Depending on your child’s comfort level, the “Baby and Me” visit may include: A gentle, but thorough examination of the teeth, jaws, gums, bite and oral tissues. Demonstration of appropriate home care techniques/preventive strategies. A Fluoride Varnish application (if indicated). Plenty of time for questions and answers. No dental X-rays will be taken. A review of dietary guidelines for decay prevention.
After the examination and diet/nutrition analysis, we will be able to provide you and your child with a preventive plan individually tailored to your child’s oral health assessment. Most importantly, practical tips for you as parents will be given on how to implement this plan for your child.
Once your child is comfortable, the doctor will: Gently examine the teeth, jaws, bite, gums, and oral tissues. Review at what point dental X-rays are indicated based on a patient-specific risk assessment for dental decay. Discuss with you any treatment indicated. Put together a preventive plan that is tailored to your child’s specific needs.
At Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontic Specialists, we understand children have different needs and comfort levels. We frequently recommend scheduling a separate cleaning appointment after the initial examination so that we make dental hygiene and dentist visits a normal and essential part of their lives
Preventive Services: At each stage of dental development, there are important hallmarks for prevention that we will thoroughly review with you to optimize your child’s oral health. These may include:
Diet counseling: We converse with parents regarding the child’s diet. Does the child eat between meals? Do they lean towards eating sugary carbohydrates or protein? We are able to determine their risk level and recommend alternatives as part of our prevention program.
Hygiene: Daily brushing, proper flossing, and regular cleanings contribute to healthier teeth and gums. Optimal oral health contributes to a healthier body.
Growth and Development: Guidance/monitoring of dental/skeletal growth and development.
Sealants: A plastic sealant material that is flowed into the grooves of at-risk teeth to prevent decay.
Xylitol: A unique sugar substitute that reduces plaque and directly inhibits the effect of bacteria in causing tooth decay.
Mouthguards: Made for kids who participate in sports or activities that place them at risk for dental trauma.
Fluoride: A natural mineral that makes tooth enamel more resistant to the acid from bacteria that causes tooth decay. Fluoride also helps repair areas where acid attacks have already begun.
Prevent problems today, your children will thank you tomorrow.