Dental visits should be positive experiences for children. But all too often children are nervous or afraid, and all it takes is a single negative experience for a child to develop dental anxiety. Adults with dental anxiety can often trace their fears back to an unpleasant or traumatic dental visit they had as a child. 

On the other hand, a happy dental visit can make children more comfortable with going to the dentist. When children form a positive view of dental care they are more likely to practice good oral hygiene habits and continue with preventive dental appointments into and throughout adulthood. 

What Makes a Happy Dental Visit? 

 The following help to ensure a positive dental experience for children: 

• Fun, kid-friendly environment. When the dental office has warm, inviting, and fun decor, kids are more likely to feel at home. It creates a lighthearted atmosphere that puts children and their parents at ease. 

• Compassion and patience. Children need compassion and patience to excess. They can’t be rushed or forced to cooperate, because that is how negative feelings develop. A gentle tone, words of encouragement, and a reward system are all helpful strategies when working with children. 

• Technology. A range of technology can make dental visits more positive for children. Dental technology can make treatments and procedures less invasive and more gentle. Media technology, such as TVs and tablets, allow children a welcome distraction from what is going on in their mouth. 

• Sedation dentistry. In some cases children may need some relaxation assistance, especially in the case of children with special needs. Sedation dentistry helps children feel more calm using a variety of medications and strategies. 

• Doctors and dental team with pediatric dentistry experience. Working with children comes naturally to some, and with experience for others. For your child to have a happy dental visit, the doctors and dental team must have experience providing dental care for children. 

At What Age Should Children Start Going to the Dentist? 

A key factor in helping children develop a positive association with dentistry is to begin dental care at an early age. According to the American Association of Pediatric Dentistry, children should have their first dental visit by the age of one, or within 6 months of the eruption of their first tooth. There are a few reasons for this. 

For one, as soon as a tooth is visible above the gums it is susceptible to decay, and by their first birthday most children have at least one tooth showing. Even before there are visible teeth, other oral health issues can develop. Preventive dentistry is already needed. 

The other main purpose of early dental care is to introduce children to the concept of going to the dentist at a young age and continue the routine with dental visits every 6 months to normalize the experience and reduce the chances that children will develop dental anxiety.

Frequently Asked Questions About Children’s Dentistry 

Why should I take my child to a pediatric dentist? 

Pediatric dental practices are geared specifically toward children and designed to meet their unique dental needs. Family dental practices also provide dental care for children, but may not be as prepared to treat very young children. 

What types of sedation do you offer? 

We offer a wide variety of sedation options, including nitrous oxide, conscious oral sedation, IV sedation, and outpatient general anesthesia. We believe that sedation can help children feel more comfortable and avoid unnecessary stress. 

Schedule Your Child’s Happy Dental Visit Today  

Kids and Teens Dental Place strives to provide a happy and comfortable experience for every child during each dental visit. Our doctors and dental team make dental care fun for children, establishing a positive foundation that leads to a lifetime of oral health. 

Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment. 

Sedation dentistry is a helpful, and sometimes necessary, tool when it comes to children’s dental care. It is common for children to be nervous or fearful of receiving dental care, but sedation can make the experience more comfortable and relaxing. 

If your child needs sedation for an upcoming dental visit, you may have some questions. Is sedation dentistry safe for children? What types of sedation are available? Learn the answers to these questions and more about pediatric sedation dentistry. 

What is Sedation Dentistry? 

Sedation dentistry is the use of medicated relaxation assistance for dental procedures. Sedation can be administered in a variety of forms with varying levels of consciousness. But the ultimate goal is for the patient to feel more comfortable and experience less stress. 

Types of Sedation Used in Dentistry 

The following types of sedation may be used in pediatric dentistry:

• Nitrous oxide. Nitrous oxide is a gas that is administered through a mask placed over the nose. As the child breathes it in they begin to feel more relaxed and less aware of what is going on around them. 

• Conscious oral sedation. An oral sedative can be prescribed in pill or liquid form that provides a slightly deeper level of sedation. The child can take the sedative before their appointment so that it has time to take effect before treatment begins. 

• IV sedation. An even deeper level of sedation can be achieved with IV sedation. It is administered through a needle placed in the arm. The child will be conscious, but they will have little to no memory of the procedure afterwards. 

