The Impact of Pediatric Dentistry
Our aim is to give children a strong start with child-centered dental care that fosters a positive connection between the dental team and young patients. We strive to make dental visits engaging and empowering, encouraging kids to take charge of their oral health. Establishing joyful and healthy habits early on sets the stage for a lifetime of dental care that children actually look forward to.
Pediatric dental care achieves this from the very first visit, through enjoyable routine cleanings, and at every developmental stage. We are dedicated to supporting young patients as they explore their new teeth, lose their baby teeth, grow in their adult teeth, and face common experiences such as getting fillings (which are less intimidating than they seem!) or starting orthodontic treatment as they grow older.
Why is Children’s Dental Care So Important?
You might be surprised to learn that some people question the importance of children’s dental care, assuming that primary teeth are temporary and not worth the effort. By age 3, most children have their baby teeth, which start to be replaced by adult teeth around age 6. Apart from wisdom teeth, most children have all their permanent teeth by their early teens. However, the health of these primary teeth plays a crucial role in their overall development, influencing long-term dental health and well-being.
Poor Dental Health Hurts
Children can suffer from tooth decay, sensitivity, infections, and gum issues just like adults. Even though they might not always communicate their discomfort, it doesn’t mean they’re not experiencing it. If you see that your child is shying away from hot or cold foods, avoids chewy items, or only chews on one side of their mouth, they could be trying to manage dental pain or sensitivity.
Baby Teeth Set the Stage for Adult Teeth
When a baby tooth falls out, its root is gradually absorbed, creating a space that guides the incoming adult tooth. If a baby tooth is removed too early, it can lead to issues like crowding or misalignment of the adult teeth. Preserving strong, healthy baby teeth and supporting tissues helps ensure that adult teeth emerge in the best possible condition.
The Cornerstone of Confidence
A complete set of healthy teeth is crucial for children as they learn to speak and smile. Early dental issues can affect their ability to express themselves and impact their social interactions. Healthy teeth support their confidence and social development from a young age.
Good Eating Habits for Growing Bodies
A diverse diet is important for children’s growth, but it can be tough for parents of picky eaters. Dental discomfort or pain may lead children to avoid certain foods, such as those that are crunchy or chewy. This can result in poor eating habits, such as chewing on only one side of the mouth or eating less overall, potentially impacting their nutritional intake.
Your Child’s First Appointment
Our primary focus for patients of all ages is ensuring their health, comfort, and satisfaction. In pediatric dentistry, we pay particular attention to the unique challenges young patients encounter during their visits. We monitor key oral health indicators and developmental milestones specific to children, and we communicate with your child in a friendly and reassuring manner to help them feel secure and involved.
Show and Tell
Every child approaches new experiences differently—some are curious and ask many questions, while others might be shy or anxious. Our goal is to ensure every child feels safe and positive about their dental visit. We start each appointment by discussing their thoughts and concerns in a way they can understand. We also explain what will happen during the visit and answer any questions they may have.
Gentle Examination
We carefully examine your child’s gums, tongue, teeth, and overall oral health, focusing on specific markers relevant to children. Our examination helps us track the development of both primary and adult teeth, identifying any areas that may need extra care at home or in future visits.
Keeping You in the Loop
After the exam, we provide guidance for both the child and their parent or guardian. This may include tips for brushing hard-to-reach areas and information about any issues we plan to monitor. We’ll also inform you of what to watch for between appointments. Working together, we can ensure the best care for your child!
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 involves specialized care for children from their earliest years through adolescence. Pediatric dentists are skilled in handling the various developmental stages and oral health changes that occur as children transition from primary to permanent teeth.
It’s recommended to schedule your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or within 6 months of their first tooth appearing, which usually happens around 6 months of age. If you suspect any issues or if your child shows signs of discomfort, it’s important to arrange an appointment sooner. Early dental visits are beneficial at any stage.
Pediatric dentists are dedicated to the care of patients from infancy through their teenage years, typically up until the age of 18. They are specially trained to address the dental needs of growing children and adolescents.
Toddlers should have dental check-ups every 6 months, similar to adults. However, some children may need more frequent visits, such as every 3 to 8 months, based on their specific needs and circumstances. Ensure that no more than a year passes between visits, and address any signs of dental discomfort immediately by scheduling an appointment.
To make dental visits more comfortable for your child, start by having open conversations about what to expect in a positive and reassuring way. You can also help by explaining the visit in simple, friendly terms and addressing any questions or concerns they may have. Bringing them to the office for a quick visit before the actual appointment can help them become familiar with the environment.
If your child is avoiding foods due to dental discomfort, it’s important to address the issue promptly. Schedule a dental check-up to identify and treat any underlying problems. In the meantime, encourage a balanced diet with softer, nutritious foods that are easier on their teeth. Avoiding foods that exacerbate discomfort can help prevent further issues while you wait for a professional evaluation.
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