Children's Dentistry
 Professional dentistry is an important part of maintaining excellent oral health, especially for children. At Downing Dental, we pride ourselves on being a family-friendly office! We know that dentistry can be a scary thought for some kids, which is why our office is designed to make your child's visit fun, friendly, and comfortable. If your child is in need of preventive, restorative, emergency or even cosmetic dentistry, you have come to the right place!
Your Child's First Visit
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), you should schedule your child's first appointment between the arrival of the first tooth and their first birthday. If possible, try to schedule the appointment during the morning, when children tend to be rested and cooperative. The first appointment is usually short and involves little to no treatment.
Most of the time, Dr. Kenneth Downing performs a simple exam to ensure there are no problems with your child's existing teeth. If we notice any symptoms of decay, we may recommend a quick cleaning with our dental hygienist. We will also educate you on the oral health care basics for infants and children. After their first appointment, you should schedule a checkup every six months, so we can monitor the development of the teeth, and prevent potential complications.
The Importance of Good Oral Hygiene for Kids
Your child’s primary (baby) teeth can affect the future of their smile. Our job is to help them establish a strong oral health foundation that follows them into adulthood. Their primary teeth serve as placeholders for their permanent ones. If a primary tooth is lost prematurely, the remaining teeth may shift out of their proper position. This can lead to eruption problems with permanent teeth. Permanent teeth usually erupt between the ages of six and 12.
It is important to make sure your child has a proper oral hygiene routine, as children are particularly susceptible to tooth decay. Be sure they are brushing their teeth at least twice a day, especially after meals and before bed. They should also floss their teeth once a day to remove excess food debris and plaque.
Diet and nutrition can also affect your child’s oral health. The harmful bacteria in plaque love to feed on sugars and other simple carbohydrates. Be sure to limit your child’s exposure to sugary snacks and drinks. If they do need a snack, fruits and vegetables are a healthy alternative to chips, cookies, and candies.
Fluoride Treatment and Dental Sealants
During your child’s routine appointment we typically recommend a fluoride treatment, especially if they are at a greater risk for tooth decay. Fluoride treatment deposits minerals back into the enamel, strengthening it against acid attacks from bacteria. In some cases, fluoride treatment can even reverse microscopic instances of decay. Fluoride comes in several forms, including gels, foams, rinses, and varnishes. Talk with Dr. Kenneth Downing to learn more about your child’s fluoride options.
Once the permanent molars and premolars erupt, we may also recommend dental sealants. These teeth have deep grooves and fissures that are hard to clean, particularly for children. A dental sealant is placed on the occlusal (biting) surface to protect the tooth and allow for easier brushing.
Schedule Your Child’s Appointment
If you would like to schedule your child’s appointment call (503) 534-6829 today!
FAQs
What is children’s dentistry?
Children’s dentistry focuses on helping infants, children, and teens develop healthy teeth and gums as they grow. At Downing Dental, our dental team provides preventive care, monitors development, and helps children build positive dental habits from an early age.
When should my child have their first dental visit?
Children should usually have their first dental visit around the time their first tooth appears or by their first birthday. Early visits allow our dentists to check development, answer parent questions, and help your child become comfortable with dental care.
How often should children see the dentist?
Many children benefit from dental checkups and cleanings about every six months, but some may need a different schedule based on cavity risk, oral hygiene, tooth development, or existing dental concerns. Our dental team can recommend a visit frequency that supports your child’s oral health.
Are dental sealants helpful for children?
Yes, dental sealants can help protect the chewing surfaces of back teeth where food and bacteria often collect. Sealants create a thin protective layer over grooves in the teeth, which can lower the risk of cavities in areas that are difficult for children to brush well.
How can I help my child prevent cavities at home?
You can help prevent cavities by encouraging your child to brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss once teeth begin touching, limit sugary snacks and drinks, and drink water often. Downing Dental can also provide age-appropriate tips to make home care easier.
What if my child feels nervous about the dentist?
It is common for children to feel nervous before a dental visit. Our dentists use gentle communication, explain care in kid-friendly terms, and work at a comfortable pace to help children feel more at ease while building trust with the dental team. |
