcoming atmosphere, kid-appropriate explanations, and a gentle approach.
  • Comprehensive care under one roof: Preventive, restorative, orthodontic screening — many services available in one location.
  • Early intervention: Catching and correcting problems early leads to better outcomes, less invasive treatment, and lower long-term cost.
  • Focus on prevention: Emphasis on education, habits, and protection (sealants/fluoride) — which leads to fewer cavities and better overall oral health.
  • Coordination with parents/caregivers: We believe in open communication, clear explanation of treatment options, and cost transparency.
  • Access and location: As noted on the website, Ace Smile Dentistry is conveniently located in Flower Mound and serves the surrounding Dallas–Fort Worth region. (Ace Smile Dentistry)

Cons / Considerations

  • Cost variation and insurance complexity: Although we strive for transparency, actual cost depends on individual factors and insurance. Some families may face out-of-pocket expenses for more advanced treatment.
  • Child cooperation required: Some treatments (fillings, crowns) require a cooperative child or the use of sedation; younger children may need more behavior management strategies.
  • Scheduling and time commitment: Treatment may require multiple visits (especially for more complex cases); parents need to commit time and bring the child to appointments.
  • Not all interventions can be avoided: Despite excellent preventive care, some children will still require fillings, crowns or extraction — especially if diet/habits/family history increase risk.
  • Waiting until permanent teeth is not always optimal: The temptation to “wait for the permanent teeth” can be risky — missing a baby tooth that is badly decayed or infected can affect space maintenance, alignment, and overall development.

Overall, the benefits strongly outweigh the drawbacks — especially when you choose a practice that emphasises prevention, child-friendly care, and transparent communication, such as Ace Smile Dentistry.

Why Choose Ace Smile Dentistry for Pediatric Dentistry of Flower Mound?

Here are some of the key reasons our patients choose us for their children’s dental care:

  • Experienced and caring dental team: Dr. Prathyusha Mendu (and team) engage in continuing education and use modern protocols to ensure high-quality dental care. (Ace Smile Dentistry)
  • Comprehensive services: From regular check-ups and cleanings to more advanced restorative and interceptive orthodontic care, we provide a broad range of pediatric dentistry services.
  • Family-friendly environment: Our office is designed for children and families — a warm, welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, and emphasis on making the dental visit a positive experience.
  • Convenient location & hours: Located at 200 Gerault Rd Suite 400, Flower Mound, TX 75028, with hours including Saturdays, making it easier for busy families. (Ace Smile Dentistry)
  • Transparent cost and flexible payment options: We provide clear estimates and support insurance coordination and payment plans to make care more accessible.
  • Commitment to prevention and education: We don’t just treat problems — we work to prevent them, by teaching children and parents about habits, hygiene and diet.

What to Expect at Your Child’s First Visit

It’s helpful to know what will happen so you and your child feel prepared.

  • Arrive 10-15 minutes early to fill out any necessary forms (medical/dental history).
  • The dentist and/or hygienist will greet you and your child, help them feel comfortable.
  • Examination: The dentist will check the mouth, teeth, gums, jaws, and may take digital X-rays (with parental consent).
  • Cleaning: If appropriate, the hygienist will clean the teeth, polish them, and apply fluoride varnish.
  • Discussion: The dentist will review findings with you and your child. This includes what we observed, whether any treatment is needed now or in the future, preventive suggestions (brushing, flossing, diet).
  • For many children, if all is well, we’ll schedule the next recall visit (typically in 6 months).
  • If treatment is needed, we’ll provide a clear plan and cost estimate — you will have time to ask questions and decide how to proceed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some Frequently Asked Questions from parents regarding pediatric dentistry, along with our answers.

Q1. At what age should I bring my child to the dentist?
A1. We recommend bringing your child when the first baby tooth appears or by the first birthday — whichever comes first. Early visits help us monitor development and catch issues early. (Cleveland Clinic)

Q2. How often should my child go for check-ups?
A2. Generally, every 6 months is appropriate for most children. If your child is at higher risk for decay (e.g., history of cavities, diet high in sugar, special needs), we may recommend more frequent visits.

Q3. Are digital X-rays safe for children?
A3. Yes. Digital X-rays use very low doses of radiation. We always use protective measures (lead apron, thyroid collar) and only take images when clinically necessary. These help us detect issues beneath the surface that we might not see otherwise.

