Dental Hygiene for Children

YOUR FIRST VISIT TO THE DENTIST

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends children visit a dentist by their first birthday. The American Dental Association (ADA) also endorses the Age One visit, stressing the importance of establishing a “Dental Home”, to ensure good oral health. When possible, we would like to see you and your child around 9 to 12 months of age, so we have time to reduce any risk factors we may find. Our Age One visit is for you – the parents! We provide you with the information you need to care for your child’s smile. As we focus on prevention, we will discuss the importance of your child’s diet and hygiene, to reduce the risk of future cavities and costly dental work.

INITIAL EXAM BY YOUR CHILDREN’S DENTIST

For children ages 3 and older, we start by thoroughly reviewing your child’s health history to help determine the need for any special dental care. Our New Patient visit includes an orientation to the office, gentle soft tissue examination, oral cancer screening, scaling and polishing, necessary x-rays, fluoride treatment, oral hygiene instruction, dental development evaluation, dietary and nutritional counseling, and patient/parent education. We encourage both mom and dad to be present with their child during the entire visit. We teach you and your child how to best care for their teeth, offer advice on eating habits and answer any specific questions you may have. We explain how cavities are caused, what you can do to prevent them and how your children can help fight gum and tooth disease by brushing properly. All information is provided in an age appropriate manner to help nurture and encourage your child.

ROUTINE DENTAL CHECK-UP APPOINTMENTS

Our Routine Check-Up appointments encompass a review of any health history changes or updates, a thorough examination, any necessary x-rays, cleaning and polishing and fluoride application. We are here to provide the tools you and your child need to remain cavity free.

CLEANING TEETH

Teeth are cleaned to remove plaque (bacteria) and calculus (hard plaque) that can cause gum disease and tooth decay. A thorough cleaning and fluoride treatment every six months has been shown to be an extremely effective way to prevent dental disease.