Pediatric/Children’s Dentistry

Specialized Care for Little Smiles

We strive to make a child's initial dental visit a pleasant experience. While children do not inherently fear the dentist, they may be apprehensive about the unknown. Our office takes extra care to use comforting and straightforward language when explaining each procedure. Our goal is to ensure both you and your child feel comfortable as soon as you step into our office. The more information you and your child have about the first visit, the more at ease you will be.

It is crucial to introduce your child to the dentist before their first visit. This can be made easier by engaging in activities like reading and coloring. These activities not only familiarize children with what to expect during their dental visit but also associate good oral habits with fun and enjoyment. To support parents and teachers in this effort, we have curated a list of our favorite children's books and downloadable coloring sheets that center around oral health and the dentist.

First Dental Visit

It is crucial for children to have their first dental visit by the age of one. It is essential to provide proper dental care and establish good oral hygiene habits as soon as their teeth start to emerge, which typically occurs between 6 to 12 months of age.

Discovering the wonders of your teeth can be an enjoyable experience!

Regular checkups can help prevent tooth decay

Tooth decay occurs when sugars in your mouth transform into acid, leading to the deterioration of your teeth. Children are particularly vulnerable to tooth decay due to their lack of consistent and effective oral hygiene practices. However, by adopting proper brushing and flossing routines and regularly visiting the dentist, tooth decay can be prevented.

It is important for your child to have regular dental cleanings and checkups every six months. We suggest getting fluoride treatments twice a year in addition to cleanings to maintain strong teeth. It is also recommended to have tooth sealants applied to your child's teeth as they effectively seal the deep grooves, preventing decay in hard-to-reach areas. These sealants typically last for several years and will be monitored during your child's regular checkups.

When New Teeth Arrive

Your child's first set of primary or baby teeth will start to come in between 6 and 12 months of age and will continue to emerge until around age three. During this period, your child's gums may feel sensitive and painful. To provide relief, we suggest gently massaging the gums with a clean finger or a cool, damp cloth. Another option is to use a teething ring. Once your child has finished teething, they will have a total of 20 primary teeth.

The primary teeth of your child are naturally lost at different stages during their childhood, while their permanent teeth start appearing at the age of six and continue to emerge until they reach 21 years old. Adults typically have 28 permanent teeth, but if we include wisdom teeth, the total count goes up to 32.

Oral hygiene is crucial for dental health.

To ensure your child's teeth are healthy, make sure to regularly check them every two weeks for any signs of decay such as lines or discoloration. Keep in mind that sugary foods and drinks can harm new teeth, so it's important for your child to brush their teeth after eating or drinking. For optimal oral hygiene, we suggest brushing four times a day: after breakfast, after lunch, after dinner, and before bedtime.

Make brushing enjoyable for your child by starting as soon as their first tooth appears. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a small amount of toothpaste when brushing their tooth. If your child is under two years old, avoid using fluoride toothpaste unless recommended by a dentist or healthcare professional. It's a good idea to go over the correct tooth brushing techniques with your child.

Your dentist will advise you on when to start flossing as it is an essential part of maintaining good oral hygiene. If you observe any signs of decay, it is crucial to contact your dentist promptly.

Pediatric Dental FAQs

Below, you will find a list of commonly asked questions regarding the best practices for maintaining children's dental health, along with our corresponding answers.

All dental specialists, including pediatric dentists, orthodontists, oral surgeons, and others, start by completing dental school. After that, they undergo several years of additional specialized training. In the case of pediatric dentistry, your doctor has acquired extensive knowledge and experience in treating infants, children, and adolescents. Pediatric dentists have a passion for working with children and bring their expertise in childhood development and behavior to each patient. Our office is specifically designed for young visitors, with a staff and environment that create a friendly and comfortable atmosphere for children.

Typically, the initial appointment is brief and straightforward. Our main objective is to acquaint ourselves with your child and provide you with essential information regarding dental care. The dentist will examine your child's teeth to assess their positioning and health, as well as identify any potential issues with the gums and jaw. If required, a minor cleaning may be performed. Additionally, we will address any queries you may have about maintaining your child's dental hygiene as they grow, and furnish you with informative materials containing useful tips that you can refer to at home.

To ensure your child has a successful first visit to our office, it is crucial to maintain a positive attitude. Children are perceptive and can sense any apprehensions or negative comments from adults about going to the dentist. This can lead to them fearing an unpleasant experience and behaving accordingly. To alleviate any concerns, show your child the pictures of our office and staff on our website. Explain to them the importance of maintaining healthy teeth and gums, and reassure them that the dentist will assist in achieving this. It is important to remember that our dentist is specially trained to handle fears and anxiety, and our staff excels at making children feel comfortable during treatment.

Your child's first teeth, although temporary, are crucial for their development. These primary teeth assist in speaking, smiling, and chewing correctly. They also maintain space in the jaw for permanent teeth. If a tooth is lost prematurely due to damage or decay, neighboring teeth may shift and cause permanent teeth to grow crooked or in the wrong position. Additionally, the overall health of your child is influenced by the oral health of their teeth and gums.

Once your child's teeth start to come in, it is safe to introduce toothpaste on their toothbrush. However, it is important to use only a small amount for each brushing. For children under two years old, it is recommended to choose a toothpaste without fluoride as excessive fluoride can be harmful to young children. After brushing, always encourage your child to rinse and spit out the toothpaste to develop a lifelong habit that will be necessary when they transition to fluoride toothpaste. It is common for children to want to swallow toothpaste, but consuming too much fluoride toothpaste can lead to tooth discoloration. Until your child is around six or seven years old, it is best to brush their teeth for them until they are ready to take on the responsibility themselves.

Please ensure that your child brushes their teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day. It is also crucial to floss daily as it can reach areas between the teeth that brushing alone cannot. Consult your pediatric dentist regarding a fluoride supplement that strengthens tooth enamel and reduces decay. Encourage a healthy diet by avoiding sugary foods and drinks, limiting snacking, and maintaining a balanced eating routine. Lastly, schedule regular appointments for us to assess your child's dental health and provide professional cleanings.

It is advisable to have X-rays taken when your child is around two or three years old. The initial X-ray set will include basic images of the front upper and lower teeth, which will help your child become familiar with the procedure. Once the baby teeth in the back start touching each other, it is recommended to have regular X-rays taken at least once a year. Around the age of six, permanent teeth begin to emerge, and X-rays are essential to ensure the health and proper alignment of your child's teeth and jaw. If your child is at a higher risk of dental issues, we may suggest having X-rays taken at an earlier age.