Q4. Will treatment hurt my child?
A4. Our goal is to make treatment as comfortable as possible. We use numbing gels, local anesthesia, behavior guidance, and for more anxious children, sedation or nitrous oxide can be used. After treatment, there may be mild soreness, but we’ll give you instructions and contact information if you have concerns.

Q5. Are baby teeth important? Why not wait until permanent teeth come in?
A5. Yes — baby teeth are very important. They help your child chew, speak and smile. They hold space for permanent teeth, guide their eruption, and maintain proper alignment. Losing baby teeth early or having extensive decay can lead to complications such as shifting of adjacent teeth, bite issues, and future orthodontic problems.

Q6. What if my child is scared of the dentist?
A6. Many children are apprehensive. Our staff are trained in behavior guidance: we explain in a friendly, age-appropriate way, let the child acclimate to the environment, use gentle words, positive reinforcement, distraction or nitrous oxide if needed. We’ll work together to make the visit a positive experience.

Q7. Does dental insurance cover pediatric dentistry?
A7. Many children’s dental plans cover preventive services (check-ups, cleanings, fluoride, sealants) in full or mostly. Restorative procedures (fillings, crowns) are often covered partially. We will help you check benefits and provide estimates. (petrie-dental.com)

Q8. What happens if we miss a recall visit?
A8. While one missed visit is not catastrophic, skipping regular check-ups increases risk of undetected decay, alignment issues or gum problems. We’ll contact you for recalls, and encourage setting up a routine so that dental care becomes part of your child’s regular health care.

Q9. My child has had a lot of cavities. Is it too late?
A9. Not at all. While higher risk means we’ll tailor more intensive preventive efforts, we can still manage decay, restore teeth, and give you strategies to reduce future risk. Early or more frequent visits may be advised.

Q10. Will my child eventually need braces?
A10. Possibly. Our orthodontic screening is part of pediatric dentistry. We monitor your child’s growth and bite. If we identify alignment or bite issues early, we may refer to an orthodontist or provide interceptive treatment. Early evaluation can sometimes simplify or reduce future orthodontic treatment.

Tips for Parents: Making Pediatric Dental Visits Positive

Here are some practical tips to help your child have a positive dental experience:

  • Start by talking positively about the dentist — avoid labels like “needle”, “pain” or “you’ll be fine just this once”. Keep it simple: “We’re going to visit Dr. Mendu to make your smile healthy.”
  • Practice at home: Let your child hold a mirror, count teeth, let them brush your teeth (“now you brush mine”). Make it fun.
  • On the day of the visit, arrive a little early so your child has time to acclimate.
  • Bring their favourite comfort object (small toy, blanket) if that helps them feel safe.
  • Ask questions: Bring a list of habits or issues you’ve noticed (thumb-sucking, grinding, diet). The dentist can give specific advice.
  • After the visit, reinforce the visit positively: “You did a great job!”small reward (non-food) if you like.
  • At home, support good habits: brushing twice daily, flossing (or interdental cleaning) once a day, limiting sugary snacks, drinking water, and not going to bed with a bottle or sippy-cup with sugary drink.
  • Keep your child’s dental records and ensure recall visits are kept in their schedule.

Case Studies & What to Expect

Here are two hypothetical but typical scenarios of pediatric dental treatment at Ace Smile Dentistry, to illustrate how the process works:

Case A: 6-year-old child, first visit, newly erupted permanent first molars

  • Child visits for the first time. Teeth are mostly healthy, no cavities.
  • Dentist cleans, polishes, applies fluoride varnish.
  • On the newly erupted permanent 6-year molars, dentist applies sealants to the chewing surfaces to reduce future decay risk.
  • Parent receives education on brushing twice daily, flossing between the back teeth, limiting sugary drinks and snacks, and scheduling the next visit in 6 months.
  • Cost: largely preventive; with insurance these services are often fully covered; minimal out-of-pocket expense for parent.

Case B: 9-year-old child, several cavities in baby molars, mild early bite misalignment

  • On examination: two baby molars have large cavities, one shows early pulp involvement. The bite shows posterior cross-bite beginning.
  • Treatment plan: placement of stainless steel crowns on the decayed baby molars (to protect them), pulpotomy on one tooth, fluoride treatment, sealants on permanent molars, space maintainer if needed later, and referral to orthodontist for evaluation of the cross-bite.
  • Behaviour guidance: since child is a bit anxious, we use nitrous oxide sedation during treatment.
  • Post-treatment: instructions given to parents about pain management (mild soreness), restrictions on hard/sticky foods for a short period, follow up in 2 weeks for check, recall in 6 months for review of eruption and bite.
  • Cost: higher than simple preventive visit but with clear estimate and payment plan options. Insurance covers part; parents informed of out-of-pocket cost before treatment begins.

