Help Your Child Achieve a Healthy Smile
At Warren Family Dentistry, we understand that adults and children require different dental care. Our family-oriented staff will always go the extra mile to ensure your child gets the care they need while also feeling comfortable and happy during their time here. We’ll explain treatments in detail to your child using kid-friendly terms, so they’ll understand what we’re doing.
We focus on educating your child about their dental care and why it matters. Our team will always answer any questions they may have and set them up for dental success in the future.
Learn how Dr. Chirco and our Warren dental team create a warm and inviting environment with necessary treatments for your child with our helpful guide below.
Your Child’s First Appointment
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that your child’s first visits to the dentist should happen once their first tooth erupts or no later than their first birthday. Starting dental care early for your child will put them on a path of excellent oral health.
For our younger patients, Dr. Chirco will make sure their teeth are clean and free of decay. We’ll also set a benchmark for their oral health and help them get accustomed to biannual dental checkups, our office environment, and having our dental team perform examinations. We always make sure to educate your child about their oral hygiene, including how to brush properly.
Most importantly, we’ll make sure your child is comfortable and doesn’t feel anxious or upset. This will show them that visiting the dentist is a positive experience rather than something to fear.
Preparing Your Child for Dental Visits
Prior to your child’s dental appointment, there are a few ways you can make the process easier for them. Try following these guidelines for a smooth dental visit:
- Speak positively about the dentist
- Choose a time of day when they’re likely to be relaxed
- Bring their favorite toys
- Show them books or television shows that feature their favorite characters going to the dentist
- Use positive reinforcement or provide a reward
Healthy Smiles at Home: The Tell-Show-Do Method
We know that it can be difficult to get your child into a consistent oral hygiene routine as well as getting them excited about brushing their teeth. At Warren Family Dentistry, our pediatric dentistry services involve teaching parents about the tell-show-do method. This method will help make at-home oral care routines easier for both you and your child.
Tell
First, you’ll want to explain to your child how brushing and flossing will keep their teeth healthy and strong. Make sure to use kid-friendly terms and encourage your child to ask any questions they have.
Show
Children look up to their parents and usually copy what they do. Try brushing and flossing your teeth next to them so that you can show them how to properly do it. You can even make a game out of it, whether it’s a two-minute brushing dance party or a game to get rid of the “sugar monsters” on their teeth.
Do
Children often need assistance when brushing and flossing their teeth until around the age of five. Try your best to maintain a regular oral care routine as this will help them form good habits. You can also use little prizes to help motivate your child to brush twice a day, such as stickers on a calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Focusing on your child’s oral hygiene routine is a key component to their overall health. Not only will it help rid their mouths of harmful bacteria that eventually lead to cavities, but it will also form healthy habits that will improve the longevity of their smile. A good at-home oral health routine consists of brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and rinsing between meals.
Other ways to help your child avoid cavities include:
- Use oral care products that contain fluoride
- Avoid frequent snacking
- Avoid acidic and sugary foods
- Consider dental sealants
- Eat tooth-healthy foods such as leafy greens, cheese, and apples
Attentive oral health care should begin prior to your baby’s first tooth erupting. We recommend that you clean your baby’s gums after feedings with a clean, soft washcloth that has been dampened with water.
You can begin brushing your baby’s first teeth as soon as they emerge with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Your local drugstore should carry small toothbrushes designed for infants. Do not brush your infant’s teeth with fluoride toothpaste until your dentist lets you know their mouth is ready.
Learn More About Our Pediatric Dentistry Care
Your child’s smile matters at every age. To set them up for a lifetime of pristine oral health and bright smiles, bring them into our Warren dental office for regular dental checkups as soon as their first tooth erupts. To learn more about pediatric dentistry, schedule an appointment with Dr. Chirco by calling (586) 574-9500, or you can fill out our online contact form.