Long Beach's Trusted Pediatric Dental Specialists
Our team of board-certified pediatric dentists creates a calm, kid-friendly environment where children in Long Beach grow up with healthy, confident smiles. From first visits to teen care, we're with your family every step.
(562) 377-1375
Dr. Cortez
DDS
At Pediatric Dental Specialists in Long Beach, California, Dr. Cortez and the team believe that a healthy smile is a cornerstone of your child's overall well-being. From the very first visit, every detail is designed to put young patients at ease — including a personalized storybook featuring your child's own name, making that first appointment feel like a special adventure rather than something to worry about.
Dr. Cortez leads a qualified, compassionate team dedicated to guiding children toward optimal oral health in a nurturing and friendly environment. Whether it's a routine checkup or a child's very first dental experience, the goal is always the same: to build lasting trust, healthy habits, and confident smiles that grow alongside your child.
Comprehensive Dental Care Designed for Growing Smiles
From baby's first tooth to teen years, we provide gentle, specialized care at every stage.
Straighten your child's teeth comfortably with orthodontic solutions tailored to growing smiles.
Learn moreProtect your infant's earliest teeth with gentle cleanings and expert guidance for parents.
Learn moreRoutine checkups keep cavities away and build lifelong healthy oral hygiene habits for kids.
Learn moreGet caring guidance to prevent thumb or pacifier habits from affecting your child's dental development.
Learn morePrompt, compassionate care for knocked-out teeth, toothaches, and other urgent dental situations.
Learn moreA welcoming, stress-free introduction to the dentist that sets your child up for a lifetime of confidence.
Learn moreStrengthen your child's enamel and significantly reduce cavity risk with safe, professional fluoride treatments.
Learn moreEarly intervention protects your child's gums and keeps their smile healthy as they grow.
Learn moreYour Questions About Kids' Dental Care in Long Beach, Answered
From your child's very first visit to ongoing treatment, Dr. Cortez and the team at Pediatric Dental Specialists are here to help you feel confident every step of the way.
Scheduling
How do I schedule my child's first appointment at Pediatric Dental Specialists?
You can call our Long Beach office directly at (562) 377-1375 to book an appointment with Dr. Cortez. No referral is required, though we do accept them. We recommend calling as early as possible so we can find a time that works best for your family.
What should I do if my child has a dental emergency?
If your child experiences a knocked-out tooth, severe toothache, or dental injury, call us right away at (562) 377-1375. Pediatric Dental Specialists provides emergency dental care, and our team will guide you on next steps over the phone while we arrange to see your child as quickly as possible. Do not wait — prompt care can make a significant difference in the outcome.
Insurance & Payment
Does Pediatric Dental Specialists accept dental insurance?
We work with many dental insurance plans and encourage you to call our Long Beach office at (562) 377-1375 so our team can verify your child's specific coverage before the appointment. We are happy to help you understand your benefits and what to expect regarding any out-of-pocket costs.
First Visit
When should I bring my baby in for their first dental visit?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling your child's first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth appearing — whichever comes first. Dr. Cortez will examine your baby's emerging teeth, discuss proper oral hygiene for infants, and answer any questions you have about caring for your little one's smile.
What happens during a child's first dental exam at your Long Beach office?
During the first visit, Dr. Cortez will gently examine your child's teeth, gums, and jaw development in a calm, kid-friendly environment. We will also perform a professional cleaning if appropriate for your child's age, discuss fluoride and diet, and address any habits like pacifier use or digit sucking. Our goal is to make the experience positive so your child feels comfortable coming back.
Treatment
Is fluoride treatment safe for my child, and does my child need it?
Fluoride is a safe, proven mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities in children. Dr. Cortez will assess your child's individual cavity risk and recommend fluoride treatments as part of their routine dental exams and cleanings when appropriate. We use amounts carefully calibrated for your child's age and weight.
At what age can my child get braces, and does Dr. Cortez offer orthodontic treatment?
Yes, Pediatric Dental Specialists offers braces as part of our comprehensive care for kids and teens in Long Beach. The right age for braces varies by child — Dr. Cortez will evaluate your child's tooth and jaw development, typically around age 7 for an initial orthodontic assessment, and recommend treatment timing based on their specific needs.
Aftercare
How should my child care for their teeth after a dental procedure?
After treatment, Dr. Cortez will provide specific aftercare instructions tailored to the procedure your child received. In general, children should avoid hard or sticky foods immediately after certain treatments, maintain their regular brushing and flossing routine, and attend follow-up visits as recommended. If you notice unusual swelling, pain, or other concerns after leaving our Long Beach office, call us at (562) 377-1375 right away.
Give Your Child a Smile They'll Love Forever
Our Long Beach team makes every visit calm, fun, and stress-free. Booking takes less than two minutes.
No referral needed · Same-week appointments available