• General anesthesia. The deepest level of sedation used in dentistry is general anesthesia. This is the same level of sedation that is used for most surgical procedures. It is administered in an out-patient or hospital setting where the patient can be closely monitored. 

Risks and Side Effects of Sedation

Most types of sedation are safe for most patients. The risks and side effects are minimal in most cases. Nitrous oxide wears off in just a few minutes following the procedure. It has the least amount of risk associated. Conscious oral sedation also has a very low risk and minimal side effects. IV sedation typically has a stronger effect on the patient, meaning they will need a longer period of rest following their procedure. General anesthesia comes with the highest level of risk, which is why it is only administered in a hospital setting. 

A complete medical history and list of medications will be gathered to ensure that sedation is a safe option for the patient. If there are any medical conditions or concerns, approval from your pediatrician may be required. 

Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry offers many benefits, such as:

• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Helps children develop a positive association with dental care
• Parents worry less about their child’s emotional well-being
• Children can get the dental care they need in a safe environment 

Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry

Can my child go back to school or resume regular activities after sedation? 

Nitrous oxide is the mildest form of sedation and it wears off in a matter of minutes. Your child can go about the rest of their day as if nothing is different, unless the procedure itself calls for additional rest. 

Can you still feel pain when under sedation? 

Whether or not you can feel pain depends on the type of sedation. During nitrous oxide, conscious oral sedation, and IV sedation some local anesthesia is typically used as well to ensure the patient is comfortable. With general anesthesia, the patient is completely unconscious and cannot feel pain. 

Where Can I Find a Pediatric Dentist Who Offers Sedation? 

If you think your child may benefit from sedation dentistry, Kids & Teens Dental Place offers a variety of options. We provide sedation so that our patients can get the dental care they need without any fear or stress. It helps parents breathe easier too. 

To learn more, contact us today and schedule an appointment. 

Is your child scared to go to the dentist? Dental anxiety is very common, especially in children. But there are ways to ease your child’s fears so that they can have a more positive experience at the dentist. If you want a less stressful experience at the dentist for you and your child, here are some suggestions. 

Keep a Positive Attitude

The way you talk about going to the dentist will set the tone for the way your child feels about the dentist. If you seem concerned or afraid, your child may pick up on that and begin to mirror your feelings. Convey a positive attitude about the dentist. Talk about how the dentist helps you keep your teeth clean for a healthy smile. Explain how going to the dentist means you’ll most likely keep your natural teeth for the rest of your life. 

Answer Questions But Avoid Giving Too Much Information 

Your child is bound to have questions about going to the dentist, especially if they are going for their first visit. Answer their questions, but don’t give too much information that may cause fear or anxiety. Don’t mention needles or drills or anything that sounds painful. Just explain in the very simplest form what their experience will entail, whether it is a routine dental cleaning or a filling. 

Take Them To The Dentist On a Regular Schedule

Children should go to the dentist every 6 months to have their teeth cleaned and an oral evaluation. Keeping up with this schedule not only goes a long way toward maintaining their dental health, it helps dental visits become more routine and common in their life, making the experience less intimidating. It also helps to prevent cavities that would result in the need for fillings or other restorative procedures. 

Be a Model Patient 

As a parent it is important to model the act of going to the dentist. When your child sees that you are not afraid to go to the dentist, they are less likely to be afraid. You can allow your child to accompany you to a routine dental cleaning and oral exam, but not for any other procedures. 

Take Your Child To a Pediatric Dentist 

There are definite benefits to taking your child to a pediatric dentist. When the dentists and dental team have experience working exclusively with children, they are more prepared to help your child feel comfortable. Pediatric dentists understand that young children need compassion and patience, and they are willing to provide extra time when needed. They establish a good rapport with kids, helping them feel at ease. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Anxiety

Can sedation be used to help children relax?

We offer sedation options to help ease anxiety and allow children to relax. Nitrous oxide is the most common form of sedation used for children. It is delivered through a mask over the child’s nose. As they breathe it in, a calming effect takes over. Then it wears off quickly when the child breathes regular room air. We also offer conscious oral sedation, IV sedation, and general anesthesia. 

Are children ever restrained if they refuse to cooperate?

We don’t believe in restraining patients for any reason, as it only makes dental anxiety worse. We prefer to work with children and their parents in positive ways to deliver necessary dental care. If a child cannot relax enough to allow us to provide care, we may recommend sedation. 

