Pediatric Dentistry

Information may not be reliable

The more we inform you about the first visit, the better you will feel.

The American Academy of Pediactric Dentistry recommends...

By your childs first birthday they should have had a visit to the dentist. It is important for your child's new teeth (erupting at six and twelve months of age) recieve appropriate dental care. This ensures proper oral hygiene habits right from the beginning.

Getting to know your teeth can be fun!

When New Teeth Arrive

Within six to twelve months your child's first primary or baby teeth will start erupting, and will go on until about age three. During this process your child's gums will be sore and tender. To help ease the discomfort, we suggest that you soothe the gums using a clean wet finger or cool, wet cloth across them. Teething rings are also available for your child. You can expect a total of 20 primary teeth when your child has finished teething.

Your childs baby teeth will fall out at various times through their childhood. At age six adult teeth will begin to erupt, and will continue until age 21. Adults have 28 permanent teeth (32, including wisdom teeth).

Adopting Healthy Oral Hygiene Habits

Be sure to examine your child's teeth during the erupting process. You will want to look for lines and discoloration that may be caused by decay. Keep in mind that sugary foods and liquids can attack a baby tooth, so make sure our child is brushing after every meal. For optimal health we recommend brushing four times a day: after breakfast, after lunch, after dinner, and at bedtime.

Brushing teeth should be fun for the child. At the sign of the first primary tooth the parent should use a soft bristled brush and a pea size amount of toothpaste. For children under the age of two, fluoride toothpaste should not be used unless directed by a doctor. We suggest teaching proper tooth brushing procedures with your child.

Flossing is also important to good oral hygiene habits, your dentist will discuss the correct time to begin flossing. If you notice signs of tooth decay please contact your dentist right away.

Preventing Tooth Decay With Regular Checkups

When sugars are left in your mouth it turns into acid, which can break down your teeth and causes tooth decay. Tooth decay in children is a high risk simply because they do not practice good oral hygiene habits. Regular denatl visits along with proper brushing and flossing habits help keep tooth decay away.

Your child should visit the dentist every six months for regular cleanings and checkups. Along with the cleanings fluoride treatments are recommended for optimal tooth strength. Tooth sealants are also recommended because they "seal" the crevices and grooves in your childs teeth, preventing decay from forming. Sealants can last for several years but ill be monitered at your child's checkups.