The Impact of Pediatric Dentistry
Our goal is to provide children with pediatric dental care that encourages a positive and engaging relationship with our dental team, helping them take ownership of their oral health. By establishing healthy habits early, we create a foundation for a lifetime of dental visits that children can genuinely look forward to.
From their very first appointment, our pediatric dental services are designed to be fun and child-friendly. We guide our young patients through routine cleanings, the excitement of their first tooth, the loss of baby teeth, and the emergence of adult teeth. We’re also here to make experiences like receiving a filling—or starting orthodontic treatment as a teenager—feel much less intimidating. Our team is committed to supporting every milestone, ensuring dental care is always a positive part of their development.
Why Children's Dental Care Matters
While some may question the importance of dental care for children, especially since primary teeth eventually fall out, these early years are critical for establishing lifelong oral health. By age 3, most children have all their baby teeth, which start to fall out around age 6. Excluding wisdom teeth, most children will have their full set of adult teeth by their early teens. The health of these early teeth can have a significant impact on the development of adult teeth. Practicing good dental habits during this crucial time helps prevent future problems and sets the stage for a lifetime of healthy teeth.
Preventing Discomfort and Health Issues
Just like adults, children are at risk for tooth decay, sensitivity, infections, and gum disease. While they may not always express discomfort clearly, children experience pain just as intensely. If you notice your child avoiding hot or cold foods, being selective with their food choices, or chewing only on one side of their mouth, these could be signs of dental pain or sensitivity. Early intervention is key to preventing more severe issues from developing.
Baby Teeth Pave the Way for Adult Teeth
As baby teeth loosen and fall out, their roots are reabsorbed, creating space for adult teeth to emerge. If a baby tooth is lost prematurely, it can lead to complications like crowding or misalignment of adult teeth. Keeping baby teeth healthy, along with maintaining the surrounding gums and tissue, is essential to give adult teeth the best possible start.
The Foundation of Confidence
Healthy teeth are essential for children as they learn to speak and smile with confidence. From a young age, children develop social skills, and their dental health plays a major role in these early interactions. Dental pain or sensitivity can affect their ability to communicate and express themselves, potentially impacting their social interactions and self-esteem.
Supporting Nutritious Eating Habits for Growing Bodies
Encouraging a varied and nutritious diet is important for children’s development, but it can be challenging for parents with picky eaters. Dental discomfort or pain can make it even harder, as children may avoid foods that require chewing, such as crunchy or chewy foods. This can lead to unhealthy eating habits, like chewing on only one side of the mouth or showing a decreased interest in eating altogether. Addressing dental issues early can prevent these habits from becoming ingrained and help maintain healthier eating patterns as children grow.
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 focuses on the dental care of children, from infancy to their teenage years. Pediatric dentists are specially trained to manage the changes that occur in children’s mouths as they grow. This expertise ensures that their dental health is carefully supported at every stage of their development.
Typically, your child will start teething around 6 months of age. It’s recommended to schedule their first dental visit by age 1 or within 6 months of their first tooth appearing. If you notice any signs of discomfort or suspect an issue, it’s important to make an appointment sooner. It’s never too late for a child to have their first visit.
Pediatric dentists care for children up to the age of 18, addressing their unique dental needs throughout childhood and adolescence. Once your child becomes an adult, they will transition to seeing a general dentist for ongoing dental care.
Just like adults, toddlers should visit the dentist about every 6 months. Some families may choose more frequent visits, such as every 3 or 8 months, depending on specific needs and preferences. However, it’s important not to let more than a year pass between check-ups. If your child is experiencing discomfort or pain, schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
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