Pediatric Dentistry
Gentle & Kind
Care for Kiddos
Children put the family in Abilene Family Dentistry! We’re delighted to help little ones learn how to take great care of their smiles as they grow. We know that dental offices can seem like scary places, but our warm atmosphere, gentle care, and educational approach are designed to help children feel more comfortable and encourage positive oral health habits. It’s important to us that all our patients feel safe and comfortable in our hands, especially children, because positive dental experiences at a young age may help support healthy habits over time.
Building Healthy Habits Starts Early
Schedule your child’s check-up today
Once Upon A Time
In a mouth far, far away… okay, we’re a little silly, but kids bring that side out of us. We want them to have fun before we start examining their mouths, and we think one of the best ways to put them at ease and help information stick is to make it fun—although a lot of the information we have to share may initially be directed to parents or caregivers, until your child is old enough to take their toothbrush into their own little hands.
You’ll want to bring your child in for their first visit shortly after you’ve celebrated their first birthday. However, their oral care should start earlier at home. Softly wiping their gums with a warm, wet washcloth after they’ve eaten or drank anything besides water can minimize acidity and bacteria and may also help keep the mouth clean during teething. This habit may soothe them as they teethe, too!
When their first baby (or deciduous) tooth pokes through the gums, you can begin gently brushing with a small, baby-sized toothbrush or finger brush and a teeny amount (think a grain of rice) of training toothpaste. Dental floss should be introduced as more teeth erupt and they begin to touch. Little ones generally need assistance flossing and brushing until around the age of six. We suggest supervising them as they develop the habit and doing so until you’re confident in their thoroughness.
Following the Leader
We know your child’s health and happiness are your top priority, and that’s why we want to help you instill good habits right from the beginning. Preventing tooth decay and gum disease may help reduce the risk of discomfort that can affect daily activities. These common infections may affect your child’s nutritional and emotional development, and their performance in school. If they suffer premature tooth loss, there may be an increased likelihood of orthodontic needs.
With a positive example set by the adults they love and good experiences at the dentist, the foundation for healthy oral habits can be set for your child. Parents and caregivers play an important role in reinforcing these habits at home, especially because you know the likes and dislikes of your little one. Are they all about Pokémon? Maybe you can give them a Poké Ball with a toothbrush and toothpaste inside and let them know it’s easier to “catch them all” when they take good care of their teeth at home. Speaking of cavities…
Sealants: A Layer of Protection
We’re big on prevention methods at Abilene Family Dentistry, and we focus on preventive care to support your child’s oral health. We understand that many families prefer to keep dental visits simple and focused on routine care.) Instead, we’re happy to support your child’s oral health in the form of dental sealants.
Dental sealants are thin coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of your child’s molars (back teeth). These surfaces are a favorite meeting spot for food debris and decay-causing bacteria that can be missed by children still perfecting their brushing technique. When dental sealants are applied, may help reduce the risk of cavities, based on clinical studies, and they can last for several years with proper care and regular dental visits.
Fluoride Treatments
Another helpful tooth decay prevention method comes in the form of fluoride varnishes. The magic of fluoride lies in its ability to remineralize tooth enamel. The acidity of food and beverages your child consumes combined with bacteria and plaque create the perfect storm for enamel erosion. If enough of the enamel is eroded, the infection and decay can reach your child’s dentin and require fillings, or, if the infection claimed a large portion of healthy tooth structure, a crown. Fluoride may help reduce the risk of tooth decay, based on clinical research. This means healthy diets and hygiene habits will still be necessary to keep up on!
Help Them Form Healthy Habits
If you have any questions about pediatric dentistry or would like to schedule a visit with your Abilene dentists, Dr. Webb and Dr. Awtrey, give us a call today or schedule an appointment online! We look forward to supporting your child’s oral health.
Disclaimer: The content of this page is not intended to be a substitute for professional dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified dental professional with any questions you may have regarding your oral health. Individual results may vary.
