Pediatric Dental FAQs

Remember to schedule a dentist appointment for your child as soon as their first tooth appears. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry suggests that children should have their first dental check-up within six months of their first tooth coming in, or by their first birthday, whichever comes first.

At the first appointment, our aim is to offer straightforward and easily comprehensible information. We will concentrate on familiarizing ourselves with your child and talking about key elements of dental care. The dentist will assess your child's teeth for alignment and general health, and also examine for any gum or jaw problems. If necessary, a gentle cleaning will be carried out. We will also answer any queries you may have regarding your child's dental care and provide helpful resources with advice on how to maintain good oral hygiene at home.

In order to set your child up for a successful first visit to our office, it is essential to approach the appointment with a positive mindset. Children are sensitive to adults' emotions, so it is crucial to refrain from making negative remarks about visiting the dentist. Familiarize your child with our office and staff by showing them photos on our website. Stress the significance of maintaining good oral hygiene and assure them that the dentist is there to assist them. Our team is well-equipped to address any fears or anxieties your child may have, and we excel at creating a comfortable atmosphere for children during treatment.

Remember to schedule your child's dental check-ups every six months. In some cases, they may require more frequent visits.

Don't forget that your child's baby teeth play a crucial role in their development. While they may be temporary, these primary teeth are essential for speech, smiling, and chewing. They also help pave the way for permanent teeth. Losing a baby tooth prematurely due to damage or decay can lead to alignment problems with their permanent teeth. Furthermore, your child's dental health can impact their overall health and well-being.

Don't forget to softly clean your baby's gums with a wet cloth after feeding until their first tooth comes in. When their first tooth appears, switch to a toothbrush with gentle bristles and a small head. You can find infant toothbrushes at different drugstores.

It is important to start using toothpaste on your child's toothbrush when their baby teeth start coming in. Use a small amount of fluoride-free toothpaste for children under two to avoid any potential harm from too much fluoride. Encourage your child to rinse and spit out the toothpaste after brushing to help them develop a healthy routine for when they switch to fluoride toothpaste. Remember that children may try to swallow toothpaste, but excessive fluoride can cause tooth discoloration. It is recommended to brush your child's teeth for them until they are able to do it on their own, usually around six or seven years old.

Certain bacteria in our mouths create acids when they come into contact with sugary foods that remain on our teeth after eating. These acids can wear away the enamel, causing cavities to form.

Ensure your child brushes their teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flosses daily to reach all areas. Consult with your child's dentist about a fluoride supplement to enhance tooth enamel. Restrict sugary foods and beverages, snack in moderation, and maintain a healthy diet. Remember to schedule routine cleanings and keep an eye on your child's dental health.

Using sealants is a highly recommended way to prevent cavities in the hard-to-reach pits and fissures of teeth, particularly in children's molars. This safe and straightforward method can be extremely effective.

Dear parents of children involved in sports, we highly advise looking into custom-fitted mouthguards to lower the chances of contact injuries. These mouthguards are specifically made to safeguard teeth, lips, cheeks, and gums. Please reach out to us for more information on how to get a personalized mouthguard for your child.

Please let us know if your child continues to suck their thumb after their permanent teeth have come in, or does so forcefully, so we can evaluate any potential issues. While thumb sucking is common in infancy, most children naturally stop by age four without causing any lasting damage to their teeth.

We recommend having X-rays taken for your child around the age of two or three to help them get used to the process. The initial X-rays will show basic images of the front upper and lower teeth. As the back baby teeth begin to touch, it is advised to have X-rays taken regularly, at least once a year. Permanent teeth usually start coming in around age six, and X-rays are crucial for monitoring the health and alignment of your child's teeth and jaw. If your child is at a higher risk for dental issues, we may recommend getting X-rays at a younger age.