Pediatric Dentistry

It is important to begin bringing your child to the dentist at a young age, usually by their first birthday. Early exposure to dental care helps your child adjust to the environment and feel comfortable at our office. Our team is extremely gentle and compassionate to your child’s needs, and we strive to provide a calm, fun, and secure atmosphere.

We understand that, as a parent, you have a lot of questions about your child’s oral health, and their first visit in particular. When you bring your child to see our dentists, we will provide specific information and instructions regarding your child’s smile. We also invite you to refer to the following information as general guidelines:

When should I schedule my child’s first checkup?
Ideally, your child should see a dentist as soon as the first tooth appears, and no later than their first birthday.

What should I expect at my child’s first visit?
Your child’s initial visit with Drs. Terence and Casey Lau and our team serves the primary purpose of establishing a dental home for your child. We will meet with you and your child to get to know you both better and observe how your child reacts to a dental setting. We will also take a peek inside your child’s mouth to evaluate their oral health. Depending on your child’s oral health and comfort level, we may not perform a dental cleaning. If a dental cleaning is needed, our team will gently remove any food particles or plaque. If a dental problem is detected, such as cavities, we will discuss your child’s treatment and schedule their follow-up visit.

How often should my child see the dentist?
Dental visits in general should occur every six months. However, if your child is prone to cavities or shows signs of a dental issue, we may recommend more frequent visits to keep their smile healthy.

Are baby teeth really so important?
Absolutely. Your child’s baby teeth are the teeth that will help them learn proper chewing and speech habits. Baby teeth also serve as placeholders for the permanent teeth. If a baby tooth is lost prematurely, the permanent tooth may erupt improperly. It is important to care for your child’s teeth to prevent painful cavities and help them develop healthy habits that will benefit their permanent teeth later in life.

How can I help my child develop healthy habits?
Children learn best through repetition. It is important for them to brush and floss their teeth at least twice a day under your supervision. Until a child is old enough to manage their own toothbrush, they will need you to care for their smile. Explaining the importance of a healthy smile will help them grasp the necessity of daily oral care. Children also learn by example, so let them see you practicing good oral hygiene, too.

If you have further questions about your child’s oral health or would like to schedule their appointment, contact our office today.