We see family members of all ages in our practice. We have found that an initial appointment around the age of 3 seems to be best. While children can be seen younger than that, they are not usually as co-operative as they are at 3. It may be beneficial to have a young child watch an older sibling or parent to become more familiar to the office and staff.

In some cases (very few), we may refer your child to a pediatric dentist if necessary to treat your child's needs.

What Does a Dentist Do For Children?

Dentists fulfill many important functions pertaining to the child’s overall oral health and hygiene.  They place particular emphasis on the proper maintenance and care of deciduous (baby) teeth, which are instrumental in facilitating good chewing habits, proper speech production, and also hold space for permanent teeth.

Other important functions include:

Education – We educate the child using child-friendly terminology, thus emphasizing the importance of keeping teeth strong and healthy.  In addition, they advise parents on disease prevention, trauma prevention, good eating habits, and other aspects of the home hygiene routine.

Monitoring growth – By continuously tracking growth and development, dentists are able to anticipate dental issues and quickly intervene before they worsen.  Also, working towards earlier corrective treatment preserves the child’s self-esteem and fosters a more positive self-image.

Prevention – Helping parents and children establish sound eating and oral care habits reduces the chances of later tooth decay.  In addition to providing check ups and dental cleanings, dentists are also able to apply dental sealants and topical fluoride to young teeth, advise parents on thumb- sucking/pacifier/smoking cessation, and provide good demonstrations of brushing and flossing.

Intervention – In some cases, dentists may discuss the possibility of early oral treatments with parents. 

If you have questions or concerns about  dentistry for your child, please contact our office.