Three Questions to Ask Your Child's Pediatric Dentist at Their Next Visit
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Healthy gums and teeth are essential for both children and adults. Unfortunately, children are often susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease due to high sugar intake, poor dental hygiene habits, oral trauma, genetics, or a combination of many factors. At WindHaven Pediatric Dentistry, we provide preventive and restorative care for families, meeting their dental needs and keeping their smiles healthy. Pediatric dentist Dr. Karrie Lee works with kids near Aubrey, TX.
What is pediatric dentistry?
Pediatric dentistry is a specialized practice that involves licensed clinicians providing dental care for kids. This includes dental examinations, professional cleanings, oral surgeries, and treatments that aim to improve oral health or prevent damage to the teeth, gums, or jawbone. At WindHaven Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Lee takes special care to develop strong relationships with her patients so that kids feel safe and comfortable during their dental visits.
At what age should my child start going to a pediatric dentist?
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), patients should start attending dental examinations within six months after their first baby tooth emerges. Once an infant comes to their first dental appointment, Dr. Lee can help the family determine how often they should attend examinations until more teeth appear. Once the majority of baby teeth have come in, kids typically attend dental examinations once every six months.
Benefits of a pediatric dental exam
Routine pediatric examinations offer patients and families numerous benefits, including:
- Catching hidden problems
- Preventing further tooth decay, infection, or gum disease
- Preventing expensive dental treatments
- Reducing any tooth, gum, or jaw pain
- Establishing good dental hygiene habits early
What a pediatric dental exam looks like
Children attend scheduled pediatric dental examinations at WindHaven Pediatric Dentistry in one of our private treatment rooms. Family members are welcome to attend the examination to help the child feel more comfortable. Typically, the child participates in an x-ray to examine the teeth. Then, one of our skilled dental hygienists will clean and polish the teeth with specialized dental equipment. Once the teeth are clean, Dr. Lee will examine the teeth and gums for any damage or decay. If no damage is detected, Dr. Lee will send the patient home with preventive tips. If Dr. Lee finds any oral damage or decay, she’ll present available treatment options.
Three questions to ask your child’s pediatric dentist at their next visit
Parents, guardians, and caregivers should feel comfortable asking as many questions as needed when bringing their children to a pediatric dentist for the first time. Here are three questions that you could ask at your next visit:
- How do I clean my child’s teeth at home?
Little children require education, assistance, and patience when it comes to brushing their teeth. Dr. Lee may be able to offer a plethora of tips to alleviate any worries you may have and to optimize your child’s brushing routine.
- Does my child have room for adult teeth?
As baby teeth fall out and permanent teeth emerge, some parents may be concerned about crooked or misaligned teeth. Dr. Lee can provide information and treatment options to help your child achieve straighter teeth.
- What can I do about helping my child’s anxiety at the dentist?
For some children, going to the dentist is a terrifying experience dreaded by the whole family. Consult with Dr. Lee and her team about strategies to minimize your child’s fears and anxieties for a pleasant experience.
Available pediatric dental treatment options
If your child requires additional treatment beyond a routine dental examination, WindHaven Pediatric Dentistry offers the following preventive, restorative, and surgical options:
- Fluoride treatments
- Dental sealants
- Cavity fillings
- Mouthguards
- Frenectomy (lip and tongue tie treatment)
- Nerve treatments
- Dental crowns
- Tooth extractions
- White spot treatments
For kids who need advanced dental treatments or who experience dental anxiety, we offer sedation dentistry for added comfort and ease.
Learn more about pediatric dentistry for my family
If you reside in or near Aubrey, TX, and would like to learn more about pediatric dentistry services for your child or other family members, contact us at WindHaven Pediatric Dentistry and schedule a consultation today. Dr. Karrie Lee will work with you and your child to help meet their oral health needs and help them maintain a healthy smile for years to come.