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Starting off with good Dental Health is so important

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child dentistry

Your Child's first visit

We will gently examine your child's teeth and gums. X-rays may be taken (to reveal decay and check on the progress of your child's permanent teeth under the gums).  We may clean your child's teeth and apply topical fluoride to help protect the teeth against decay.  We will make sure your child is receiving adequate fluoride at home.  Most important of all, we will review with you how to care for your child's teeth.

What should I tell my child about the first dental visit? 

We are asked this question many times. We suggest you prepare your child the same way you would before their first haircut or trip to the shoe store.  Your child's reaction to their first visit to the dentist may surprise you.

"First Visit" tips:

  • Take your child for a preview of the office.
  • Read books with them about going to the dentist.
  • Review with them what the dentist will be doing at the time of the first visit.
  • Speak positively about your own dental experiences.
 
 
“You do work as a wonderful team, so helpful and calming. Thank you for all your help...figuring out my appointments, doing great work, clear on billing, it’s all so appreciated.”
— Mary W.
 
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What about preventative care?

Tooth decay and children no longer have to go hand in hand.  At our office we are most concerned with all aspects of preventative care. We use the latest in dental sealant technology to protect your child's teeth.  Dental sealants are space-aged plastics that are bonded to the chewing surfaces of decay-prone back teeth.  This is just one of the ways we will set the foundation for your child's lifetime of good oral health.

Cavity prevention

Most of the time cavities are due to a diet high in sugary foods and a lack of brushing.  Limiting sugar intake and brushing regularly, of course, can help.  The longer it takes your child to chew their food and the longer the residue stays on their teeth, the greater the chances of getting cavities.

Every time someone eats, an acid reaction occurs inside their mouth as the bacteria digests the sugars.  This reaction lasts approximately 20 minutes.  During this time the acid environment can destroy the tooth structure, eventually leading to cavities.

baby brushing teeth

Tips for cavity prevention

  • Limit frequency of meals and snacks.
  • Encourage brushing, flossing and rinsing.
  • Watch what your child drinks.
  • Avoid giving your child sticky foods.
  • Make treats part of meals.
  • Choose nutritious snacks.


Permanent teeth

The first baby teeth that come into the mouth are the two bottom front teeth.  You will notice this when your baby is about 6-8 months old.  Next to follow will be the 4 upper front teeth and the remainder of your baby's teeth will appear periodically.  They will usually appear in pairs along the side of the jaw until the child is about 2 1/2 years old.  At around 2 1/2 years old your child should have all 20 teeth.  Between the ages of 5 and 6 the first permanent teeth will begin to erupt.  Some of the permanent teeth replace baby teeth and some don't.  Don't worry if some teeth are a few months early or late as all children are different.

Baby teeth are important as they not only hold space for permanent teeth but they are important to chewing, biting, speech and appearance.  For this reason it is important to maintain a healthy diet and daily hygiene.