The impact of pediatric dentistry
Our mission is to ensure children start their dental journey with confidence through welcoming, child-friendly care that fosters a positive relationship between the dental team and young patients. This approach encourages kids to feel involved and empowered in managing their own oral health. Establishing happy, healthy habits early on sets the stage for a lifetime of dental care that they’ll actually look forward to.
Pediatric dental care starts at the very first visit and continues with enjoyable, age-appropriate cleanings at each developmental stage. We take pride in guiding children through the experience of discovering their new teeth, losing baby teeth, growing adult teeth, and navigating other milestones such as getting a filling (which isn’t so scary after all!) or beginning orthodontic treatment as young adults.
Why children’s dental care is so crucial
You might be surprised to hear that some question the importance of children’s dental care, simply because primary (baby) teeth eventually fall out. While it’s true that most children have their baby teeth by age 3 and lose them by about age 6, the health of these early teeth plays a critical role in their long-term oral development. The condition of their dental health during these foundational years can have lasting effects.
The consequences of poor dental health
Just like adults, children are at risk for tooth decay, tooth sensitivity, infection, and gum disease. Without prior experience, children may not express discomfort in the same way adults do, but they still feel it. If you notice your child avoiding hot and cold foods or chewing on only one side of their mouth, they might be coping with dental pain or sensitivity.
How baby teeth impact adult teeth
As baby teeth loosen and fall out, the roots are reabsorbed, and the empty space helps guide the eruption of adult teeth. If a baby tooth is lost prematurely, it can cause complications like crowding or crooked adult teeth. Maintaining healthy baby teeth, along with strong gums and supportive tissues, ensures adult teeth have the best foundation possible.
Building confidence through healthy teeth
A full set of healthy teeth is essential for children as they learn to speak, smile, and interact with others. Dental issues, pain, or sensitivity can impact their ability to communicate and affect their self-esteem, influencing how they are perceived by their peers.
Encouraging good eating habits
Proper nutrition is essential for children, and their ability to enjoy a variety of foods can be affected by dental discomfort. Children who experience tooth pain may avoid crunchy, chewy, or textured foods, leading to bad eating habits. They may develop the tendency to chew on one side of their mouth or eat less altogether, which can have long-term effects on their overall health.
Your child’s first dental appointment
At our clinic, we prioritise your child’s health, comfort, and overall experience. In pediatric dentistry, we pay special attention to the unique challenges faced by our youngest patients when they visit the dentist. We carefully monitor their oral health markers and milestones, and we speak with your child in a friendly, reassuring manner to ensure they feel safe and involved throughout the visit.
Show and Tell
Every child is different – some are curious and full of questions, while others may feel shy or anxious about new experiences. Our goal is to make every child feel comfortable and excited about their dental visit. The best way to do this is by engaging in a friendly conversation using language they can understand. We start each appointment by asking how they’re feeling, addressing any concerns they may have, and explaining what will happen during their visit. This helps ensure they feel at ease and in control.
Gentle Examination
We focus on your child’s unique oral health needs, gently examining their gums, tongue, teeth, and overall dental health. Our exam carefully monitors the development of their primary and adult teeth, allowing us to identify any areas of concern that may need extra care at home or during future appointments. This approach ensures we catch any potential issues early, helping to keep their smile bright and healthy.
Keeping you informed
After the exam, we’ll share our findings and provide tailored advice for both your child and you. This may include helpful tips for brushing tricky spots at home or things to watch for between appointments. If we notice any areas that need special attention, we’ll keep track of them and inform you of any future steps. Working together, we can ensure your child’s dental health is on the right track!
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pediatric dentistry specializes in caring for children’s dental needs from infancy to the teen years, focusing on the changes their mouths undergo as they develop from primary to adult teeth.
It’s recommended to take your child to the dentist by age 1 or within 6 months of their first tooth. Since teething usually begins around 6 months, early visits ensure any concerns are addressed promptly. If you notice signs of discomfort or suspect an issue, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment. It’s never too late for their first dental visit.
A pediatric dentist typically provides care for children from 6 months to 18 years old, until they reach
Just like adults, toddlers should visit the dentist every 6 months, unless otherwise advised by their dentist. Some families may choose appointments every 3 or 8 months based on specific needs or budget. However, it’s important not to wait more than a year between visits. If your child is experiencing discomfort or pain, schedule an appointment promptly.
Start brushing your child’s teeth as soon as the first tooth appears, using a soft toothbrush and a small amount of fluoride toothpaste. Continue to supervise brushing until they are old enough to do it themselves, usually around age 6.
Yes, it’s common for children to feel anxious or scared about visiting the dentist. Creating positive experiences, such as explaining what to expect and keeping visits short and friendly, can help ease their fears.
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