Recent Posts

Every parent has watched their baby find comfort in sucking—whether on a thumb, fingers, or pacifier. This instinctive behavior soothes infants and helps them self-regulate, and it's completely normal during the first years of life. But as children grow, many San Antonio parents begin to wonder: When does this harmless habit become a problem? And how can we help our children stop before it affects their teeth?

Dental insurance terminology can feel like learning a foreign language. Copays, deductibles, coinsurance, preauthorization—these terms get tossed around during benefits enrollment, but many parents aren't entirely sure what they mean or how they affect their child's dental care.

Your daughter clings to your leg in the waiting room. Your son asks for the third time if getting his teeth cleaned will hurt. As a parent, watching your child struggle with dental anxiety can feel heartbreaking—especially when you know regular dental care is essential for their health.

Choosing the right dental home for your child is an important decision. It’s about more than checkups and cleanings — it’s about finding a place where your family feels comfortable, supported, and confident in the care provided. At Helotes Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we understand what families are looking for and want to share key things to consider when selecting a dental home.

Choosing the right orthodontic treatment for your child is a big decision, and understanding your options is the first step to making the best choice for their smile and lifestyle. At Helotes Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we offer both Invisalign and traditional metal braces, giving families flexibility based on needs, preferences, and dental goals.

Keeping your child’s smile strong starts with prevention—and one of the most effective tools in the fight against tooth decay is fluoride. At Helotes Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we offer professional fluoride treatments as part of our proactive pediatric dental care to strengthen enamel and help kids avoid cavities before they start.

Let’s explore what dental sealants are, how they work, and why they might be the perfect solution for your child.

Dental emergencies don’t come with a warning—and when they happen to your child, it can be overwhelming. From knocked-out teeth during soccer games to sudden toothaches at bedtime, it’s essential to know what to do and who to call.

Most parents know orthodontic treatment is common during the teenage years—but did you know the ideal time to evaluate your child’s smile is much earlier? According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children should have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, the jaw and facial bones are still developing, making it easier to detect potential problems early and guide growth before more complex issues arise.

In this blog, we’ll explore why retainers matter, how they prevent shifting, and why FOREVERSMILE retainers are the best option for long-term smile retention.