Advanced Topics in Pediatric Dentistry

Here are some additional topics you may encounter or wish to discuss with your child’s dentist:

Sedation & General Anesthesia

For children who have significant anxiety, very young age, extensive dental needs, or special-health-care-needs, sedation (nitrous oxide, oral sedation) or even general anesthesia may be considered. Our team will evaluate safety, discuss options, and coordinate care if advanced sedation is needed.

Dental Trauma

Children often experience injuries to their teeth (e.g., knocked-out tooth, fractured tooth). In pediatric dentistry, prompt treatment is vital: saving a knocked-out permanent tooth depends on quick action; baby-teeth injuries may affect erupting permanent teeth. Always call us immediately if trauma occurs.

Habit Interventions

Thumb-sucking, pacifier use, tongue-thrusting or mouth-breathing can affect bite, tooth alignment and jaw growth. We monitor these habits and may recommend interventions or referral to specialists (orthodontist, myofunctional therapist) when needed.

Space Maintenance & Early Orthodontics

As discussed, early loss of baby teeth or early signs of malocclusion may require space maintainers, partial braces or other early orthodontic devices. Early intervention can reduce the need for more complex treatment later.

Special Needs Dentistry

Children with developmental delays, autism spectrum disorders, and other special-health-care-needs often require customised care. At Ace Smile Dentistry we strive to provide a comfortable and safe environment for all children; we coordinate with specialists if needed.

Emerging Technologies & Materials

Pediatric dentistry is evolving: we use digital radiography (for lower radiation), child-safe materials, behavior-management strategies, and preventive technologies such as sealants and varnishes. Best-practice guidelines (for example by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry) inform our care. (AAPD)

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

Here are mistakes parents often make — and how we help you avoid them:

  • Waiting until there is a problem: Many wait until the child has pain or a cavity rather than visiting early. Early visits detect problems before pain arises.
  • Underestimating baby teeth: Treating baby teeth as “just temporary” often leads to neglect; but they are important placeholders for permanent teeth and affect chewing, speaking, and alignment.
  • Relying solely on brushing-with no professional visits: At-home care is vital but cannot substitute professional cleaning, examination and sealants.
  • Ignoring dietary/sugary habits: Frequent sugary snacks, sippy-cups with sweet drinks, and prolonged bottle use increase decay risk. Behavior change at home is crucial.
  • Not following recall schedule: Skipping checkups means problems may develop unnoticed.
  • Not asking enough questions: Ask about treatment options, cost, behaviour management, sedation, and preventive strategies. Our practice encourages open dialogue.

Pediatric Dentistry at Ace Smile Dentistry – Summary & Next Steps

In summary, the pediatric dentistry of Flower Mound offered at Ace Smile Dentistry provides comprehensive, child-friendly oral health care. From the first baby tooth to the teen years, our goal is to keep your child’s smile healthy, strong and confident.

Next steps for parents & caregivers:

  1. Call our office at (469) 912-1420 or schedule online to arrange your child’s first visit.
  2. Complete the new-patient form (medical/dental history) before the appointment for smoother check-in.
  3. On the day of the visit, arrive a little early and bring any past dental history (if your child visited another dentist).
  4. Feel free to ask any questions you have — about costs, treatment options, behaviour management, sedation options, or anything else.
  5. After the visit, follow recommended preventive guidelines at home (brushing, flossing, diet) and keep the recall schedule.

We look forward to helping your child achieve a healthy, lifelong smile. Early visits, gentle care, and a focus on prevention set the foundation for happier, healthier teeth and gums.

Contact & Location

Ace Smile Dentistry
200 Gerault Rd Suite 400
Flower Mound, TX 75028
Phone: (469) 912-1420
Website: dentistflowermound.com
Hours: Monday–Thursday 8 am-5 pm, Friday 8 am-5 pm, Saturday 8 am-2 pm, Sunday closed. (Ace Smile Dentistry)

Thank you for considering Ace Smile Dentistry for your child’s oral health needs. We are committed to delivering excellent pediatric dentistry care in Flower Mound with compassion, expertise, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.

Ace Smile Dentistry
Powered by  GDPR Cookie Compliance
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.