Why Choose Kids & Teens Dental Place? 

We are a pediatric dental practice specializing in special needs dentistry. If your child has dental anxiety, we are prepared to provide the compassionate care necessary to help them feel comfortable. Our welcoming staff and warm office environment puts children at ease. It is our goal to make dental care fun and lighthearted so that our patients look forward to coming to the dentist. 

Cavities are very common, especially in children, who are still learning how to properly care for their teeth. Most cavities can be easily treated to restore the health of the tooth. The sooner they are treated, the better. But how do you know if your child has a cavity? Here’s what you need to know.  

What is a Cavity? 

A cavity is a small pit or hole that forms in the enamel of a tooth. Cavities are caused by plaque, a sticky film made of food residue and bacteria that clings to the teeth. When it stays too long without being removed by brushing and flossing, the bacteria will slowly eat away the enamel, causing a cavity to form. 

Signs and Symptoms of Cavities 

If your child has a small cavity, they will most likely not even know it. Small cavities don’t always have noticeable symptoms. Here’s how you may be able to spot a cavity in the early stages. 

• Tooth staining. If you take a flashlight and shine it into your child’s mouth you may notice that one or more teeth have some white spots which is the earliest sign that a cavity may be forming. As the decay worsens the spots turn to dark yellow or brown stains. They most commonly form in the pits of the back molars. Be sure to conduct your inspection after your child brushes their teeth so you don’t mistake food residue for a cavity. 

As a cavity becomes larger and deeper into the enamel, there may be more noticeable symptoms, such as: 

• Sensitivity. The tooth may become sensitive to cold, heat, and sugar once the cavity deepens enough to reach the dentin, the soft layer under the enamel. 

• Toothache. The tooth may hurt if an infection develops from the opening the cavity created. 

• Pit or hole. You may be able to see a visible hole or pit in the tooth enamel once a cavity gets big enough. 

• Black spots. Cavities that have progressed will often turn black. 

Early Detection of Cavities 

When cavities are detected early, they are easier to treat. Small cavities can be treated with a simple filling, which preserves the natural tooth. It prevents the need for more complex treatment such as a root canal, and saves the tooth from being extracted. 

This is why preventive dental appointments should be scheduled every 6 months. A routine dental visit will include an oral evaluation to identify any health concerns, such as cavities or gum disease. It will also include a thorough cleaning of the child’s teeth to remove any plaque that remains after brushing and flossing. Dental X-Rays may be taken once a year to detect cavities that may be difficult to see. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Cavities

Is it worth it to fill a cavity in a baby tooth? 

Primary teeth, or baby teeth as they are more commonly known, do eventually fall out and are replaced with permanent teeth. If a tooth has a cavity, the dentist will determine how soon the tooth will be shed. If it is already loose, a filling will most likely not be necessary. If the tooth is going to be in place for a while yet, a filling will preserve the tooth until it is ready to come out. 

Can the tooth be pulled instead of filled? 

We don’t recommend extracting a tooth before it is ready to be naturally shed. If the permanent tooth is not ready to come in, the other teeth may shift into the gap and block the permanent tooth from coming in properly or at all. 

Schedule a Dental Visit Today

If it has been more than 6 months since your child’s last visit to the dentist, and if they are at least a year old, they are due for an appointment. Kids & Teens Dental Place provides comprehensive dental care for children and adolescents until they reach adulthood. We specialize in pediatric dentistry, providing for the specific dental needs of young people. 

Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment. 

Toddlers and teeth brushing may not seem like an easy combination. But teaching your toddler how to brush their teeth is not as hard as you would think. When children learn how to take care of their teeth from a young age, they are more likely to continue to take care of their teeth into adulthood. With the help of professional pediatric dental care and good oral hygiene habits at home, your child can have a healthy mouth and experience better overall wellness. 

Here are some tips and strategies to help your toddler be more willing and able to brush their own teeth. 

Make it Fun 

The best way to teach anything to toddlers is to make the experience as fun as possible. Practice using a fun timer, such as one that plays music for 2 minutes while they brush. Cheer them on and praise them when they brush their teeth. Have them look in the mirror and admire their clean, white teeth. Purchase toothbrushes with characters they like or ones that light up when they brush. All of these little details can be encouraging to toddlers and help them enjoy brushing their teeth. 

