Children are naturally curious, and the dentist's office can seem like a whole new world to explore! Our friendly staff uses clear, calming words to explain each step of the visit, making your child feel comfortable from the moment you walk in the door.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Recommends...
Bringing your child to the dentist by their first birthday! Early dental care (around six to twelve months when their first teeth erupt) helps establish healthy habits and ensures proper care for their developing teeth.
Getting to Know Your Teeth is Fun!
Download our Dynamite Dental Fun Kit to make learning about oral hygiene enjoyable for your child!
When New Teeth Arrive
Your child's baby teeth will start erupting between six and twelve months, continuing until around age three. To soothe sore gums during this time, gently massage their gums with a clean finger or a cool, wet cloth. Teething rings can also be helpful.
Baby teeth are eventually replaced by permanent teeth, with eruption starting around age six and continuing until age 21. Adults typically have 28 permanent teeth (32 including wisdom teeth).
Adopting Healthy Oral Hygiene Habits
Start checking your child's teeth for signs of decay (lines or discoloration) every two weeks once they erupt. Sugary foods and drinks can quickly damage new teeth, so brushing after each feeding is essential. For optimal oral hygiene, brushing twice a day is recommended.
Brushing can be a fun activity for your child – you can start as soon as their first tooth appears! Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of toothpaste for young children. Avoid fluoride toothpaste for children under two unless your dentist or healthcare professional advises otherwise. We recommend talking to your child about proper brushing techniques.
Flossing is another important part of oral hygiene. Your dentist will advise you on the best time to start flossing your child's teeth. If you notice any signs of decay, contact your dentist right away.
Preventing Tooth Decay with Regular Checkups
Tooth decay is caused by leftover sugars in the mouth that turn into acid and damage teeth. Children are especially susceptible because they may not have developed good oral hygiene habits yet. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits help keep tooth decay at bay.
Bring your child in for dental cleanings and checkups every six months. We recommend adding fluoride treatments twice a year alongside cleanings to strengthen their teeth. Dental sealants can also be applied to "seal" the grooves in your child's teeth, preventing decay in hard-to-reach areas. Sealants typically last several years but will be monitored during regular checkups.
