Sometimes heading to the dentist is a scary thing for kids
Dr. Lindsay and the rest of our staff members focus on making kids safe and comfortable at every appointment. We’ve created an environment that is both professional and welcoming, working to ensure every child has a relaxing experience so kids get on a pathway to good oral health that will accompany them the rest of their life. We’re experienced dealing with patients of all ages, and our highly-trained pediatric dentist specializes in treating kids of all ages with the latest, cutting-edge treatment options.
Schedule an AppointmentHow Often Should Your Child Visit the Dentist?
Getting your child into the dentist regularly is important, since good oral health now sets your child up for healthy teeth and gums in adulthood. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, kids need to see a dentist for the first time by their first birthday. After that first visit, it’s important to make sure your child visits the dentist every six months for a routine checkup and cleaning.
Your Child's First Tooth
In most cases, the first baby teeth appear when your child is around 6-9 months old.
The two bottom front teeth are generally the first to appear. Once your baby has teeth, it’s time to start thinking about a trip to the dentist. Your child’s baby teeth are important. They are essential for your child’s speech, biting, and chewing, and they also hold the space for your child’s permanent teeth.
When your child has his first dental visit, we’ll work hard to put your child at ease immediately. A good experience at the first appointment is essential. At the first visit, we’ll help you come up with a good plan of preventive home care, provide you with important information on your child’s oral growth and development, and do an assessment of your child’s current oral health.
What to Expect at Your Child’s First Dental Visit
We know that going to the dentist for the first time can sometimes be a scary process for kids, so Dr. Lindsay is focused on making them feel as comfortable as possible. Our advanced training in the area of pediatric dentistry and orthodontics allows us to offer the best possible treatment and our experience with first time visits has given us the tools to do so.
At your child’s first visit, we like to concentrate on getting to know your child. We also view this visit as an opportunity to give you some basic information about dental care. Dr. Lindsay will check your child’s teeth for placement and health, and look for any potential problems. She will also answer any questions you have about how to care for your child’s teeth. We want the first visit to be a positive experience for your child. Our goal is to make your child’s dental appointment fun!
Helping Kids Adopt Healthy Oral Hygiene Habits
When your kids visit our pediatric dentist, we’ll talk to them about adopting healthy oral hygiene habits. Children should be using a size appropriate toothbrush with soft bristles that won’t damage their teeth or gums. While we’ll be happy to go over oral hygiene in-office, you’ll need to back up those habits at home. Toddlers will especially need some guidance, and some suggestions from our dentist that may help include:
• Letting your child brush their teeth first, and then brush their teeth yourself to ensure complete plaque removal
• Talk to your child regularly about why healthy teeth and good oral hygiene are important
• Brush each other’s teeth or brush together at the same time
• Make tooth brushing a routine
Regular Checkups to Prevent Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is a common problem in children, and kids are at a higher risk for tooth decay because many don’t practice good, regular oral hygiene habits. Along with healthy oral hygiene habits, it’s essential to get your kids in for regular checkups. Along with regular checkups and cleanings, fluoride treatments may also be helpful for kids, since they help keep teeth strong. Another option that may help prevent tooth decay is tooth sealants, since they seal off the deep grooves in a child’s teeth, helping to prevent tooth decay in areas that are tough to reach when brushing.
Treatment for Kids of All Ages
Dr. Lindsay, our experienced pediatric dentist, offers treatment for kids of all ages. We welcome young toddlers who just have started getting their first teeth, as well as school age children who still have their baby teeth. We continue to provide care for children as they get their first adult teeth and we care for kids into adolescence and their teen years as well. No matter your child’s age, we offer the unique, age-appropriate dental care they need.
We offer a variety of treatments and services to meet the needs of all your children
Your kids will enjoy comprehensive oral health care in our office, including treatments like:
• Oral health exams for infants, including a risk assessment
• Habit counseling (for thumb sucking, pacifier use, etc.)
• Preventive dental care for kids of all ages, including diet and nutrition recommendations, • regular cleanings, and fluoride treatments
• Diagnosis of any oral conditions that may be associated with congenital heart defects, ADHD, diabetes, hay fever, and asthma
• Care for any dental injuries that occur, such as knocked-out teeth, fractured teeth, or displaced teeth
• Early assessment of bite and treatment for correcting improper bites and straightening teeth
• Management of various gum diseases
• Repair of tooth defects or cavities