Watch a Video 

There are plenty of kid-friendly videos available on YouTube that teach proper brushing technique. These videos make it fun while teaching the fundamentals of brushing. Have your child watch on a tablet or phone while they brush so they can apply the skills they learn immediately. 

Model Proper Technique 

Teach your toddler how to brush their teeth by modeling proper brushing technique. Brush your teeth together with your child so that they can watch what you do and copy you. This also shows them that you are making the effort to keep your teeth clean as well, which emphasizes the importance of good oral hygiene and dental health. 

Practice on Toys 

Have your child practice brushing the teeth of a stuffed animal or other toy. Animal toys such as dinosaurs, sharks, tigers, and bears with visible teeth work well for practicing brushing. 

Brush Their Teeth Yourself After They Do 

After your toddler has brushed their teeth, take the toothbrush and brush over their teeth yourself as well. This helps them experience what proper brushing should feel like so that they understand how much pressure to apply and how to reach all of their teeth. It also ensures that you reach the spots that your child may have missed to avoid a buildup of plaque in certain areas that could cause cavities. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Brushing 

When can my child brush their teeth without help? 

Around the age of 8 or 9 your child may be able to brush their teeth effectively without assistance. However, it is still best to check up on them every now and then to ensure they are using proper technique and reaching all of their teeth. You know your child best and it is up to you when you feel confident enough to let them take on that responsibility. 

How often should my child brush their teeth? 

Children should brush their teeth twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. It is best for your child to avoid eating after brushing their teeth at night so that they go to bed with clean teeth. They should also avoid eating for a few hours after brushing in the morning. 

Schedule Your Child’s Dental Cleaning 

Has your child had a professional dental cleaning? The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children have their first dental visit around the age of one. If your child is due for their first appointment or if it has been more than 6 months since your child’s last dental cleaning, it is time for a visit to Kids & Teens Dental Place. 

Contact us today to learn more and schedule your appointment. 

Does your baby or toddler use a pacifier? Pacifiers are commonly used as a soothing mechanism for infants. But how do they affect dental health? There’s a lot to consider when it comes to pacifier use, such as when to discontinue use and how to make the transition easier. Here’s what you need to know about pacifiers and children’s dental health. 

Benefits of Pacifiers

Pacifiers have many benefits: 

• Helps babies sleep for longer stretches at night. 
• Reduces the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). 
• May soothe babies during travel, such as in the car or on planes.  
• Provides breaks for breastfeeding mothers. 

Proper Use of Pacifiers

If you choose to give your baby a pacifier: 

• Restrict use to bedtime and naps as much as possible. 
• Only use pacifiers when necessary, such as in situations where your baby is particularly fussy. 
• Be sure the pacifier is safe and approved for your child’s age. 
• Choose pacifiers with ventilation holes in the outer portion. 
• Keep your child’s pacifiers clean and routinely switch them out. 

Potential Problems From Pacifier Use 

When it comes to pacifier use in infancy, the effect on oral health is minimal. However, if pacifier use continues beyond the age of 24 months, some problems may develop, some of which could be long term. 

• Increased risk of tooth decay. 
• Negative impact on the growth and development of the mouth and teeth. 
• Increased risk of middle ear infection. 
• Greater chance of needing orthodontic treatment later in childhood or during the teenage years. 

The longer your child uses a pacifier into their toddler years and especially by the age of 3 or 4, the more likely the above problems may develop. A pacifier can cause the upper palate (roof of the mouth) to become malformed, which will most likely require orthodontic treatment to correct. Pacifier use in older children can also result in sleep disorders. 

Tips for Helping Your Child Give Up Their Pacifier

Helping your child give up a comfort item can seem daunting, but it is possible with some tips and tricks that many parents have tried. Here are some suggestions: 

• Cut the tip of the pacifier. By cutting off the tip of the pacifier it will not provide the desired gratification. 

• Exchange the pacifier for a reward. For older children, offer a reward in exchange for giving up their pacifier, such as a desired toy or activity. 

• “Lose” all of the pacifiers. Tell your child that the pacifiers are missing and that you can’t find them. 

• “Forget” pacifiers. Purposely leave pacifiers at home when going on a trip. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Pacifiers

Is it better for my child to use a pacifier than to suck their thumb? 

