The Difference Pediatric Dentistry Makes
Our goal is to start children off right with kid-friendly dental care that fosters a positive relationship between the dental team and the little patient. We aim to make kids feel engaged and empowered in caring for their oral health, setting the tone for a lifetime of dental care they look forward to.
Pediatric dental care achieves this from the first appointment through routine cleanings and every milestone your child reaches. We’re here to support them as they discover their new teeth, lose baby teeth, grow adult teeth, and experience common events like getting a filling or starting orthodontic treatment.
Your Child’s First Appointment
For patients of all ages, our main goal is your health, comfort, and satisfaction. In pediatric dentistry, we pay special attention to the challenges young patients face when sitting in the chair. We’ll monitor children-specific oral health markers and milestones while communicating with your child in a kid-friendly way that makes them feel safe and engaged.
Show and Tell
Some kids are curious explorers with lots of questions, while others might feel shy or anxious. We aim to make every child feel comfortable and positive about their dental visit. We’ll start by having a conversation in simple, kid-friendly terms, listening to their thoughts and concerns, explaining what we plan to do, and answering any questions they may have.
Gentle Examination
With a focus on children-specific oral health, we will gently examine your child’s gums, tongue, teeth, and overall health. We’ll keep an eye on both primary and adult teeth, identifying any areas of concern or spots that may need extra attention at home or during future visits.
Keeping You in the Loop
After the exam, we’ll provide advice for both the child and their parent or guardian. We may share tips for brushing tricky spots at home and inform you of any areas we plan to monitor. Together, we’ll make sure your child’s dental health stays on track!
Why Is Children’s Dental Care So Important?
You might be surprised to know that some people wonder why children’s dental care matters, given that primary (baby) teeth eventually fall out. However, the state of your child’s dental health has lasting consequences, even though these teeth are temporary.
Poor Dental Health Hurts
Just like adults, children are at risk of tooth decay, sensitivity, infection, and gum disease. Without a proper frame of reference, children may normalize pain and discomfort but still experience it. If your child avoids hot or cold foods, chewy foods, or chews only on one side, they could be trying to cope with dental pain or sensitivity.
Baby Teeth Set the Stage for Adult Teeth
As baby teeth fall out, the root is reabsorbed, and the space guides the adult teeth. If a baby tooth is lost prematurely, it can lead to crowding or crooked adult teeth. Maintaining strong, healthy baby teeth and gums gives adult teeth their best start.
The Cornerstone of Confidence
A healthy set of teeth is essential for children learning to speak and smile. Dental issues can affect their ability to express themselves and may impact how they interact with peers.
Good Eating Habits for Growing Bodies
Children need a variety of foods for healthy growth, but dental discomfort can make eating challenging. Children may avoid certain textures, chew on one side of their mouth, or refuse food altogether if they’re in pain. Early dental care ensures they can enjoy a wide range of foods while maintaining proper eating habits.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pediatric dentists specialize in dental care for children from infancy through their teenage years. They have the experience and training to manage the various changes in children’s mouths as they transition from baby teeth to permanent adult teeth.
Your child will typically begin to erupt their first teeth around 6 months of age. It is recommended to bring your child to the dentist by age 1 or within 6 months of their first tooth. If you notice any discomfort or suspect something might be wrong, schedule an appointment promptly. It’s never too late for a child to have their first dental visit.
Pediatric dentists specialize in caring for patients up to 18 years of age. Once a child reaches adulthood, they typically transition to a general dentist, though some may continue seeing a pediatric dentist if their care needs require it.
The general recommendation for toddlers is to visit the dentist every 6 months, just like adults. Depending on your child’s needs, some families opt for checkups every 3 to 8 months. It’s important not to wait more than a year between visits. If your child is experiencing discomfort or pain, schedule an appointment right away.
It’s common for children to feel nervous about dental visits. Talk to your child beforehand, explaining what to expect in a positive, calm way. We also use kid-friendly language and ensure they feel comfortable throughout the visit.
Yes, cavities can develop in baby teeth, and untreated decay can affect permanent teeth. Proper oral hygiene, including brushing and regular checkups, is essential to maintaining the health of your child’s teeth.
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