CHILDRENS DENTISTRY
YOUR CHILD'S FIRST VISIT
The first “regular” dental visit should take place about six months after the first baby tooth erupts, which usually coincides with your child’s first birthday. The first visit is generally short and involves a visual examination and minimal to no treatment. We may ask you to sit in the dental chair and hold your child during the exam.
We will gently examine your child’s teeth and gums. The size and shape of their jaws and position of their teeth will be assessed. X-rays may be taken for older children to diagnose decay and check on the growth and development of your child’s permanent teeth under the gums.
We may clean your child’s teeth and apply a fluoride varnish to protect their teeth against decay. We will discuss at-home oral hygiene practices and suggest best habits to adopt regarding brushing and flossing frequency and diet.
When visits to the dentist take place early and happen on a regular basis it allows for early detection of potential problems so we can aid in prevention instead of playing catch-up on cavities and orthodontic situations that have already started to worsen. Most importantly, it allows for your child to begin to establish a friendly and safe connection between themselves, the dentist and the dental office from an early age.
HERE ARE SOME "FIRST VISIT" TIPS:
- Take your child for a “preview” of the office.
- Read books about going to the dentist.
- Practice opening big and counting their teeth.
- Speak positively about your own dental experiences.
DURING YOUR FIRST VISIT THE DENTIST WILL:
- Examine your mouth, teeth and gums and demonstrate how to clean them.
- Discuss habits like thumb sucking or pacifiers
- Advise fluoride application if risk level for cavities is high.
- Suggest a schedule for regular dental visits.
Learn More about Childrens Oral Care
Baby teeth typically start appearing at 6-8 months, with all 20 usually in by age 2 1/2. Permanent teeth begin emerging around 5-6 years old. They’re important for chewing, speech, and holding space for permanent teeth. Encourage healthy habits for your child’s dental well-being.
Baby teeth typically start appearing at 6-8 months, with all 20 usually in by age 2 1/2. Permanent teeth begin emerging around 5-6 years old. They’re important for chewing, speech, and holding space for permanent teeth. Encourage healthy habits for your child’s dental well-being.
We prioritize preventive care to combat tooth decay in children. With advanced dental sealant technology, we shield their teeth from decay. It’s part of our commitment to laying the groundwork for your child’s lifelong oral health.
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 acidic environment can destroy the tooth structure and eventually leading to cavities.
When a person’s diet consists of high carbohydrates and sugars, they tend to have thicker saliva, which in turn allows more of the acid-producing bacteria that can cause cavities.
- 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.
