Pediatric Dentistry

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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It is very important for children to be introduced to the dental environment early.  The Academy of Pediatric Dentists and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that your child's first visit to the dentist take place within six months of the eruption of their first tooth.  Our goal is to make the dental office a non-threatening, fun and familiar place to be.  Our emphasis is on introducing the child to the dental environment and on prevention.

 

We tailor our approach to the individual child and use a number of techniques to introduce children to basic dental procedures in a non-scary way.  Imaging technology allows parents the opportunity to visualize a child’s oral condition clearly, under magnification, on a television monitor.  Kirby, the chimpanzee, is also available to demonstrate good brushing and flossing techniques on our award winning patient education program, Caesy. The use of cameras and video can be terrific icebreakers for young children allowing them to see “what’s going on”. 

 

For children with previous “bad experiences” or other difficult cases we utilize a multiple short appointment program to desensitize the child.  In addition, our staff is skilled in the use of nitrous oxide, where indicated, to relieve a child’s anxiety. In the past 30 years, we have had the pleasure of watching our young patients grow up to become parents themselves and we are now treating their children! 

 

A Pediatric Dentist:

- Is both Doctor and Teacher

- Upon completion of dental school, goes on to study for at least another two years, during which time they learn how to care for each stage of a child’s growth

- Understands your child and their developmental stage

- Offers age-appropriate care and is trained in care for developmentally-compromised children

- Can predict how your child’s mouth will develop and offer solutions to potential problem areas

 

How to help your child enjoy good dental health:

1. Brush two times a day with a fluoride toothpaste

2. See the dentist twice a year for dental check ups

3. Floss every day

4. Limit sugary snacks and drinks

5. Have teeth sealed when appropriate

6. Make sure your child’s drinking water contains a proper amount of fluoride and/or seek fluoride supplements when necessary

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