Pediatric Dentistry

A child’s dental care needs are very different from those of an adult. For starters, a child goes through 2 sets of teeth: their "milk" or primary teeth, and their permanent (secondary) teeth. The development of these 2 sets of teeth requires just the right amount of minerals like calcium and fluoride, as well as timely check-ups and treatments at a qualified doctor’s office.

The latter is important, a child’s dentist needs to understand the psychological needs of children as well as what makes their teeth and soft tissues different. For this reason, we offer a host of a  full suite of pediatric dental services - some of which you can read about below.

The First Visit

During the first visit, it’s important to let the child see that they’re in a safe place with people they can trust. If necessary, your child can come in to meet their doctor in advance of their visit to the dental office - and _even on a separate day. Our child-friendly waiting room will provide a relaxing, fun environment for this to happen.

Complete Check-Ups and Preventive Treatments

It’s unfair to ask a child to have perfect dental hygiene. Brushing and flossing teeth correctly is hard for many adults, let alone young individuals still figuring things out. Kids like sweets and other foods that cause caries – and because they’re not always in tune with their bodies, tooth damage, and dental disease can both go unnoticed.

For this reason, it’s a good call to have regularly scheduled check-ups to make sure your child’s teeth are healthy. It’s the simplest way to get peace of mind, and the knowledge that your child’s mouth and teeth are both 100% healthy.

During your complete check-ups, your dentist may offer preventive treatments that will protect your child from problems before they arise. One example of preventive treatment is fluoride application, these treatments involve applying a concentrated fluoride solution directly to the teeth by your dentist for a short period to help strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. 

Emergency Dentistry

Sometimes, you don't know you've got a problem until it's too late. This is especially true when you have a child who isn't always aware of tooth decay, gum disease, and enamel damage until it starts to hurt. (Not to mention that kids are also prone to losing their teeth during vigorous, parent-unapproved physical activity).

We understand all of this, which is why we make it easy as possible to get emergency dentistry services for your child. All you have to do is call us at (781) 767-1400 and we’ll help you solve your problem, even if you’ve got no time to wait and/or are traveling in our area.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How can I prepare my child for their first pediatric dentistry visit?

To prepare your child for their first pediatric dentistry visit, start by talking to them about the importance of dental care and what to expect during the appointment. Choose a pediatric dentist with a kid-friendly office environment and staff trained to work with children. Bring along comfort items such as a favorite toy or blanket to help your child feel at ease.

Q: What preventive treatments are available to protect my child's teeth from cavities?

Several preventive treatments can help protect your child's teeth from cavities, including dental sealants, fluoride treatments, and regular dental cleanings. Dental sealants are thin protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth to prevent bacteria and food particles from causing decay. Fluoride treatments strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to acid attacks and decay.

Q: When should I seek emergency pediatric dentistry services for my child?

You should seek emergency pediatric dentistry services if your child experiences severe tooth pain, dental trauma, or sudden swelling in the mouth or face. These situations may indicate a dental emergency requiring immediate attention. Prompt treatment can alleviate discomfort, prevent further complications, and preserve your child's oral health.

Q: How can parents encourage good oral hygiene habits in their children at home?

Parents can encourage good oral hygiene habits in their children by leading by example, supervising brushing and flossing routines, and making oral care fun and rewarding. Establishing a regular oral hygiene routine, limiting sugary snacks and beverages, and scheduling routine dental checkups are essential for maintaining your child's oral health.

Q: What are the benefits of early orthodontic evaluation and intervention for children?

Early orthodontic evaluation and intervention can identify potential orthodontic issues, such as malocclusions or crowded teeth, at an early age. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent more severe problems from developing later on and may reduce the need for extensive orthodontic treatment in the future. Early intervention can also improve your child's oral health, self-esteem, and overall well-being.