Dental Care for Children
Our practice was designed to be a fun and inviting place for patients of all ages. We understand how important it is for patients, especially kids, to start off on the right foot and have a positive experience from the very beginning. It’s important to us that children are taught proper oral hygiene when they are young so that they can carry these good habits throughout adulthood.
Here are some common questions and answers about pediatric dentistry:
- When do baby teeth come in? The time frame in which baby teeth erupt varies patient to patient. Most will have their first teeth erupt (lower incisors) around 6 months of age. Teeth will continue to erupt until the child reaches age 2-3 years old.
- When should my child’s first dental visit be? We recommend that a child go to the dentist by age 1 or within 6 months after the first tooth erupts. We call this visit a “happy visit” and it is meant to introduce the child to the dental office in addition to helping parents understand proper oral hygiene.
- When should my child start using toothpaste? Non-fluoridated toothpaste can be used immediately when brushing begins. Fluoride toothpaste should be reserved until the child understands to spit out the toothpaste instead of swallowing
- Does my child need fluoride? Oral fluoride in the form of tablets or drops (as prescribed by your pediatrician or dentist) is recommended for children who live in areas without fluoridated water or do not drink enough fluoridated tap water. A child should take these as prescribed. Topical fluoride treatment (provided at a dental visit) is recommended every 6-12 months to help prevent cavities. Children should not eat, drink or rinse for 30 minutes after fluoride has been placed.
- What are Sealants? Sealants are preventative fillings placed on adult molars to help guard against tooth decay. Adult molars, which start erupting at 6 years of age, are highly susceptible to decay on the tops or chewing surfaces. Sealants are meant to fill in these grooves and provide extra protection against tooth decay.