Pacifier use may be a better habit than thumb sucking, simply because a pacifier can be taken away. It is much more difficult to get a child to stop sucking their thumb than to stop using a pacifier. 

Are dental problems from pacifier use reversible? 

In some cases the alignment of the teeth and the shape of the jaw will correct itself after pacifier use is discontinued, and in other cases it will not. The longer your child uses a pacifier, the lower the chances that the situation will improve on its own. 

Talk To Your Dentist About Pacifier Use 

If you have questions or concerns about your child’s pacifier use, Kids and Teens Dental Place would be happy to help. We can assess the current development of your child’s teeth and mouth to determine if pacifier use is causing any problems. We can also provide assistance to help your child give up their pacifier. 

Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment. 

The loss of the first tooth is a significant milestone for children. It can be exciting and also a little frightening for some children. It can help to begin explaining what will happen as soon as the first loose tooth occurs in order to prepare your child for the loss of the tooth. Your dentist will also discuss tooth loss with your child during routine dental visits. 

 

When should your child start losing their baby teeth? Here’s what you need to know about the natural tooth shedding process. 

Average Age of the First Loose Tooth 

Children may experience their first loose tooth or the loss of it anywhere between the ages of 4 and 7. The average age is about 5 or 6, meaning children may start to see their peers losing their first teeth in kindergarten or first grade. 

Factors That Affect the Age of Tooth Loss

The biggest predicting factor of when a child will lose their first tooth is the age that their first tooth erupted. The earlier their first tooth comes in, the earlier they are likely to lose it. A child who had their first tooth before 6 months may lose a tooth before the age of 5. A child who had no visible teeth until 18 months or later may not lose a tooth until they are 6 or 7. 

Which Teeth Are Shed First? 

The first teeth that come in are the bottom front teeth for babies, and these are also the first teeth that become loose and fall out. The next two are the top front teeth, and then the next teeth in order moving toward the back of the mouth. 

By What Age Are All the Baby Teeth Shed? 

Most children will have lost all of their baby teeth by the age of 12 or 13 and have most of their permanent teeth in place. Shortly after this age the wisdom teeth begin to develop. The wisdom teeth may make their appearance between the ages of 17 and 25. 

What Causes the Loss of Baby Teeth? 

When the permanent teeth develop and become ready to erupt, they push against the roots of the baby teeth, causing them to wear away and dissolve. The tooth will gradually become loose due to the loss of root tissue and eventually fall out completely once it separates from the gum tissue. 

What if a Baby Tooth Gets Knocked Out Prematurely?

In the case of a knocked out baby tooth that was not ready to be naturally shed, a space maintainer may be needed to hold the space open for the permanent tooth. A baby tooth that still has the roots attached was not ready to fall out on its own. If the permanent tooth is close to the surface it may be ready to come in soon, and a space maintainer may not be necessary. 

Schedule a Dental Appointment 

Preventive dental care appointments should take place every 6 months. This includes teeth cleanings to remove plaque and oral examinations to assess the health of the teeth and mouth. If it has been more than 6 months since your child has been to the dentist, it is time to schedule an appointment with Kids & Teens Dental Place. 

Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Shedding 

Should I save my child’s baby teeth?

Some parents save teeth for sentimental value. There are also medical reasons to preserve your child’s baby teeth. Teeth contain stem cells that could be helpful in treating future illnesses. In order to save the stem cells, teeth need to be preserved in a tooth bank, a professional storage facility that specializes in the preservation of teeth. 

How much bleeding is normal with tooth loss?

When a child loses a tooth, even a baby tooth that was loose and ready to come out, some bleeding is normal. Apply pressure to the socket with some gauze until the bleeding stops. If the bleeding cannot be stopped, contact your dentist for assistance. For significant blood loss or if the child loses consciousness, call 911 or proceed to the nearest emergency department. 

Teething can be a difficult time for infants and parents. Your baby who used to sleep through the night suddenly begins waking frequently due to the discomfort of tooth eruption. As a parent you may have heard about teething from other parents or maybe you’ve read about it in parenting books. You may have some teething toys all ready for this inevitable phase. 

But what if your baby is not teething? Does this indicate a problem? When should your baby start getting teeth? Learn the answers to these questions and more about dentistry for infants. 

