Pediatric Dental FAQs

Don't forget to make a dentist appointment for your child when their first tooth comes in. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children should have their first dental check-up within six months of their first tooth erupting, or by their first birthday, whichever comes first.

During the initial appointment, our goal is to provide clear and easily understandable information. We will focus on getting to know your child and discussing important aspects of dental care. The dentist will evaluate your child's teeth for alignment and overall health, as well as check for any gum or jaw issues. If needed, a gentle cleaning will be performed. We will also address any questions you have about your child's dental care and offer useful resources with tips for maintaining good oral hygiene at home.

To ensure your child has a successful first visit to our office, it is important to maintain a positive attitude. Children can pick up on adults' anxieties, so it is crucial to avoid making negative comments about going to the dentist. Show your child pictures of our office and staff on our website to help them become familiar with the environment. Emphasize the importance of healthy teeth and gums and reassure them that the doctor is there to help. Our staff is experienced in addressing fears and anxiety, and we are skilled at making children feel comfortable during treatment.

Don't forget to book your child's dental checkups every six months. In certain situations, they may need to visit more often.

Remember that your child's baby teeth are important for their development. Even though they are temporary, these primary teeth are necessary for speech, smiling, and chewing. They also help make room for permanent teeth. If a baby tooth is lost early due to damage or decay, it can cause alignment issues with permanent teeth. Additionally, your child's dental health can affect their overall well-being.

Remember to gently wipe your baby's gums with a damp cloth after feeding until their first tooth emerges. Once their first tooth appears, transition to a toothbrush with soft bristles and a small head. Infant toothbrushes can be found at various drugstores.

As your child's baby teeth start to come in, it's important to begin using toothpaste on their toothbrush. Use a small amount for each brushing and opt for fluoride-free toothpaste for children under two to prevent any potential harm from excessive fluoride. Encourage your child to rinse and spit out the toothpaste after brushing to help them establish a healthy routine for when they transition to fluoride toothpaste. Keep in mind that children may attempt to swallow toothpaste, but too much fluoride can lead to tooth discoloration. It's recommended to brush your child's teeth for them until they are able to do it on their own, typically around six or seven years old.

Some bacteria in our mouths produce acids when they interact with sugary foods left on our teeth after eating. These acids can erode the enamel, leading to the development of cavities.

Make sure your child brushes their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flosses daily to clean all areas. Talk to your child's dentist about a fluoride supplement to strengthen tooth enamel. Limit sugary foods and drinks, snack in moderation, and eat a healthy diet. Don't forget to schedule regular cleanings and monitor your child's dental health.

It is recommended to use sealants to cover hard-to-reach pits and fissures in teeth that are prone to decay. This safe and easy method can assist children in preventing cavities, particularly in their molars.

Attention parents of children participating in sports, we strongly recommend considering custom-fitted mouthguards to reduce the risk of contact injuries. These mouthguards are designed to provide protection for teeth, lips, cheeks, and gums. Contact us for further details on obtaining a personalized mouthguard for your child.

Please inform us if your child persists in thumb sucking after their permanent teeth have erupted, or if they do so aggressively, so we can assess any possible concerns. Although thumb sucking is typical in infancy, most children naturally cease this habit by the age of four without causing any lasting harm to their teeth.

It is recommended to have X-rays taken for your child around the age of two or three to familiarize them with the process. The first X-rays will show basic images of the front upper and lower teeth. As the back baby teeth begin to touch, it is suggested to have X-rays taken regularly (at least once a year). Permanent teeth typically start coming in around age six, and X-rays are important for monitoring the health and alignment of your child's teeth and jaw. If your child is at a higher risk for dental problems, we may suggest getting X-rays at a younger age.