As your family’s dental home for child and teenage dentistry, we aim to nurture your children’s dental health as they grow into their adolescent years. We are passionate about evolving dental experiences as kids transition from childhood into their tween and teenage years. Creating an age-appropriate, personally tailored dental experience for each of our guests is our goal for every dental experience we engage in.
Child & Teen Dentistry ·
Child & Teen Dentistry ·
Child & Teen Dentistry ·
Child & Teen Dentistry ·
Child & Teen Dentistry ·
A Dental Visit To Look Forward To:
For any of us to look forward to an event, a good feeling needs to be associated with it. Good feelings range from feeling safe and honored to feelings of interest, fun and excitement. The formula is different for each of us and is also ever-changing. A positive dental experience has a lot to do with mindful listening, understanding and prioritizing. It requires open, heartfelt discussions with you and your family. We believe in creating positive dental experiences that build trust and encourage self empowerment.
Promoting Dental Education:
We believe in nurturing dental awareness in kids of all ages through communication and education. Dental-conscious children understand the reasoning behind the self care that we promote as adults. They become willing partners and self-advocates for what fosters their personal well-being. Guiding our children through knowledge and scientific data, answering their questions and teaching them how to ensure their dental well-being is essential for dental health that lasts a lifetime. They might even surprise you in leading the way to the whole family’s dental thriving!
A Pediatric Dentist From Childhood To Young Adulthood:
We view your children and teenagers as family and look forward to watching them grow in our practice. We feel that this continuity of care is integral to nurturing the bond of trust between our team, you, and your family. Understanding your children’s preferences, activities and lifestyles helps us collaborate with your family to guide their dental development in a healthy direction. It also allows us to empower them to celebrate their continued dental well-being.
Comprehensive Services For Child/Teen Dentistry:
The Smiles Steps to Infant oral health:
Hover or tap to reveal steps
1
Cultivate the good habit of brushing and flossing morning and night. A toothbrush and floss go together like salt and pepper!
2
Add a daily mouthwash at nighttime to supercharge saliva with mineralizing ions that fortify the dentition during the hours of slumber.
3
Promote healthy eating patterns understanding how habits, different foods and beverages, or practices can affect our dental wellness.
4
Pair up routine dental checkups with any needed orthodontic adventures as a comprehensive dental wellness approach.
5
Consider additional dental cleanings during orthodontic care.
6
Nurture collaborations with other specialists such as your pediatrician, a speech therapist, a myofunctional or occupational therapist to enhance oral and general well-being.
7
Approach teenage esthetic desires with mindfulness
8
Keep the conversations open-hearted. All questions are welcome!
FAQs for Child/Teen Dental Care:
What are the benefits of continuing with a pediatric dentist from early childhood to late teenage years?
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) issued a policy in the nineties defining the “medical home” This concept means finding a healthcare facility that offers comprehensive, continuously accessible, family centered, coordinated, compassionate care for your child
The “dental home” policy was issued by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) in 2001. A dental home ensures comprehensive oral care that evolves as your child grows and develops. Continuity of excellent care not only promotes dental health but also allows kids the opportunity to feel safe and well cared for.
Our office’s pride and joy is caring for our clients from infancy into their late teenage years. We celebrate achievements from starting preschool to collage acceptances along with our families! Our Smiles Champions are the teenagers that have grown up in our practice. You can learn about a few of them and their experiences with us on the page dedicated to them. Each of our champions (those featured here and those not) holds a special place in our hearts.
What is the Smiles approach of Dental Salutogenesis about?
Salutogenesis is a term coined by the Social Scientist Aaron Antonovsky in 1979. The theory focuses on the origins of health and factors that promote well-being rather than those that cause disease. The term comes from the Latin word salus (health) and the Greek word genesis (origin).
Our goal at Smiles is to cultivate dental health and well-being by educating families about how to be and stay healthy. We teach how to prevent issues from arising and intervene with minimally involved tactics, when needed, to quickly reverse early challenges and promote the return to well-being.
Do I need to help my child brush their teeth?
Supervising tooth brushing for small children is important to ensure that the job is well accomplished. Small kids also need help with flossing. Children improve their dexterity skills as they grow but even teenagers sometimes need help achieving good oral hygiene practices.
Part of each dental visit is dedicated to educating you and your child or teen about how they are doing with oral hygiene and what to do if changes are needed. We are very “hand-on” with health-promoting practices that the whole family can enjoy and benefit from.