Average Age for Eruption of the First Tooth 

The first tooth typically shows up somewhere between 6 and 12 months. This is the average range, but some babies will get their first tooth before 6 months and others closer to 18 months. Developmental milestones occur at different times for children due to genetics and other factors. 

What if My Baby Has No Visible Teeth by 18 Months? 

Having no visible teeth by the age of 18 months is typically no cause for concern, but it may be time to see a pediatric dentist. An oral evaluation can provide some information about your baby’s dental health and the development of their teeth. 

Potential Causes of Delayed Tooth Eruption 

Tooth eruption may occur later than average for some infants due the following causes: 

• Genetics. Early or late tooth eruption tends to be passed on from generation to generation. If possible, ask your parents when you began teething, as this may give you an idea of when your baby will start.

• Premature birth or low birth weight. Babies that are born well before their due date or who are born with low birth weight may have delayed tooth eruption. Although a premature baby’s age is calculated from the time of birth, their developmental age is a bit younger. 

• Vitamin deficiency. A lack of essential vitamins, especially vitamin D, could lead to delayed tooth eruption. Vitamin D is essential for the development of bones and the absorption of calcium in the body, which affects tooth development. 

• Developmental disorders. A variety of developmental disorders may result in delayed tooth eruption.

When To Schedule Your Baby’s First Dental Visit 

Infants should have their first dental visit around the age of 12 months or within 6 months of the eruption of their first tooth, whichever comes first. Even if your child has no teeth by the age of one, they should have an oral examination to assess the health of the mouth and the development of the teeth under the gums. Starting dental care at an early age helps to establish the routine, making the experience less intimidating. 

Schedule an Appointment at Kids & Teens Dental Place

If your baby has their first birthday coming up, it is time to schedule a dental appointment. Kids & Teens Dental Place provides comprehensive dental care for infants and children of all ages.

Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Eruption 

How many teeth should my child have by the age of 2? 

The average child will have about 16 teeth by the age of 2 years. The 2 year molars are typically in place by the age of 30 months. If your child experienced delayed tooth eruption, it may be longer before the 2 year molars are present. 

What can I give my baby to soothe teething? 

Infant pain relievers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can provide some relief of teething discomfort. Cold (not frozen) teething rings can reduce pain and inflammation. If your baby is old enough for solid food, cold fruits and vegetables may also help. 

You may have heard of a pediatrician, but what is a pediatric dentist? As you might assume, a pediatric dentist provides dental care for children and teens. A pediatric dentist is different from a general dentist or family dentist who may serve patients of all ages. Pediatric dentists serve only infants, children, and adolescents. 

What makes a pediatric dentist different from other dentists? Here’s what pediatric dental practices do. 

Qualifications of a Pediatric Dentist 

A pediatric dentist must complete all of the qualifications of a general dentist. They must earn an undergraduate degree and then complete dental school to earn their DMD (doctor of medicine in dentistry) or DDS (doctor of dental surgery). Then they must complete a 2-3 year residency program in pediatric dentistry to earn a specialization in the field. 

Pediatric Dental Services 

Many pediatric dental services are the same as general dental services for adults, but some are specific to children. 

• Preventive and diagnostic. Children need regular teeth cleanings and diagnostic dental X-Rays. Pediatric dentists know what conditions are common for children and what to look for. 

• Restorative. Cavity fillings, root canals, and other restorative procedures are common for children’s teeth. 

• Cosmetic. In some cases children may need cosmetic dental services to improve their smiles. 

• Emergencies. Dental emergencies are common in children, such as toothaches and knocked out teeth. 

• Orthodontic screenings. Pediatric dentists periodically assess the position of the teeth and bite and may refer children to an orthodontist for treatment when the time is right. 

• Sedation. Children can often benefit from sedation to help make dental procedures less intimidating. 

Getting Started With Dental Care 

Children should begin receiving professional dental care around the age of one. By this age some of the baby teeth have probably come in and should be cleaned and examined. Many children don’t go to the dentist until they are 2 or 3, which is ok, but earlier visits make it easier for children to get used to the experience of dental appointments. A tooth is susceptible to decay as soon as it is visible above the gums, so as soon as your baby has teeth, they should be going to the dentist every 6 months. 

