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Dentistry For Children
The field of pediatric dentistry focuses on the oral health needs of children from birth through the late teenage years. Children who have a positive experience at the dentist during their formative years grow up understanding the importance of good oral hygiene and preventive care. It is essential that your children know that caring for their baby teeth now is just as important as caring for their permanent teeth later.
Dr. Jason Dulgarian of Citrus Valley takes a different approach to treating children, including those who have special physical and emotional health needs. He understands that these young patients are not adults and that they need someone to speak to them in their own language. However, he doesn’t talk down to your kids. He just avoids words that might cause fear and uses scaled to size models to explain what he is doing. Dr. Dulgarian and the staff at Citrus Valley teach young patients exactly how to brush and floss so they can feel proud of a job well done.
Special Dental Procedures for Children
To get kids off to a great start with their oral health, Dr. Dulgarian may recommend one or all of these procedures:
- Fluoride Treatments: Fluoride contains minerals and other substances that strengthen the teeth in addition to keeping the enamel as healthy as possible. We typically give pediatric patients a fluoride treatment during each routine cleaning appointment.
- Dental Sealants: Dr. Dulgarian places dental sealants over the surface of the back teeth to prevent bacteria from entering the teeth and causing decay. This procedure is especially critical for children who are around 6 and 12 years of age since this is the time when the first and second sets of molars erupt.
- Mouth Guards: Children who play any type of sport should always protect their teeth with a mouth guard. This may also be an option for a child who is a chronic thumb-sucker when early damage to the teeth is apparent.
Please contact us at Citrus Valley to schedule an appointment for an exam and cleaning or to learn more about what to expect.
We’re Here to Serve Your Entire Family
Dr. Dulgarian and his staff enjoy working with families who have young children and watching them grow through the years. As a father of five young children himself, Dr. Dulgarian truly cares about the comfort of his young patients. If you’re looking for a dental clinic that offers regular care for every family member, look no further than Citrus Valley. We encourage you to schedule your child’s first dental appointment by the first birthday to get him or her off to a great start. After that, we should see your child twice a year just as we do for adults.
What to Expect During Your Child’s First Dental Visit
The first dental appointment of a child does not take too much time and does not pose any risk. A dental professional checks the condition of the teeth, the gums, and the general dental development. Cleaning and recommendations regarding how to look after the child’s teeth might be provided. It is important to note that parents receive valuable advice concerning brushing, nutrition, and other factors that can influence dental health.
Common Dental Problems in Children
There is a wide variety of problems children may face regarding their teeth. In particular, cavities are quite a common problem among kids. It usually results from eating unhealthy food, improper brushing, and poor hygiene. Other conditions include gum irritation, tooth sensitivity, and early tooth loss. Sucking a thumb or using a pacifier for too long may negatively impact teeth alignment.
Preventive Dental Treatments for Kids
Children need to take preventive measures to ensure the well-being of their dental structure. Some common measures include cleanings, which remove excess plaque, fluoridation to harden enamel and minimize decay, and dental sealants that coat the chewing surfaces of teeth. This not only prevents any major issues from arising but also ensures that the child continues to maintain good oral health in the future.
Tips for Maintaining Your Child’s Oral Health at Home
Parents must remember that oral care at home is just as important as visits to the dentist. Children must brush at least twice daily with a fluoridated toothpaste, while they should also be flossing once their teeth touch each other. Parents should make sure that kids limit sugary foods and beverages, and encourage them to consume lots of water and have a balanced diet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When should I take my child to the dentist for the first time?
Your child should receive his or her first dental appointment either after their first birthday or at the age of the first tooth growth.
2. How frequently should children visit the dentist?
The best thing for children’s teeth would be to visit the dentist twice a year (every six months).
3. How can I prevent cavities in my children's teeth?
There are many things you can do for that, including regular brushing and avoiding excessive sugar intake.
4. Are all dental services safe for children?
Yes, dental services for children are safe since they are performed in a comfortable way.