What causes cavities?
To understand how cavities form, we need to understand the science of the oral microbiome. Our mouths are homes to an intricate oral flora ecosystem that is constantly equilibrating depending on a variety of influencing factors. The balance of this flora can shift in the direction of dental health or its opposite. Changes depend on the populations and types of microorganisms and their dominance in the oral flora.
Friendly oral flora is favorable for tooth structure preservation and mineralization while caries-causing flora can destruct teeth. Cavities or dental caries are holes in teeth that are caused by a group of germs that create an unfavorable dental environment. These groups of bacteria feed on sugar that is introduced to the mouth by dietary intake and thrive on frequent sugar exposure.
What makes these types of germs damaging is that they produce acids that damage the structure of teeth by depleting the calcium in the enamel and dentin. They also create plaque, which is a glue-like layer that allows more bacteria to stick to the tooth surfaces. It appears as a yellowish film that builds up on teeth and contains enamel-eroding acids.
This is why meticulous oral hygiene helps to keep teeth healthy and safe. Toothbrushing and flossing go hand in hand in removing dental plaque. Dental Sealants can further protect deep grooves and crevices on the chewing surfaces of molars that are too deep for toothbrush bristles to reach.
Where does the cavity-causing bacteria come from?
Babies are not born with bacteria in their mouths. They develop their oral and gut flora as they enter into the world and interact with their family. When they are exposed to someone who already has high levels of cavity-causing bacteria, like a mother, father or caregiver, they can acquire similar strains of germs. A sibling who has a high cavity rate can also be involved. Eating from the same spoon as the baby or sharing a toy or toothbrush are common forms of transmission. The easiest way to cultivate dental well-being for our children is to make sure that we, the parents, maintain optimum oral health levels.
What does a cavity look like?
The first stage to a cavity is caused by the sticky film of plaque that has been in contact with a tooth surface for an extended period of time. It appears as a chalky white spot and represents an area of enamel that has lost mineral content, rendering it dull in appearance and weaker in structure. If left untreated, this chalky area will lose enough mineral contact to the point of collapsing and creating a hole known as a cavity.
Many parents don’t notice these stages of the disease and are only able to visualize the cavity when the damage is severe or if it eventually turns dark in color. Treating the first sign of cavities means we are able to manage the disease before we have to deal with what the disease is causing, which is the actual cavities. This approach is called the medical approach to dental disease and represents a progressive paradigm shift in dental caries management.
Chalky spots or “white spot lesions” are treatable with a multitude of dental agents that can help recharge the mineral content loss. These treatments are topical, easy and successful. They include remineralizing products, antibacterial rinses, Fluoride treatments, silver diamine fluoride care and resin infiltrations.
How will my child’s cavities be treated?
If your child is diagnosed with cavities, a comprehensive treatment plan will be presented. Because the cause of the disease is bacterial, restoring the cavities is only the first step toward achieving optimum oral health. The treatment plan must identify the steps for prevention of future decay and it must also address shifting the oral microbiome to a balance favoring oral harmony and dental well-being.
The age of your child is also very important. The younger your child is, or the more treatment they need, the more challenging it is for them to sit for long periods of time and allow meticulous dental care. This is when our sedation suite can offer wonderful solutions to keep children and teenagers comfortable and happy while allowing us to deliver excellent dental care.
Our Solea Laser is a state-of-the-art device that treats dental caries very comfortably. It is not only an incredible disinfectant, it allows gentle dental restorative procedures without the need to use local anesthetic. Solea is ideal for children of all ages from childhood to teenage years.
What is gingivitis and what is going on with my teenagers gums?
Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums that is usually caused by oral hygiene challenges. Any area that kids do not brush or floss will harbor plaque and gingivitis causing bacteria. Gingivitis can lead to periodontitis which is a more severe condition that includes inflammation of the tooth’s supporting tissues of bone and ligament.
The cause of gingivitis and periodontitis is bacterial but the groups of germs creating these problems are different than those that cause dental decay. The good news is that improving oral hygiene with an individualized dental plan and frequent dental cleanings are proven tactics in reversing this type of oral problem.
Are dental X-rays necessary?
Radiographs (x-rays) are a vital and necessary part of your child’s dental examination. Without them, certain dental conditions can go unseen and opportunities of reversing early changes can be missed. Radiographs are also needed to evaluate healthy development and plan orthodontic care safely and effectively.
