Hurst Pediatric Dentistry

Hurst Pediatric Dentistry Joby Hurst DMD and Hurst Pediatric Dentistry provides a fun, child friendly environment for dental appointments.

He will work with you and your child in the most patient and effective manner.

Toothbrushing can feel like a sensory overload for some kids—but small adjustments can make a big difference.Here are 4 ...
12/19/2025

Toothbrushing can feel like a sensory overload for some kids—but small adjustments can make a big difference.
Here are 4 tips that help:

– Try a silicone finger brush instead of a regular toothbrush
– Let them pick the toothpaste flavor—mint isn’t for everyone!
– Use a timer with music or lights to make brushing fun
– Brush together in the mirror—turn it into a dance or countdown game

Progress is progress. Even 30 seconds of brushing is a win worth celebrating!

Fluoride is one of the most important ingredients in protecting your child’s teeth from decay. It works by strengthening...
12/17/2025

Fluoride is one of the most important ingredients in protecting your child’s teeth from decay. It works by strengthening tooth enamel, which helps create a shield against the bacteria and acids that cause cavities. When used daily, fluoride toothpaste not only fights germs but also builds a long-lasting defense for healthier smiles. Starting this habit early gives kids the tools they need for lifelong oral health. Parents can feel confident knowing this simple step makes a big difference in keeping smiles strong and bright.

Cleaning your child's teeth doesn’t have to be a nightly tug-of-war. We know toddlers love to test boundaries, and brush...
12/16/2025

Cleaning your child's teeth doesn’t have to be a nightly tug-of-war. We know toddlers love to test boundaries, and brushing can be one of the biggest challenges! But with a little creativity and consistency, you can turn brush time into a moment you both enjoy.

Here are 4 fun, fuss-free ways to make brushing feel less like a chore and more like an adventure:

🎵 Make it musical: Sing a 2-minute song together (like the ABCs twice or your child’s favorite nursery rhyme).

📱 Use a brushing timer or app: Turn on a brushing app with music and animations to keep them engaged! Visuals and timers help kids understand how long to brush, and they love “beating the clock.”

🪥 Let them choose their tools: Giving your child the power to pick their toothbrush—especially one shaped like a dinosaur or superhero—makes them more excited to use it.

🧼 Use the right amount of toothpaste: For toddlers under 3, a rice-sized smear of toothpaste is perfect. Kids over 3? Go with a pea-sized amount. Keep it fun and safe!

Establish brushing as a fun family ritual, something they look forward to, not dread. You can brush together, turn it into a game, or reward consistency with a sticker chart. Remember, the goal isn’t just clean teeth, it’s building habits that stick for life. With some patience and playfulness, brushing battles can become bonding moments. 💙

Strong teeth and bones don’t just happen overnight—they’re built with the right nutrients. Calcium plays a key role in k...
12/15/2025

Strong teeth and bones don’t just happen overnight—they’re built with the right nutrients. Calcium plays a key role in keeping teeth sturdy and gums healthy, while other vitamins like D, A, and C support overall oral development. A balanced diet rich in dairy, leafy greens, and colorful fruits helps children grow with confidence and resilience. These nutrients work together to protect against decay and support long-term dental health. By making smart food choices, parents can set their children on the path to a lifetime of healthy smiles.

“Stick to the basics, hold on to your family and friends – they will never go out of fashion.” – Niki Taylor
12/14/2025

“Stick to the basics, hold on to your family and friends – they will never go out of fashion.” – Niki Taylor

Brushing is a great start, but it’s only part of the full routine your smile needs. Flossing reaches the tight spaces be...
12/13/2025

Brushing is a great start, but it’s only part of the full routine your smile needs. Flossing reaches the tight spaces between teeth where brushes can’t go, removing food particles and plaque before they cause problems. Mouth rinse adds another layer of protection by helping to wash away bacteria and freshen breath. Together, these tools boost the effectiveness of daily brushing and keep smiles healthier. Teaching kids to add floss and rinse to their routine creates strong habits that will last a lifetime.

