When Should My Child First Visit the Dentist?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) and American Dental Association (ADA) recommend bringing your child in by age one, when you typically see the first tooth. This helps children familiarize themselves with the dental pediatrics office, and can allow the opportunity to take any preventive measures so they do not become vulnerable to tooth decay, infections and early tooth loss.

Young Boy Brushing Teeth image

What Preventive Dental Pediatric Services Do We Offer at Clear Dental Studio?

  • Oral Evaluation Under 3 Years Old – this is a clinical exam that is conducted until age 3 – when all baby teeth should have grown in.
  • Comprehensive Exam and X-rays – once all baby teeth are in, we can start assessing the proper timeline for x-rays and/or dental treatments that are necessary.
  • Child Prophy (cleaning) – a child prophy is a basic cleaning to remove dental plaque around the baby teeth and gums.
  • Sealants – are a resin based dental material to seal baby teeth and permanent teeth from any decay and bacteria. They are usually placed around 6 years of age, when the first permanent molars start to erupt. With that said, sealants on baby teeth have shown to be beneficial and prevent a number of dental conditions. Please consult with your dentist to see what is best for your child. Please click to learn more about sealants.
  • Fluoride varnish – is painted onto the teeth, which leaves a small layer that provides strength and protection to baby teeth. It is typically applied, at the minimum, twice a year but can be applied up to four times a year. After fluoride varnish is placed, it is recommended to avoid eating or drinking for at least thirty minutes to allow the full effects to take place. Please click to learn more about fluoride.

Clear Dental Studio’s Cavity Treatment Options

If you suspect your child may have a cavity it is best to see your dentist immediately before it becomes larger or irreparable. Listed below are procedures for your child in presence of an infection and/or cavity.

Sad Young Girl with Cavity image
  • Fillings – when a small cavity occurs a resin or glass ionomer filling can be placed to fix the tooth. Glass ionomer (GI) fillings can be beneficial because of the fluoride releasing capabilities. Both resin and GI fillings are tooth colored.
  • Stainless Steel Crowns (SSC) – when a baby tooth has a large cavity and extensive decay, a crown may be needed to protect it and maintain its proper space. SSC’s are silver in color, but there are also white colored crowns which are typically more expensive. Often in children we do not want to remove baby teeth prematurely, as it can cause delay in eruption of permanent teeth and/or cause disruption that will result in malocclusion (misalignment of teeth).
  • Pulpotomy – a pulpotomy is referred to as a “baby root canal.” When there is a large cavity in the pulpal chamber (nerve) your child may have pain. In order to relieve them of this pain, we must remove the infected nerve and clean the tooth out.
  • Tooth Extraction – is the removal of the baby tooth in presence of disease, infection or a cavity. Sometimes it can also be necessary to move along the eruption of permanent teeth.
  • Nitrous – often times children can become nervous or scared at the dental pediatrics office. To put them at ease, the effects of nitrous gas can be a great and safe option due to its reversibility. The effects of nitrous gas help relax your child so they are more comfortable in the chair during treatment.

Preventive Dentistry

Schedule Your Preventive Dentistry Appointment with Clear Dental Studio in Broomfield, CO Today!

If you live in the Broomfield area and are in need of a dental evaluation, cleaning, assessment or any other dental services, turn to Clear Dental Studio. Dr. Martha Ha and her team of dental specialists are known for performing exceptional dental work for the residents of Broomfield and beyond and can do the same for you! Whether you need cosmetic, restorative, preventive, or surgery-oriented dental services, the choice is Clear. Call now or book online to schedule an appointment at our office in Broomfield.

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