
The Difference Pediatric Dentistry Makes
From the very first visit, we offer dental care that’s designed to be engaging and fun for children, helping them feel at ease during routine cleanings and celebrating each new development in their dental journey. We take great joy in guiding them through the process of growing their teeth, losing baby teeth, and experiencing key moments like receiving a filling (which is far less intimidating than it sounds!) or considering orthodontic treatment as they get older.
Our goal is to provide a dental experience that fosters a positive relationship between children and their dental team. This supportive approach encourages kids to be active participants in their oral care, helping them build healthy habits early that will last a lifetime, making dental visits something they can look forward to.
Why is Children’s Dental Care So Important?
Early dental health plays a significant role in a child’s overall well-being and sets the foundation for healthy teeth later in life. While primary teeth are temporary, they are essential for a child’s growth and development, including speech, eating, and guiding the alignment of adult teeth. Although some may question the importance of caring for baby teeth since they eventually fall out, these early teeth play a crucial role in shaping the future of permanent teeth. By age 3, most children have a full set of baby teeth, which start to fall out around age 6, with adult teeth usually emerging by the early teenage years, except for wisdom teeth. The condition of baby teeth impacts the health of permanent teeth and a child’s overall health as they grow.
Poor Dental Health Hurts
Children are just as susceptible to tooth decay, infections, sensitivity, and gum disease as adults, but they might not always express their discomfort. They may avoid hot or cold foods, chew only on one side, or steer clear of chewy foods, all of which could be signs of pain. Even if they lack a point of comparison, children can grow accustomed to discomfort while still feeling its effects.
Baby Teeth Set the Stage for Adult Teeth
Caring for baby teeth and gums is vital for the proper eruption of adult teeth. If a baby tooth is lost too soon, it can lead to problems like misalignment or crowding of the permanent teeth. As baby teeth fall out, the reabsorption of their roots creates space, which helps guide the emergence of adult teeth.
The Cornerstone of Confidence
Healthy teeth are vital for children, as they influence both speech and smiling, which, in turn, impact their social development and self-esteem. Dental issues can affect how children communicate and how they are perceived by others, potentially influencing their confidence from a young age.
Good Eating Habits for Growing Bodies
When children experience dental pain, they may avoid certain foods, especially those that are crunchy or chewy, which can interfere with their nutrition and overall growth. This discomfort can lead to habits like chewing on just one side of the mouth or refusing certain foods, making it difficult to maintain a well-rounded diet essential for their physical development.
Your Child’s First Appointment
At the heart of our care for patients of all ages is a commitment to their health, comfort, and well-being. Pediatric dentistry requires a tailored approach to address the specific needs of young patients. We keep a close eye on oral health milestones and take extra care in communicating with children in a fun, friendly way to help them feel secure and involved in the process.
Show and Tell
Every child reacts to new experiences in their own way—some are excited and eager to learn, while others may feel nervous or reserved. Our goal is to make each child feel at ease and positive about visiting the dentist. We start by engaging them in a light-hearted conversation, addressing their concerns, and clearly explaining the procedures we’ll be doing, making sure to answer any questions they may have.
Gentle Examination
During the exam, we focus on child-specific oral health indicators, carefully checking the gums, teeth, tongue, and overall oral health. We observe the development of both baby and adult teeth, keeping an eye out for any issues that may need attention now or in the future, as well as areas requiring extra care at home.
Keeping You in the Loop
Once the examination is complete, we offer valuable advice to both the child and their parent or guardian. This guidance includes tips on brushing tricky spots and insight into any areas we’re monitoring for potential future concern. Working together, we can ensure your child maintains optimal oral health!
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’s teeth, from infancy through their teenage years. It requires dentists to be trained in managing the developmental changes in children’s mouths while ensuring their comfort and long-term oral health.
It’s recommended to bring your child in for their first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth. Early visits help foster positive experiences, and if any issues arise earlier, it’s best to consult with a dentist right away.
Typically, children and teenagers will transition from a pediatric dentist to a general dentist once they reach adulthood, usually by the age of 18. Pediatric dentists are specially trained to address the needs of younger patients and ensure proper oral health as they grow.
The general guideline is for toddlers to see a dentist every six months. However, your child might require more frequent visits depending on their oral health. Always keep an eye on potential concerns and schedule an appointment sooner if needed.
The first dental visit usually focuses on making your child feel comfortable and familiar with the process. The dentist will gently check your child’s teeth and gums while explaining everything in an easy, friendly way to ensure they’re at ease.
If your child is anxious about dental visits, begin by introducing them to the idea in a calm and reassuring manner. Use stories, books, or videos to show that dental appointments can be a positive experience. It also helps to choose a pediatric dentist who is experienced in working with nervous children.
