Pediatric Dentistry
Specialized dentistry tailored to children’s unique needs, from first teeth to teen years.
Importance of Pediatric Dentistry
Pediatric dentistry focuses on oral health care for infants, children, and teens, including those with special needs. Early visits starting by age one help prevent problems, reduce future costs, and create a “dental home” for ongoing, family-centered care.
Early Detection and Prevention
Regular visits help identify issues like cavities or misalignment early, preventing more serious problems.
Building Positive Habits
Children learn proper brushing, flossing, and diet choices, fostering lifelong oral hygiene.
Addressing Special Needs
Tailored care for children with disabilities or medical conditions ensures inclusive treatment.
Reducing Anxiety
Fun, engaging approaches help kids overcome dental fears, making future visits stress-free.
Preparing for Your Child's First Dental Visit
The first dental visit is a milestone! We recommend it by your child’s first birthday or within six months of the first tooth erupting. This early start allows us to assess risks, provide anticipatory guidance, and prevent issues like early childhood caries.
What to Expect:
- Duration: About 30-45 minutes, focused on fun and familiarity.
- Activities: A gentle exam, cleaning if needed, and discussion of habits like pacifier use or diet.
- Parent Role: You’ll stay with your child; we encourage questions about home care.
- Tips for Success: Read books about dentists beforehand, avoid scary words, and schedule during your child’s best time of day.
Our Approach
At One Health Dental Clinic, our pediatric process is fun, gentle, and educational, designed to make dental care a positive adventure for children and peace of mind for parents.
A Child-Friendly Environment
We have created a warm, welcoming atmosphere to make our youngest patients feel safe and relaxed.
Building Trust and Confidence
Our team is specially trained to communicate with children in an engaging and non-intimidating way.
A Foundation for the Future
Our goal is to set your child on a path to excellent oral health that will last a lifetime, in line with our "one health" philosophy.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should my child have their first dental visit?
We recommend that every child visit the dentist by their first birthday or when the first tooth appears, typically around 6 months. This early “well baby check” for the teeth helps establish a dental home, where your child’s oral health care is delivered in a comprehensive, ongoing, accessible, coordinated, and family-centered way. At One Health Dental Clinic, this visit is mostly educational, focusing on teaching parents tools to keep their children cavity-free, assessing risks, and preventing future issues. Research shows that children who have their first visit by age 1 have 40% lower dental costs in the first five years and are less likely to need fillings or restorative work.
How can I prepare my child for their first dental visit?
Schedule the visit during a time when your child is well-rested and not hungry to ensure a positive experience. Read books about going to the dentist, play “dentist” at home with toys, and use positive language to avoid scary words like “hurt” or “shot.” At the appointment, which lasts about 30-45 minutes, expect a gentle exam, possible cleaning, and discussions on habits like diet and teething. Parents can stay with the child throughout. At One Health Dental Clinic, we use fun elements like toys and stories to build trust and reduce anxiety.
What should I use to clean my baby's teeth and gums?
Before teeth erupt, clean your baby’s gums twice a day with a soft cloth or infant toothbrush and water, especially at bath time, to get them used to oral care. Once teeth appear, brush at least twice a day (after breakfast and before bed) with a soft-bristled baby toothbrush and a smear (rice-sized amount) of fluoridated toothpaste. For children under 3, supervise to ensure they don’t swallow too much. If your child gags or can’t spit, brush with a fluoride rinse or fluoridated water instead. This routine helps prevent gum disease and early decay.
Why do children need fluoride, and when should they start getting it?
Fluoride is a natural mineral that slows or stops cavities by protecting tooth enamel from acid produced by bacteria and sugars in the mouth. It helps rebuild enamel and prevents decay, reducing tooth decay by up to 25% in fluoridated communities. Start adding fluoride to your baby’s diet at 6 months, often through tap water or supplements if needed. Use fluoridated toothpaste from the first tooth, with a smear for under 3 years and pea-sized for 3-6 years. At One Health Dental Clinic, we apply fluoride varnish 2-4 times a year starting after the first tooth to prevent decay.
Schedule An Appointment For Pediatric Dentistry
Don’t delay your child’s oral health. Our pediatric team is here to provide compassionate, comprehensive care in a fun setting. Schedule today and give your child the gift of a healthy smile for life.