The Pediatric Dentistry Blog of Children's Dentistry of Manatee

A young girl having a dental checkup with a pediatric dentist

Does Medicaid Cover Dental Care for Kids in Florida?

Does Medicaid Cover Dental Care for Kids in Florida? If you're staring at a Medicaid or Florida KidCare card and wondering whether it actually pays for your child's next cleaning, here's the short answer: yes. Florida Medicaid covers dental care for children through a federal benefit called EPSDT, and Florida

dental hygiene for kids

When Should Kids Start Brushing Their Teeth? A Pediatric Dentist’s Guide

Parents usually don’t ask this question because they’re trying to become dental experts overnight. They ask because one day they’re holding a sleepy newborn with gummy little smiles, and the next they spot a tiny white edge breaking through the gums and think: wait, are we supposed to be brushing

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: What Causes It and How Parents Can Prevent It

Few things are more frustrating for parents than doing their best and still hearing that a toddler has cavities. It can feel confusing, especially when the teeth are brand new and your child is still so little. One of the most common reasons this happens is baby bottle tooth decay,

Sports Mouthguards for Kids

Sports and Kids’ Teeth: How Mouthguards Prevent Dental Injuries

When your child heads onto the field, court, rink, or mat, you probably think about the obvious essentials first: shoes, uniform, water bottle, maybe a helmet, maybe shin guards. But one of the most important pieces of safety gear is also one of the easiest to overlook: a mouthguard. For

when should kids stop sucking their thumb

Thumb Sucking and Pacifier Use: When Should Kids Stop?

For many parents, thumb sucking starts as one of those sweet baby behaviors that seems completely harmless. A sleepy toddler with a favorite blanket and a thumb in their mouth can look calm, cozy, and content. In the early years, that comfort is real. Many babies are born with a

White Spots on Kids Teeth

Why Do Kids Get White Spots on Their Teeth? Causes Parents Should Know

You’re doing your usual quick check of your child’s teeth after brushing when you notice something different, a small white spot or patch that stands out against the rest of their tooth. If you’ve spotted these chalky or cloudy-looking marks, you’re probably wondering what they are and whether you should

When to Get Braces for Kids

When to Get Braces for Kids: Signs It’s the Right Time

Wondering when to get braces for kids can feel confusing, especially when classmates seem to start at different times. You don’t have to wait until your child has lost all their baby teeth to seek orthodontic advice. The reality is that braces timing depends on dental development, bite function, and

Kids Grind Their Teeth While Sleeping

Why Do Kids Grind Their Teeth While Sleeping

Teeth grinding can sound harsh and worrying, especially when you notice it coming from your child’s room in the middle of the night. Many parents first realize their child’s teeth grinding is happening because they hear it during sleep or notice morning complaints like jaw pain or headaches. Learning why

Kids Teeth Cleaning

Kids’ Teeth Cleaning: How to Talk to Them About It

Helping children learn about kids’ teeth cleaning can turn nightly brush time into a simple routine that supports their oral health. Parents play a key role in establishing good habits by using playful visuals and hands-on practice to build confidence. Starting teeth cleaning early helps prevent cavities and tooth decay