Finding a dentist who can care for your whole family can be tough. Dr. Rebecca E. Benedict offers family dentistry for both kids and adults in Tampa, FL. With general dental care, our patients can keep their smiles bright and healthy. As needs change, we also offer cosmetic and restorative treatments to meet each patient’s goals.
Our practice makes it easier for families by offering appointments that both parents and children can attend together. We understand that busy schedules can make it hard to find time for everyone’s dental care. Our goal is to make visits smooth and comfortable for all family members.
Family Dentistry in Tampa, FL
Dental care is important at every age. Regular cleanings and at-home care can prevent cavities and gum issues. Which, if left untreated, can lead to more serious problems like gum recession, tooth loss, and chronic dental issues.
Kids are more prone to cavities than other age groups. This is often due to more frequent intake of sugary snacks and drinks, along with not brushing or flossing well. Teaching kids good habits early on can help them keep their teeth and gums healthy as they grow.
During your visit, our hygienists can offer tips on how to help your child brush and floss properly. We’ll also provide your child with a toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss to keep up with their routine at home.
Pediatric Dental Cleanings and Exams
It’s best to bring your child to the dentist when their first teeth start to come in. At these visits, we provide exams and cleanings. Seeing us every six months helps us track their dental health as they grow.
Each visit begins with a quick X-ray to check for any issues we might not see during a visual exam, like cavities. Next, we examine the gums and teeth, checking for any signs of decay. To make kids feel comfortable, we “count the teeth” with them.
For the cleaning, we remove any food debris or plaque from the teeth and gums, then polish the teeth with toothpaste that’s safe and fun for kids. Based on their age, we may suggest fluoride treatments or sealants with your approval.
Dental visits benefit all ages by keeping teeth clean and spotting any problems early. Cleanings, exams, and X-rays help us keep mouths healthy and allow us to create a plan if any issues come up.
Kids’ Dental Services in Hyde Park, FL
Sealants and fluoride help protect young teeth from cavities. We may suggest these treatments at routine visits to reduce decay risk:
Dental Sealants
The grooves in the chewing surfaces of teeth can trap food and bacteria, especially in back teeth that can be hard to reach with a brush. These areas often collect plaque, which can lead to tooth decay. When your child’s molars grow in, they’ll benefit from sealants.
Sealants are a quick, protective treatment applied after a cleaning. We place a thin layer of sealant on the chewing surfaces, covering grooves and protecting against decay for years.
Fluoride Treatment
Your mouth contains bacteria. While some bacteria keep your teeth and gums healthy, bad bacteria can damage oral health. Harmful bacteria feed on leftover debris from the foods and drinks you consume. This bacteria releases digestive acids that can demineralize teeth. This increases the risk of cavities.
Fluoride promotes the remineralization of the enamel and strengthens it to protect it from decay. We can apply a fluoride gel or varnish to the teeth to help protect them from cavities.
Gentle, Anxiety-Free Dentistry
We know that some people, especially kids, feel nervous about seeing the dentist. Fears can range from worries about pain and loud noises to general anxiety about being in a dental office. Whatever the concern, we’re here to help.
If your child feels anxious about the dentist, there are ways to help prepare them for their visit. Try reading children’s books that talk about going to the dentist, or pretend they’re visiting the dentist when you brush and floss their teeth. Making the visit sound fun and exciting can ease their worries.
When you bring your child to our office, we’ll take the time to introduce ourselves, answer their questions, and explain each step in simple terms. Our hygienists will pause during treatments if needed. Feel free to bring along a favorite blanket or toy, and you’re welcome to stay in the exam room for added comfort. Our goal is to make each visit as pain-free, calm, and positive as possible.
Adult Dentistry
Dental care matters for all ages, from children to seniors. At our Tampa office, we help patients at every stage of life maintain healthy, happy smiles.
As we age, new dental problems can come up that weren’t a concern before. Certain medications or health conditions, like diabetes or medications such as antihistamines and antidepressants, can increase the risk of gum issues. Changes like tooth damage or losing a tooth can affect how your teeth work and feel, which is why we provide treatments to restore comfort and function.
Our office offers a variety of restorative treatments to keep teeth and gums strong. We help patients with missing or damaged teeth, bite issues, and gum problems. Taking care of these issues early can save natural teeth and prevent bigger problems down the road.
If you’re in good dental health but want to improve your smile, our cosmetic dentistry options can help. We offer Invisalign, veneers, bonding, and teeth whitening to brighten and straighten teeth. These treatments are great for adults who want to fix issues like chipped, crooked, or discolored teeth.
Schedule A Dental Exam Today
Are you searching for a family dentist in Tampa, FL? Call Dr. Benedict at [new_patient-phone] or request an appointment online. We’re proud to serve patients in Tampa and Hyde Park, FL. Please reach out if you have questions about dental care for you or your family.