Pediatric Care
Pediatric Dentistry
A child’s first visit to the dentist should be enjoyable. Children are not born with a natural fear of the dentist, but they can fear the unknown. Our office makes a special effort to use pleasant, non-frightening, simple words to describe each treatment. We want you and your child to feel at ease from the moment your family arrives at our office. The more you and your child know about the first visit, the better you feel.
Your child’s baby teeth will begin development before they are born, but when should you start to see the baby teeth come in?
These two diagrams, provided by Oral-B, are a great reference point for parents who are curious about what to expect as their child continues to grow.
Age 0 to 6 months
During this time, most children will not have any visible teeth. Around 6 months of age, you might begin to see signs of teething. We recommend rubbing ice or a clean finger over their gums to help sooth any irritation. Using a wet washcloth to rub over your child’s gums can also help keep things clean.
Age 6 to 12 months
Between the ages of 6 to 12 months, teeth should start to erupt in the mouth. When you are able to visibly see signs of baby (primary) teeth, it is time to make your child’s first dental appointment! We also recommend you begin introducing your child to brushing teeth before bed. It is safe to use a non-fluoridated toothpaste with only an amount the size of a grain of rice on their toothbrush. This helps to establish a good home hygiene routine early.
Age 12 months to 3 years
During this time frame, most if not all of your child’s baby teeth will have erupted and become visible in the mouth. We want to see your child every 6 months for an exam, or a “happy visit”. This introduces your child to the sights, sounds, and smells of the dental office. When your child turns 2 years old, you can switch to a children’s toothpaste with fluoride, and adjust to a pea sized amount on your child’s toothbrush.
Age 3 years+
After your child’s 3rd birthday, they are now able to start receiving regular professional cleanings at the dentist. During these appointments, one of our hygienists will complete a professional cleaning and preventative x-rays, followed by an exam by Dr. Pitt.
Age 5 to 16 years
Around age 5, your child will begin to lose baby (primary) teeth. This is normal, and a good thing! As baby teeth become loose, it is important that you and your child work to get those teeth out of this way. This makes room for grown-up (permanent) teeth to erupt. Leaving wiggly baby teeth in the mouth for too long can cause spacing issues down the road. Our office recommends your child begin using a normal amount of fluoridated toothpaste to brush in the morning and at night.
Age 16-18 years
By this time, your child will have lost all of their baby teeth. We will begin to monitor wisdom teeth, and discuss removal if necessary. When your child turns 18, they will no longer be considered “pediatric”.