
The Difference Pediatric Dentistry Makes
Our goal is to provide children with a solid foundation in dental care, fostering a positive and trusting relationship between the dental team and the child. We aim to make each visit a fun, educational experience that encourages kids to take an active role in maintaining their oral health. Establishing these habits early sets the stage for a lifetime of dental care they’ll enjoy.
Pediatric dentistry starts from the first visit, with age-appropriate cleanings and care throughout all the stages of a child’s dental development. From the eruption of their first teeth to the loss of baby teeth, and through milestones like fillings or orthodontic care, we support children in building good dental habits that last.
Your Child’s First Appointment
Our top priority, regardless of age, is to ensure your child’s health, comfort, and satisfaction. In pediatric dentistry, we pay extra attention to the unique challenges younger patients face while in the dental chair. We monitor key oral health milestones specific to children and engage with your child in a way that helps them feel secure and involved.
Show and Tell
Some children are eager to explore and ask many questions, while others may feel shy or anxious about new experiences. Our goal is for every child to feel safe, relaxed, and positive about their visit. We begin each appointment by discussing their thoughts and concerns in kid-friendly terms. We explain what we’ll be doing and invite them to ask any questions, helping them feel at ease.
Gentle Examination
We carefully examine your child’s gums, tongue, teeth, and overall oral health, with special attention to children-specific health markers. This allows us to track the development of their primary and adult teeth. Our exam helps identify areas of concern and any potential trouble spots that may need extra care at home or during future visits.
Keeping You in the Loop
After the examination, we’ll offer advice for both your child and you as a parent or guardian. If needed, we’ll provide tips for brushing hard-to-reach spots at home. We’ll also inform you of any areas we’ll be monitoring and let you know what to watch for between appointments. Together, we make a great team!
Why Is Children’s Dental Care So Important?
Some people question the significance of children’s dental care because primary teeth eventually fall out. While it’s true that baby teeth will give way to adult teeth, maintaining healthy primary teeth is crucial for a variety of reasons.
Poor Dental Health Hurts
Children are just as susceptible to tooth decay, sensitivity, infection, and gum disease as adults. Without a clear understanding of what’s “normal,” children often tolerate discomfort, but they still experience pain. If your child avoids hot and cold foods, chewy items, or consistently chews on one side of their mouth, they may be dealing with dental sensitivity or pain.
Baby Teeth Set the Stage for Adult Teeth
When a baby tooth falls out, its root is absorbed, and the space left behind guides the eruption of the adult tooth. Premature loss of a baby tooth can lead to issues like crowding or misalignment of adult teeth. Keeping baby teeth strong and healthy, along with the surrounding gums and tissue, ensures the best foundation for adult teeth.
The Cornerstone of Confidence
A full, healthy set of teeth is essential for speech development and self-expression. Dental issues or discomfort can hinder a child’s ability to communicate or affect their confidence in social settings, potentially impacting peer relationships.
Good Eating Habits for Growing Bodies
Children need a balanced variety of foods, but dental discomfort can make it difficult for them to enjoy certain textures or types of food. Avoiding crunchy or chewy foods can lead to lifelong eating habits that may negatively impact their nutrition and development.
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 dentistry focuses on the dental care of children from infancy through their teenage years. Pediatric dentists are specifically trained to address the many changes that occur in a child’s mouth as they transition to adult teeth, ensuring proper oral health at every stage.
Most children begin cutting their first teeth around 6 months of age. It’s recommended to schedule a dental visit by the age of 1 or within six months of the first tooth’s appearance. If you notice any signs of discomfort or suspect something is wrong, it’s important to book an appointment without delay. It’s never too late for a first dental visit.
Pediatric dentists provide care for patients up until the age of majority, typically 18 years old. They specialize in treating children, from infants as young as 6 months to young adults, ensuring proper care throughout the stages of growth.
Similar to adults, toddlers should generally visit the dentist every 6 months. However, this can vary based on your child’s individual needs or dentist’s recommendations. Some patients opt for visits every 3 months or every 8 months. It’s important not to go longer than a year between appointments, and if your child is experiencing any pain or discomfort, don’t wait—book an appointment right away.