A mouth injury can be alarming, especially when there’s bleeding. It’s easy to feel panicked in the moment, but try to r...
12/12/2025

A mouth injury can be alarming, especially when there’s bleeding. It’s easy to feel panicked in the moment, but try to remember that many soft tissue injuries, like cuts or scrapes to the gums, lips, or cheeks, look worse than they are. With the right approach, you can help your child feel more comfortable and prevent things from getting worse. Here’s what to do if your child experiences a soft tissue injury in the mouth:

1️⃣ Stay calm
Your child will feel reassured by your calm presence, so take a deep breath and stay steady.

2️⃣ Gently rinse with warm water
Clean the area carefully with warm water to remove debris.

3️⃣ Apply pressure
Press a clean cloth or gauze to the injury for 10–15 minutes to stop the bleeding.

4️⃣ Cold compress for swelling
Use a cold compress on the outside of the mouth to reduce swelling and discomfort.

What to do next:
If the bleeding doesn’t stop after 15–20 minutes of applying pressure, or if your child is in severe pain, it’s essential to seek medical attention right away. The same applies if the injury appears to be deep or if your child is having trouble moving their mouth or speaking. Immediate care can prevent infection or further complications, especially if there’s damage to the teeth or gums.

Dental visits can feel overwhelming for some children, especially those with anxiety, special health conditions, or spec...
12/10/2025

Dental visits can feel overwhelming for some children, especially those with anxiety, special health conditions, or special needs. Thankfully, there are safe sedation options that make treatment more comfortable and stress-free. Options like laughing gas, oral sedation, or even general anesthesia provide different levels of relaxation depending on the child’s needs. Knowing these tools are available helps parents feel reassured and helps children receive the care they need without fear. With the right approach, every child can feel calm, safe, and cared for during their dental visit.

Prevention is key when it comes to dental health, and it’s never too early to start teaching your kids good habits that ...
12/09/2025

Prevention is key when it comes to dental health, and it’s never too early to start teaching your kids good habits that will last a lifetime!

🦷 Why brushing and flossing matter:

– Brushing twice a day helps remove plaque and bacteria that can lead to cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues.

– Flossing daily removes food particles and plaque between the teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach—preventing buildup that can cause discomfort and oral health problems.

– Regular brushing and flossing keep teeth strong and healthy, making them more resistant to injury from bumps, falls, or rough play.

Tip: Set a routine with your kids—make brushing and flossing a fun and consistent part of their day. You could even use a timer to make sure they brush for the recommended 2 minutes!

Keeping up with good dental habits will reduce the risk of needing emergency dental visits, saving your family time, money, and discomfort in the future.

Visiting the dentist regularly isn’t just about cleanings—it’s about prevention. Routine checkups allow dentists to spot...
12/08/2025

Visiting the dentist regularly isn’t just about cleanings—it’s about prevention. Routine checkups allow dentists to spot small concerns before they become larger, more costly issues. From cavity detection to monitoring growth and development, these visits play a big role in protecting your child’s smile. Regular appointments also help children feel comfortable and confident at the dentist, making each visit easier. Parents who make dental checkups part of their family routine are investing in healthier, brighter smiles for the future.

“Ohana means family and family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten.” – Lilo & Stitch
12/07/2025

“Ohana means family and family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten.” – Lilo & Stitch

Protecting your child’s smile goes beyond daily brushing and flossing. Dental sealants act as a barrier against cavities...
12/06/2025

Protecting your child’s smile goes beyond daily brushing and flossing. Dental sealants act as a barrier against cavities by covering the grooves where food and bacteria often hide. Mouthguards are equally important, especially for active kids who play sports or enjoy rough-and-tumble activities. These simple tools can prevent chips, cracks, and other injuries that might otherwise cause pain or long-term damage. By combining good daily habits with extra protection, parents can help ensure their child’s teeth stay safe, strong, and healthy through every adventure.

Address

19 Inverness Center Pkwy #250
Birmingham, AL
35242

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm

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