Smiles adopts the “Image Gently” paradigm. We do not take dental images every visit unless there is sound reasoning to do so. We follow the guidelines of The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) and use mindful evaluation on a case to case basis.
Our office is set up with an impressive lineup of State-of-the-art dental imaging units. We use Dexis imaging digital sensors, the Nomad imaging unit and the latest Dexis OP 3D LX CBCT imaging unit with its ultra-low dose option that is suitable for pediatric use.
Parents always ask — why see a dentist at age one? 👶🦷
Because a healthy smile starts early! The best time to build lifelong oral health is right at the beginning of your child’s journey. At Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in West Los Angeles, Dr. Reem and our team love guiding parents through their baby’s first dentist visit — making it gentle, positive, and fun. 💛
Early dental visits help prevent cavities, create good habits, and make future appointments easy and comfortable. Teaching parents how to care for their baby’s mouth is truly where healthy smiles begin. 🌈
What age was your child’s first dental visit? 💬
Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
📞 (310) 837-6453
📧 info@smilesla.com
📍 10582 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
Gentle care. Bright smiles. Growing with your child every step of the way. ✨
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics #KidsDentist #PediatricDentist #PediatricOrthodontist #WestLosAngeles #FirstDentalVisit #BabyDentist
What if a little 3D magic could help your child’s smile grow just right? ✨🦷
We’re so excited to introduce SmileKeeper™ — a next-generation, 3D printed, metal-free space maintainer made just for kids! 💫
Created by our founder, Dr. Reem, at Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in West Los Angeles, SmileKeeper™ combines digital precision with gentle care to protect space for growing teeth when a baby tooth is lost too early.
No metal. No discomfort. Just a soft, custom fit and a happier smile. 💖
This is more than technology — it’s how we care for kids with compassion, creativity, and love.
👇 Read our new blog to see how Dr. Reem and our team are shaping the future of pediatric dentistry with SmileKeeper™!
👉 https://smilesla.com/pediatric-dentistry-orthodontics/pediatric-space-maintainer-3dprinted-smilekeeper
Parents — has your child ever lost a baby tooth early? Share your story or drop your questions below! 💬✨
Want to learn if SmileKeeper™ is right for your child?
Call or message us today to schedule a gentle, easy visit. We’re here to make every child’s dental experience comfortable and fun! 🌈💛
Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in West LA
📞 (310) 837-6453
📧 info@smilesla.com
📍 10582 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
Caring hearts. Growing smiles. A gentler way to shine. 💕
#PediatricSpaceMaintainer#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics #SmileKeeper #KidsDentist #PediatricDentist #PediatricOrthodontist #WestLosAngeles #3DPrintedKidsSpaceMaintainer #kidstoothloss
Part 2 of 2 🍼💛 Pacifier
Here’s how to help your toddler say goodbye to the pacifier — gently and successfully. 🌈
Step 1: Downsize. Keep just one or two pacifiers and get rid of the rest.
Step 2: Use a clean pair of scissors to snip a tiny hole in the tip — this allows the pacifier to start collapsing. ✂️
Step 3: Every few nights, trim a little more off the tip. Tell your toddler their teeth must be super sharp and might be “nibbling” at it while they sleep — this keeps it lighthearted and positive. 💛
Step 4: Continue trimming until there’s no nipple left. The pacifier will slowly lose its comfort, helping your toddler let go naturally.
And just like that — it’s a happy pacifier graduation! 🧡🎓
Have you tried weaning your child off the pacifier yet? 💬
Share your experience or tips below — your story might help another parent!
Need gentle guidance for your child’s smile journey? 📲 Send us a DM or call today to schedule a visit.
📞 (310) 837-6453
📧 info@smilesla.com
📍 10582 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
Gentle care. Bright smiles. Growing healthy habits together. 💛🧡
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics
#KidsDentist
#PediatricDentist
#PediatricOrthodontist
#WestLosAngeles
#HealthySmiles
#PacifierWeaning
3 surprising things that can happen when baby teeth come in 🦷💛
One — Mild rash around the mouth: Caused by extra drooling that can irritate the skin.
Two — Rubbing gums: A natural response that helps teeth break through and soothes tender gums.
Three — Slight elevation of temperature: Sometimes happens when little ones eat or drink less during teething.
Pro tip: Keep a soft bib handy and apply a gentle moisturizer to help prevent rashes from drool. 💧🧡
Did any of these surprise you? 💬 Share your little one’s teething story below — we love hearing from our Smiles families!
