Pediatric Dentist in Fair Oaks, CA
Despite your child’s initial set of teeth being temporary, they still necessitate diligent care. Our pediatric dentist in Fair Oaks, CA, advocate for your child’s dental health from the beginning. The role of primary teeth, often referred to as “baby” teeth, is pivotal and has a long-lasting impact on your child’s future dental health. So, don’t delay in starting your child on the path to great dental health! Reach out to us today to book an appointment. Your child’s smile is our priority!
What is Pediatric Dentistry?
Pediatric dentistry is a specialized branch dedicated to managing children’s oral health from infancy through adolescence. This specialty focuses on treatment along with education and prevention of dental issues.
Trained to understand the unique dental needs of children, pediatric dentists are adept at handling various aspects of oral care for the younger demographic. Their expertise spans from treating a simple cavity to managing more complex dental conditions and everything in between. Pediatric dentists are skilled in the nuances of child behavior and psychology, which helps them interact effectively with kids.
Services offered by pediatric dentists include routine check-ups, cavity fillings, tooth extractions, orthodontic evaluations, treatment of gum diseases, and dental injury care. Additionally, they offer preventive dental care like cleanings, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants.
Education plays a crucial role in pediatric dentistry. Pediatric dentists counsel children and their parents on the importance of good oral hygiene, proper diet, and preventive home care. By laying the groundwork for good dental habits early on, pediatric dentists help ensure a lifetime of healthy smiles.
With our pediatric dentists in Fair Oaks, CA, the Marconi Dental team provides comprehensive dental care tailored to the unique needs of each child. Our goal is to safeguard your child’s oral health and equip them with the knowledge and skills to maintain it.
Understanding the Importance of Primary Teeth
Your child’s first teeth are more than just placeholders for their permanent counterparts. In fact, they serve as crucial guides for the correct eruption of adult teeth, ensuring they align perfectly in the jaw. The crown of a permanent tooth pushes against the root of a baby tooth, enabling the adult tooth to emerge in the correct position.
More than that, primary teeth are pivotal for your child’s daily life, assisting in biting, chewing, and speaking. These teeth are present throughout most of their childhood, so it’s essential that a pediatric dentist ensures their health until adult teeth naturally replace them.
Your Child’s First Teeth
The first teeth typically appear between 6-9 months, although this timeframe can vary. The two lower front teeth are often the pioneers, followed by the two upper ones. The first molars are next in line, trailed by the canines. It’s normal for your child to experience discomfort during teething. Should this occur, there are ways to alleviate their distress and keep them comfortable. Simply call our office and ask for suggestions.
Proper oral hygiene early on is crucial. We recommend gently cleaning your baby’s gums and emerging teeth after every feeding using a water-soaked gauze pad or a damp washcloth.
Once more teeth start appearing, around age two, you should establish a daily brushing routine with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a small amount of fluoridated toothpaste. Until around age six, your child will likely need your assistance with this essential routine.
Visiting A Pediatric Dentist in Fair Oaks, CA
It might seem early, but the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends your child’s first dentist visit by their first birthday. The initial visit allows us to educate parents on proper pediatric oral hygiene techniques, check for early signs of cavities, and monitor any developmental issues.
Remember, several types of tooth decay can affect young children, with cavities progressing rapidly if not addressed. More importantly, ensuring your child has a positive dental experience is crucial as it sets the tone for their perspective on dental care, shaping their oral hygiene habits for years to come.
Understanding Pediatric Dental Treatments
A pediatric dentist in Fair Oaks, CA, offers several treatments to prevent tooth decay and repair teeth. These treatments include the following:
Topical Fluoride
Fluoride fortifies tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay. While toothpaste and some water supplies contain fluoride, a higher concentration applied by a professional offers maximum protection.
Dental Sealants
These plastic coatings seal the small crevices on the chewing surfaces of back teeth where bacteria thrive. Dental sealants are easy to apply and offer long-term protection from cavities.
Root Canal Treatment
Root canals aren’t just for adults. Sometimes, children need them too. Saving a baby tooth from premature loss can prevent a misaligned bite that might necessitate orthodontic treatment.
Bonding
Minor chips and fractures to front teeth can be repaired with tooth-colored bonding materials. These resins can be used on both primary and permanent teeth.
HealthyStart
At Marconi Dental, our pediatric dentists in Fair Oaks, CA, offer a natural, non-pharmaceutical, and non-invasive treatment plan that promotes proper oral habits, airway development, and straight teeth without braces.
Orthodontic and Athletic Considerations
By the age of seven, most orthodontic issues become noticeable. Early intervention can guide tooth positioning and jaw growth, mitigating or simplifying the need for future treatment. If your child is involved in sports, a custom-made mouthguard is highly recommended to protect against dental injuries.
Pediatric dentistry in Fair Oaks, CA, provides your child with the best start for their oral health. Contact us today to schedule your child’s dental appointment, and let’s embark on a journey toward lifelong dental well-being.
