We provide all phases of pediatric dental care beginning with educating the parent and the child on tooth development, diet, and dental habits and how all contribute to your child’s dental future. We also offer behavior management options to help your child during more extensive treatment.
Dr. Russell (known by her patients as Dr. Lex) believes that every child should have positive dental experiences that formulate positive oral habits. It is for this reason that Dr. Lex is so passionate about pediatric dentistry. Dr. Lex is a graduate of Xavier University of Louisiana and received her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Howard University. Upon graduating she returned to New Orleans because of the positive impact the city has had on her life. She completed her specialty training in Pediatric Dentistry at the University of Las Vegas, Nevada, and is ecstatic to bring the most current technology and techniques in behavioral management, conscious sedation, aesthetic pediatric dentistry and trauma management back to the children of the city she loves. Dr Lex understands a child’s hesitation with the dentist and works to allay each child’s anxieties to make every visit a positive experience. Dr. Lex is a board member for Breakthrough NOLA, and a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and American Dental Association. In her spare time she enjoys spending precious moments with her family.
Dr. Lex, supported by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, recommends that a dental home be established by a child’s first birthday. The first visit is an opportunity to establish care, meet the dental team, and familiarize yourself with the office. There will be conversations about your child’s medical history, habits (which may include sleep habits, finger-sucking habits, pacifier usage, etc), diet, and depending on the age, teething, baby bottle tooth decay, infant feeding practices, and more. It is important to relay any dental anxieties that you as the parent may have and it is encouraged to refrain from phrases that may incite fears in the child. If the child is old enough, prior to the 1 st visit, it is encouraged that the parent has a conversation with their child about what to expect. There are books that go over what to expect at the dental office. This way the child will feel more prepared about what to expect. It is important to refrain from words such as “needle”, “shot”, “pull”, “drill” or “hurt”.
The first visit often lasts 30 to 45 minutes. Depending on your child's age, the visit may include a full exam of the teeth, jaws, bite, gums, and oral tissues to check growth and development. If needed, your child may also have a gentle cleaning. This includes polishing teeth and removing any plaque, tartar, and stains. The dentist may show you and your child proper home cleaning such as flossing, and advise you on the need for fluoride. Depending on your child’s age, x-rays may be recommended to diagnose decay. X-rays are also used to see if the root of a jammed baby tooth may be affecting an adult tooth.
In comparison to a general dentist, a pediatric dentist is a specialist in identifying, treating, maintaining and guiding the growth and development of children from infancy through adolescence. The pediatric specialist has completed an extra 2 years of training to prepare for the individual needs of children, including those with special healthcare needs. Board certification credentials is the most prestigious designation awarded within this field. We work closely with pediatricians, ENTs, lactation consultants, and other dental specialists in order to provide the most comprehensive care for a child’s development.
Please read some of our reviews from our happy kidz and parents! These reviews confirm just how amazing Dr. Lex is!