Have questions about your baby’s first teeth? 📲 Send us a DM or call today to schedule a visit.
📞 (310) 837-6453
📧 info@smilesla.com
📍 10582 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
Gentle care. Bright smiles. Healthy habits from the first tooth. 💛🧡
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics
#KidsDentist
#PediatricDentist
#PediatricOrthodontist
#WestLosAngeles
#BabyTeeth
#TeethingTips
#HealthySmiles
Part 1 of 2 🍼💛
Ever wonder how long your child should keep their pacifier?
It starts as comfort — but over time, it can quietly change how little teeth and jaws grow.
In this video, Dr. Reem explains what happens when pacifier use continues into toddlerhood. The pacifier begins to act almost like an orthodontic appliance, changing the balance between the tongue, cheeks, and dental arches. 🦷✨
This shift can lead to what’s called a “Binky bite,” where the upper arch narrows, front teeth flare out, and back teeth collapse inward. Understanding this early helps protect your child’s developing smile. 🌈
Stay tuned for part 2, where Dr. Reem shares gentle, effective ways to help your toddler wean off the pacifier with love and success. 💛
Have you started the pacifier transition yet? 💬
Share your experience below — you might help another parent going through it too!
Need personalized guidance for your little one? 📲 Send us a DM or call today to schedule a visit.
📞 (310) 837-6453
📧 info@smilesla.com
📍 10582 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
Gentle care. Bright smiles. Growing healthy habits together. 💛🧡
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics
#KidsDentist
#PediatricDentist
#PediatricOrthodontist
#WestLosAngeles
#HealthySmiles
#PacifierWeaning #binkybite
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pediatric dentist in west LA explains pacifier weaning
Did you know babies grow 20 tiny teeth — and the first one often appears around 6 months? 🦷✨ Most babies start teething between 4 and 7 months, though every little smile has its own timing. The bottom front teeth usually pop up first, followed by those adorable top ones. By age 3, most children have their full set of 20 baby teeth! 🌈
Pro tip: Start early! Wiping your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth helps build healthy oral habits even before that first tooth arrives. 💧💛
When did your baby’s first tooth make its debut? Share your milestone moment below — we’d love to celebrate with you! 💬
Have questions about caring for your baby’s smile? 📲 Send us a DM or call today to schedule a visit.
📞 (310) 837-6453
📧 info@smilesla.com
📍 10582 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
Gentle care. Bright smiles. Healthy habits from the very first tooth. 🌼
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics
#KidsDentist
#PediatricDentist
#PediatricOrthodontist
#WestLosAngeles
#BabyTeeth
#TeethingTips
From his very first visit as a toddler to now — Oliver has been part of our Smiles family for 15 years! 💛 Watching our patients grow up with Dr. Reem is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. 🧡
Every smile tells a story — and we love being part of yours. 🌈
Do you have a Smiles story? 💬 Share your journey with us in the comments — we’d love to hear how long your family has been part of ours!
Want to start your child’s smile story today? 📲 Send us a DM or call to schedule your visit.
📞 (310) 837-6453
📧 info@smilesla.com
📍 10582 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
Gentle care. Bright smiles. Growing together through every stage. 💛🧡
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics
#KidsDentist
#PediatricDentist
#PediatricOrthodontist
#WestLosAngeles
#GrowingSmiles
#FamilyCare
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teen boy share dental story
Did you know the #1 area at risk for early childhood cavities in your toddler’s mouth is those adorable two top front teeth? 🦷✨ Unlike the bottom front teeth that get swept by the tongue and naturally washed with saliva, the top teeth are the first to be exposed to what your little one eats and drinks — which makes brushing here super important! 💛
Pro tip: If your toddler’s teeth touch instead of having small spaces between them, it’s time to start flossing — especially in that center midline contact! 🪥💫
Have you noticed if your child’s teeth touch or have space between them? Share your experience or ask us your toddler brushing questions below! 💬
Want personalized tips to protect your child’s smile? 📲 Send us a DM or call today to schedule a visit.
📞 (310) 837-6453
📧 info@smilesla.com
📍 10582 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
Gentle care. Bright smiles. Growing healthy habits early. 🌈
#SmilesPediatricDentistryandOrthodontics
#KidsDentist
#PediatricDentist
#PediatricOrthodontist
#WestLosAngeles
#HealthySmiles
#CavityPrevention
