Children Dentistry

What is children’s dentistry?

Children dentistry, or pediatric dentistry, specializes in oral health for children from birth through adolescence. Goodman Dental Center recommends all children visit the dentist for their first appointment by the age of four years old. Starting with the first visit, your child should visit the dentist twice each year for dental cleanings and exams to detect developing problems or cavities. Dr. Goodman and the team go out of their way to ensure your child has a positive experience at their dental appointments, so they are happy to return every six months.

What happens at a children’s dentistry appointment?

During your child’s first few dental checkups, the dental hygienist carefully cleans your child’s teeth. Then, the dentist evaluates your child’s oral health and risk of tooth decay. Depending on the needs of your child, Dr. Goodman might:

• Take dental X-rays
• Apply molar sealants to prevent cavities in hard-to-brush areas
• Repair cavities
• Evaluate how your child’s upper and lower teeth come together
• Recommend orthodontic treatments
• Recommend mouth guards for sports activities

Your dentist also discusses oral health risks as your child gets older, such as risks associated with consuming sugary beverages and foods, eating disorders, using chewing tobacco, or getting oral piercings.

How can my child prevent cavities?

Cavities happen when food is not brushed away from the teeth and bacteria forms. The enamel softens over time and leaves a hole. Preventing cavities starts with good oral hygiene habits at home, including twice-daily flushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing. Limit sugary foods, juice, soda, candy, and gum and make sure your child rinses and brushes after consuming sugary snacks.

As your child’s molars grow in, your dentist can help prevent decay by applying sealant on the back teeth to help prevent bacteria from settling into those hard-to-reach areas. The best way to prevent cavities is to see the dentist twice per year for professional cleaning and dental exams.

If your child is ready for his or her first dental appointment or is in need of a dental cleaning or exam, call Goodman Dental Center, or schedule an appointment online.