The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that the first dental visit should be within six months after the baby’s first tooth appears, but no later than the child’s first birthday. These early visits are crucial in detecting any potential problems and starting a good oral hygiene regimen.

Before the visit, try to talk positively about the experience, explaining that the dentist is a friendly doctor who will help keep their teeth strong and healthy. Reading them children’s books about going to the dentist can also help. During the visit, stay calm and positive to help your child feel more at ease.

Even though they are temporary, baby teeth (primary teeth) play a vital role in your child’s development. They help in proper chewing and nutrition, speech development, and they also hold space for the permanent teeth. If a child loses a baby tooth too early, it could lead to problems with the proper development and alignment of their permanent teeth.

Yes, fluoride toothpaste is recommended for children. For children under 3 years old, a smear the size of a rice grain should be used. For children 3-6 years old, a pea-sized amount is appropriate. Make sure your child spits out the toothpaste after brushing and doesn’t swallow it. Fluoride strengthens the tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay.

Yes, dental X-rays are very safe for children when performed with modern equipment and low-radiation techniques. At Embrace Family Smiles, we use digital X-rays, which emit significantly less radiation than traditional film. X-rays help our pediatric dentist monitor your child’s dental development and detect cavities or other concerns that may not be visible during a visual exam.

If your child chips, breaks, or knocks out a tooth, contact our office right away. Pediatric dentistry includes emergency care for dental injuries, and our team can guide you through the steps to take before your visit. In the meantime, rinse your child’s mouth with warm water, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, and bring any broken pieces of the tooth with you to the appointment.

Yes, prolonged thumb-sucking or pacifier use can affect how your child’s teeth grow and develop. Most children stop these habits on their own by age 3 or 4. If the behavior continues past that age, our pediatric dentist can offer guidance and strategies to help your child stop and avoid long-term effects on their bite or jaw development.

Dental sealants are a valuable part of preventive pediatric dentistry. They are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to help prevent cavities. Sealants are especially helpful for children with deep grooves in their molars and are typically applied when the permanent molars first come in, around ages 6 and 12.

We generally recommend that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Even if braces aren’t needed right away, our team can monitor jaw and tooth development to catch alignment issues early. Pediatric dentistry works closely with orthodontics to ensure your child’s bite and smile develop properly.

Children should see the dentist every six months for cleanings and exams, just like adults. Regular visits help us monitor their development, reinforce good hygiene habits, and address problems before they become more serious. Our dental team creates a positive and friendly experience to make every visit something your child can feel good about.