If you are in the Stoney Creek area, and looking for a dentist for your little one, you will be pleased to know in many cases a general dentist can offer the needed dental care for an infant or child. Some dental offices are very family-friendly, and experienced in caring for children.
You don’t want to have to take your child for long trips, making your little one tired and frustrated before even starting the appointment. The good news is that there are options in Stoney Creek for your child’s dental needs.
Finding a dentist your child is comfortable with is critical, to ensure these early dental experiences are positive ones.
General Dentistry and Dental Care
For most infants and children without developmental concerns, a general dental professional who is experienced in treating children can handle most of their dental care needs.
Regular Visits and Care
The important thing is to start taking your child in for routine checkups, cleanings, and preventative dental care, which a general dentist can provide.
The Canadian Dental Association recommends babies have their first dental visit right after the first tooth emerges, or by age one. This lets your child become accustomed to dental treatments to help prevent anxieties later, and let the dentist perform preventative treatments and ensure there are no concerns.
Baby Teeth Are Important
Even though baby teeth will fall out, regular professional cleaning and exams are important, since tooth decay in baby teeth and infection can spread and impact permanent teeth. Other issues that may require orthodontic care or early treatment can also be identified and addressed. It’s also important to start good life-long habits; learning to care for baby teeth helps children learn how to care for their permanent ones.
Preventative Dental Care
A general dentistry professional can provide important preventative treatments that your child’s teeth will benefit from.
Fluoride Treatments
Professional fluoride treatments help ensure healthy teeth for your child, especially in those early years when oral hygiene may not be optimal.
Fissure Sealants
Fissure sealants protect children’s teeth in areas that are hard to clean properly and are prime spots for decay. A clear or white protective layer is painted into the pits of molars to act as a barrier against bacteria and plaque.
Orthodontics
As your child grows, braces or other orthodontic work for a healthier smile may be needed. A dentist can refer you to an orthodontist for a consultation.
Cavities in Your Child’s Teeth
Cavities should be filled, as soon as possible, whether they are in baby or permanent teeth, to prevent pain and spreading infection and decay. Getting a filling is fairly quick, and not painful, so it shouldn’t be an unpleasant experience for your child. Leaving it untreated can lead to infection of the jaw bone, abscesses, and damage to permanent teeth. If baby teeth are lost prematurely, other teeth may shift into it, so there is no room for the permanent tooth to come in.
Referrals
Developmental concerns are rare, but if your child has one, a pediatric dentist may be needed to treat it. Your family dentist can refer you to a pediatric dentist if it is required.
Finding a Dentist
Ask family and friends for recommendations, and research the reviews for a dental clinic before committing. You can also request a dentist’s credentials, and call or visit the office to become more familiar with them.
The atmosphere is especially important when choosing a dentist for your child. A friendly, welcoming environment is critical, and the dentists and oral hygienists should be comfortable working and communicating with children in an age-appropriate way.
You also want to choose a dentist that takes time and performs full diagnostics before beginning work, explains any concerns clearly to you, makes recommendations for treatment plans, and then explains the pros and cons of any dental treatments.
If a dentist doesn’t meet your expectations, you should feel comfortable finding another one that is a better fit.
Gateshead Dental is conveniently located in Stoney Creek, and can offer general dentistry services for children. We have a friendly, welcoming environment, and love working with children! If your child requires the specialty services of pediatric dentists, we will refer you to a trusted professional.
He’s completed a number of additional courses to best serve his patients and be able to educate them too. No matter your age or dental condition Dr. Sims can assist you in a professional manner and loves answering any of your questions or concerns.
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