Here at My Dental Clinic, we make sure every child feels safe and at home. In fact, we have adult patients who have been with us since they were little kids.
Early dental visits are significant in shaping children’s oral health. We make sure that your child’s visit is positive and stress-free, setting the stage for amazing oral health for life.
Babies and children have unique dental needs. Dr. Chantal, our specialist pediatric dentist, has an in-depth understanding of children’s behavior and development. She is exceptional with kids and can put even the most anxious ones at ease.
As the name suggests, family dentists are well equipped to examine and treat the entire family, including children. However, pediatric dentists are specially trained to deal with children’s unique and developmental dental needs.
Think of pediatric dentists as the pediatricians of the dentistry world. They have expert training in providing outstanding dental care to babies, children, and teens. They understand children’s behavior and can treat even the most complex dental problems in children.
We recommend that you bring your child to his or her first appointment as soon as the first tooth erupts and no later than age one.
On the first visit, we will count your child’s teeth and check for signs of cavities. We will also examine your child’s bite and see if they are in good position and are developing properly. We always explain what we do before getting started and we show your child the tools that we use so he or she knows what to expect.
This is also the best time for you to ask the dentist about proper oral care at home and seek advice on common oral habits such as the use of pacifiers, mouth breathing, and thumbsucking.
To maintain your child’s oral health, we recommend that you take your child for a check-up and clean every six months. A check-up takes between 20 to 30 minutes and X-rays are only taken when required. Regular visits help build your child’s trust in the dentist and is key to preventing problems before they become more complicated.
To get the best out of the first visit, talk to your child about what to expect at the dentist, and don’t forget to be positive. If you are unsure about the procedure, you can always give us a call and we will explain everything to you in detail.
Try to get an appointment in the morning before any other activity that may stress your little one. Choose a time when your child is well-rested and avoid appointments during naptime. Give your child a light meal so he or she doesn’t go hungry during their visit.
Good oral hygiene and a healthy diet are fundamental to maintaining your child’s oral health. Start brushing at an early age. Use a clean, damp cloth or a soft baby toothbrush to gently massage your little one’s gum even before the first tooth erupts. This routine will make brushing a natural part of our child’s everyday life.
A nutritious diet benefits your child’s teeth, gums, and overall health. A diet high in sugars and starches increases your child risk of tooth decay. Avoid stocking your pantry with unhealthy snacks and be mindful of your child’s eating habits.
Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle of milk, juice, or any sweetened liquid. Protect your baby from tooth decay by putting him or her to bed with nothing more than a bottle of water.