We are happy to be your children’s dentist. We feel it is very important that your child develop positive feelings about the dental experience prior to any necessary treatment. Our office regularly cares for the dental needs of children as young as three years old. However, if you notice that your child has a problem with the teeth or gums prior to this age, please schedule an appointment. We recommend that you bring your child with you to your dental checkup when he or she is two and a half so that your child can become familiar with the positive nature of our dental office.
Your child’s checkup at age three will include a dental examination with the dentist to check for proper development, as well as tooth decay. The hygienist will introduce your child to the dental cleaning and will also teach oral homecare techniques so that you can assist your child to effectively brush and floss. Your child should be scheduled every six months after his first visit for regular checkups and dental cleanings to ensure optimal oral health. The dentist may recommend dental sealants or fluoride applications. Sealants and fluoride applications are quick and easy preventive measures that can decrease the chances of having cavities. In some cases, we refer children to pedodontists, who are specialists in children’s dentistry. At the appropriate age we will refer your child to an orthodontist.
Please contact us if you wish to make a first appointment for your child.
Dental Sealants
The American Dental Association recognizes sealants as a key means of cavity prevention. Most molar teeth have deep pits and grooves on the biting surfaces where bacteria and food can trap and cause decay. Dental sealants are thin, plastic coverings over the biting surfaces of the molar teeth that help prevent tooth decay.
Fluoride Supplements
Fluoride is a mineral that strengthens the tooth enamel. Teeth that are deficient in fluoride are at a greater risk for getting cavities. We recommend in office fluoride treatments for children until the age of eighteen and for adults with high incidence of decay. Our hygienist may recommend additional home fluoride treatments if you or your child are cavity prone.
Fluoride has been added to most of the public water supplies in the United States. However, most bottled water does not contain fluoride. If bottled water is being used in babies’ formula or in children’s lunches it is important to insure that it contains fluoride.