Typical Age Range for Pediatric Dentistry 

Pediatric dentists typically see patients from infants through teenagers. During these years children are growing and their dental needs are different from those of adults. The baby teeth come in, then they are gradually shed to make room for the permanent teeth, and during it all the jaw is growing. 

Transitioning to an Adult Dental Practice 

There is not a definite age when a teen must transition to an adult dentist, but most reach a point where they feel ready for a more adult setting. They can begin going to the same dentist as their parents, or their pediatric dentist may be able to recommend or refer them to a specific practice. You may also want to look for a place that is in-network with your dental insurance. 

Why Choose Kids & Teens Dental Place? 

If your child is ready to begin dental care, Kids & Teens Dental Place is currently welcoming new patients. We also accept patients transferring from other practices. With over 15 years of experience in pediatric dentistry, we know the specific needs of children and how to best provide dental care for young patients. 

Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric Dentistry 

Around what age should my child lose their first tooth?

Most children will lose their first tooth around the age of 5 or 6. This may vary depending on the child. The earlier your child’s first baby tooth erupted, the earlier they tend to lose it. 

How do I know if my child has a cavity? 

Regular oral examinations and dental X-Rays can detect cavities when they are very small and easy to treat. If your child has a visible cavity or a toothache, contact us and we will schedule an appointment. 

Are you looking for a dentist for your kids? Whether it's time for your baby’s first dental visit, you’re new to the area, or you simply need a change, it can be difficult to find a pediatric dental practice that meets all of your criteria. 

If you need to choose a pediatric dentist in the Houston, Texas area, here are some things to look for that all great dental practices have in common. 

Experience

Look for a pediatric dentist with plenty of experience. You want your child to be in capable hands, and a dentist who has been working with children for many years will be able to provide the best care for your child. Children have specific dental needs that differ from those of adults, and an experienced pediatric dentist knows how to meet those needs. They know what to look for and can quickly identify problems that may need to be addressed. 

Qualifications 

A pediatric dentist should have certain qualifications, such as a dental degree and license. When a dentist specializes in pediatric dentistry, they should have completed a residency or training program that involved working with children. Make sure that any dentist you are considering has the necessary qualifications to legally provide pediatric dental services. 

Kid Friendly

Look for a dental practice that is kid friendly with a warm and inviting atmosphere to put kids at ease. A pediatric dental practice should be fun and relaxed, making dental care enjoyable for children of all ages. The dentists and dental team should all know how to work with children and teens and how to talk to them so that they feel comfortable. 

Compassionate 

Children need compassion and understanding, especially if they feel anxious or afraid. Early experiences at the dentist will set the tone for their lifelong view of dental care. When a child feels safe and cared for, they will develop a positive association with dentistry that can lead to a lifetime of dental health. 

Technology 

Look for a pediatric dental practice with up to date technology. Advanced technology provides improved diagnostics and a higher level of care and comfort for children. Early detection of dental and oral health concerns result in better outcomes. Technology also makes procedures less invasive for faster recovery. 

Emergency Services 

Dental emergencies can occur when you least expect them. Choose a pediatric dental practice that offers emergency services after hours and on weekends. Emergencies can be frightening and stressful, but familiar surroundings and faces are reassuring to you and your child. 

Special Needs Training 

If you have a child with special needs, choose a dental practice that has dentists and staff that have the necessary training and experience. Not all pediatric dental practices are prepared to meet the diverse needs of children and teens, so choose carefully. 

Why Choose Kids & Teens Dental Place? 

Kids & Teens Dental Place meets all of the above criteria and more. If you’re looking for a dentist for your child(ren), we welcome you to our practice. Our highly qualified dentists have more than 15 years of experience in pediatric dentistry. Our office is kid friendly and equipped with the latest technology to deliver the best dental care. We have extensive training and experience working with children and teens with a wide range of diverse needs. 

To learn more, contact us today to schedule an appointment at one of our two convenient locations. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric Dentistry 

How often should kids and teens go to the dentist?

Routine dental cleanings and oral exams should take place every 6 months for optimal oral health. This is the ideal schedule for removing plaque that builds up on the teeth and for early detection of oral health concerns. 

When should my child have their first dental visit?

Children should have their first dental appointment around the age of one. By their first birthday most children have a few teeth in place that should be examined and cleaned. If your child is older than one and has not yet been to the dentist, it is never too late to start. Schedule an appointment today.