We know the importance of giving your child a solid foundation for good oral health from the very beginning. To ensure that your child receives ultimate care, your child’s Discovery Dental Centers doctor will consult with pediatricians, physicians and other dental doctors as needed.

Children’s dental needs are best served through this team approach.

In choosing to work with Discover Dental Centers, you’ll know that our doctors are devoted members of your child’s total health team.

From routine dental checkups to at home care, the best way to instill good oral health practices in you child is to take preventative steps early on. Discovery Dental Centers wants to support you every step of the way.

First Visit

At Discovery Dental Centers, we know how important it is for your child to have a great first impression after his or her dental visit. Rest assured knowing that our doctors will welcome your child and cater to his or her needs in a friendly and practical way.

When should I schedule my child’s first visit to the dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the American Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry all recommend that parents schedule a child’s first dental visit shortly after they turn one year old.

Some dental problems, such as such as gum disease and tooth decay, emerge at a young age but can only be detected though an exam. If you’re concerned about teething irritations or prolonged thumb sucking, you should schedule a visit for you child as soon as possible to prevent further damage. These problems can be treated more effectively when diagnosed early on.

What will happen at my child’s first dental visit?
Your child’s first visit will be a simple, noninvasive exam that will accustom your child to good oral health practices. A gentle but thorough examination will allow us to monitor growth and diagnose any potential problems. If any problems are observed, your doctor will determine what course of treatment is best for your child.

How often should I take my child to the dentist?
Like adults, children should see their Discovery Dental Centers doctor every six months. Some dental conditions might require visits to be scheduled more frequently.

Home Care

Encouraging your child to practice good oral health practices from a young age can reduce the likelihood of dental problems in the future.

What is the best at-home care for my child? How exactly you protect and reinforce your child’s oral health will change as he or she grows up. Upon request, your Discovery Dental Center specialist will gladly demonstrate proper home cleaning techniques that are appropriate for your child’s current age.

At Discovery Dental Centers, we recommend parents with young children implement the following at-home dental care habits.

• Prepare nutritious meals for your child, and avoid giving them too many sugary snacks between meals.
• Use fluoride rinses to make your child’s teeth more resistant to acid attack and decay.
• Monitor your child’s nightly brushing, as teeth are more susceptible to cavities and plaque while they sleep.
• Lead by example. Encourage your child to watch you perform your daily oral health routine.
• Schedule a checkup for your child every six months to ensure at-home health care practices are effectively preventing potential dental problems.

Remember that prevention is the key to establishing good oral health for children. Teaching children good oral health practices now will allow them to grow and maintain healthy adult teeth later.