Children and Oral Health

We’re committed to providing high quality dental care to your entire family.

We normally recommend a child’s first dental visit at age 3, unless your child is complaining of pain or you see something of concern.  When your child gets his/her first tooth, you should clean them after meals with a moist gauze pad or washcloth. When your child is comfortable with a toothbrush, you may start brushing twice a day with an extra soft brush and a pea-sized amount of toothpaste.  Gently floss daily, paying close attention to the areas where the teeth are close together.  When your child is ready for their first visit to our office, we strive to make it a positive experience.  A good first impression can lead to healthy habits for a lifetime!  Our hygienist will count and polish teeth, and the dentist will examine your child’s mouth.  X-rays will be taken as soon as your child’s mouth is strong enough to hold the digital x-ray sensors.  They are an important tool to detect your child’s risk of decay and identify dental problems.  As your child grows older, fluoride treatments are recommended to reverse low levels of tooth decay and prevent new cavities.  Sealants may also be suggested for children.  When the back molars are developing, often grooves and depressions form on the chewing surface that can harbor plaque and food particles.  These areas are difficult to reach with a toothbrush.  A thin layer of material is “painted” onto the tooth enamel, and a curing light “seals” it to the tooth.  It’s a quick, painless, and long-lasting way to help keep your child’s teeth healthy.