Children’s Dentistry -- Denton, TX

Why choose Prime Dentistry of Denton for children’s dentistry?

• A kid-friendly team your child will love
• Prevent cavities to keep their growing smile healthy
• Affordable dental care for the whole family

When Should My Child Visit the Dentist?

It may seem early, but the American Dental Association’s recommendation is for a child to visit the dentist for the first time around age 1, with regular checkups and cleanings beginning no later than their third birthday. Starting routine dental care early is the best way to help your little one avoid cavities and ensure any issues with dental development are detected early.

What to Expect during Your Child’s First Visit 

We always block off plenty of time for a child’s first dental appointment. We want to make sure this visit is laid-back and starts your little one off with a great impression of what it means to visit the dentist! Your child will sit in your lap throughout the appointment, while we take a quick look in their mouth and answer any questions you may have about how to care for their growing smile. After the visit is over, we will send your little one home with a small prize and make plans for you both to come back for another checkup in about 6 months.

Kid-Friendly Dental Care

Taking care of a child’s smile requires a gentler approach -- and that is just what you can count on from our team of experts! We are all funny, friendly, and relaxed to help make sure everyone feels comfortable and at ease.

Dental Sealants

Kids are at the greatest risk of developing cavities between the ages of 6 and 14. Dental sealants help protect against cavities by providing a shield between the tooth enamel and food particles/sugars which can accelerate the rate of decay. Dental sealants can be applied in a few minutes at the end of a routine appointment and offer years of protection against cavities.

Fluoride

A topical fluoride treatment strengthens tooth enamel to help protect against weak spots which turn into cavities. We recommend this treatment at the end of a checkup and cleaning for most kids -- and even some cavity-prone adults!

At-Home Tips for Oral Health

Taking care of your child’s smile at home requires pretty much the same steps that you take for your own teeth and gums. Make sure they brush for two minutes, twice a day, and that they floss between teeth daily. Some kids don’t like dental hygiene, though -- so you may need to keep these tips in mind.

Steps for at-home hygiene for kids:

• Start a progress chart and set rewards for consistent brushing and flossing
• Model good behavior by taking care of your own smile
• Have everyone brush and floss their teeth together

Children’s Dentistry FAQs

Want your child to take better care of their oral health? Need help to find ways in which you can encourage them to spend time brushing, flossing, and rinsing? At Prime Dentistry of Denton, we know it’s not always easy, but our team is here to help care for their growing smile as well as providing tips and techniques you can use at home to ensure their smile remains cavity-free. Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about children’s dentistry. We invite you to review the following information and contact our office for any additional inquiries you may have about your child’s dental health. A children’s dentist in Denton will be happy to answer your questions and address any concerns.

What is the best way to prepare my child for their first visit?

If you want to make sure their initial visit is a success, a few things you can do at home include:

• Maintaining a positive attitude. Children often pick up on anxiety, fear, and negative comments, so be sure to stay positive about their upcoming appointment and remind them of how important it is to let a dentist take care of their smile.
• Show them pictures of the dentist’s office and staff members to help them become familiar with what and who they will see when arriving for their visit.

How should I clean my baby’s teeth?

Before your baby’s first tooth appears, it is best if you use a damp washcloth to gently wipe their gums free of any residue left behind from feedings. This will keep their gums healthy and clean. Once their first tooth erupts, you can use a finger brush or a small toothbrush with soft-bristled to carefully clean the tooth. Once a few of your child’s teeth begin to appear, you will only need a smear of toothpaste (the size of a grain of rice), as your baby will be unable to spit any excess out of their mouth.

Are dental X-rays necessary for my child?

Once your little one reaches the age of 2 or 3, it will be necessary for us to begin taking dental X-rays. These images allow our team to review what is happening beneath the gums to ensure there are no issues with alignment or problems of infection developing. Fortunately, the use of digital X-rays allow us to minimize the amount of radiation and produce more precise and accurate images, which can better assist our team should we need to formulate a treatment plan for your child.

Why are baby teeth important?

Baby teeth work like placeholders for permanent teeth. While it is true that they will “just fall out someday,” it’s necessary that they remain in place as long as possible. Should a baby tooth fall out too early, it can pose a significant problem to their adult teeth. Nearby baby teeth will begin to shift out of alignment in an attempt to fill the space. To prevent this, your child’s dentist will need to insert a space maintainer or alternative method of treatment to keep healthy teeth in place until the permanent tooth erupts.

What should I do if my child uses a pacifier or sucks his or her thumb?

These non-nutritive habits are common at a young age; however, overuse can lead to serious problems with alignment and tooth eruption. Should you be concerned that your child’s smile could be hindered by these comfort solutions, let us know. We will be happy to offer tips and suggestions on ways to eliminate usage to prevent problems in your child’s smile.