Children’s Dental Care

Regular visits to the dentist aren’t just for adults; children need routine dental care to help them establish proper oral hygiene practices, as well as to create a life-long beautiful and healthy smile. Pediatric dentistry, or children’s dentistry, involves a variety of diagnostic and treatment procedures designed to keep children’s teeth and oral structures on the proper path of development. For instance, treatments such as dental sealants and fluoride applications can help children gain an upper hand in preventing cavities. Sealants are layers of biocompatible acrylic that protect teeth from plaque, tartar, and food debris, while fluoride applications can strengthen the enamel that naturally protects your children’s teeth. Routine dental visits will help ensure that your child has the tools and knowledge necessary to maintain their healthy smiles for life.

When to Schedule an Appointment

Dr. Campbell recommends bringing your child for his or her first dental visit by the age of one, or shortly after their first tooth erupts. This initial visit will help your child grow accustomed to the dentist’s office, making future visits more comfortable and less intimidating. By the age of three, you should begin bringing your child to the dentist at least once every six months for routine checkup and cleaning appointments.

Besides cavities, children’s dentistry can also help your child avoid complications arising from crooked or congenitally abnormal teeth. For instance, if your child exhibits malocclusion (misaligned teeth), then interceptive braces may be necessary to correct their alignment.