Children's/Pediatric Dentistry
At Western New York Dental Group, our general and pediatric dentists are concerned about your child’s total health care. Good oral health is an important part of total wellness. Establishing us as your child’s “dental home” gives us the opportunity to implement preventive oral hygiene habits that help keep a child from dental and oral disease. We focus on prevention, early detection and treatment of dental diseases, and keep current on the latest advances in pediatric dentistry in the New York area and industry-wide.
At Western New York Dental Group, New York pediatric dentistry professionals take extra special care of your kids. That means smiles for you and your entire family. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends your child’s first dental visit occur after the first tooth erupts and no later than their first birthday. We recognize that children and adults tend to have different dental needs. Our caring dental professionals know how to communicate with children in a way that will make them feel comfortable and at ease, establishing the expectation in their minds that a trip to the dentist doesn’t have to be something to dread – it can even be fun! Everyone, especially kids, should see the dentist to have their teeth cleaned every six months. Decay is more likely to happen when kids are young, so it is important to have regular appointments.
During each teeth cleaning and examination, you and your child can expect a:
- Preventative cleaning. The hygienist or dental assistant will clean and polish the teeth to remove sticky bacteria, called plaque. When plaque builds up, it can cause tooth decay. The hygienist or dental assistant will also teach your child proper brushing and flossing as needed, and answer any dental questions you or your child may have.
- Diagnosis of any dental conditions. The dentist will perform the exam and look for cavities or other dental conditions.
- Full oral examination to identify changes in the tissues of the mouth.
Your child’s hygienist or dental assistant will clean and polish your child’s teeth to remove plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, and tartar, the hardened plaque. Plaque and tartar can contribute to tooth decay and/or gum disease. The hygienist or dental assistant will also provide an overview of proper flossing and brushing techniques to ensure your child starts the right way from the very beginning.
Your child plays an important role in preventive dentistry as well. Self-care, such as twice-daily brushing and daily flossing, is essential in ensuring their teeth and mouth stay healthy. A good oral hygiene routine keeps their teeth clean between preventive dental appointments.
Preventive dentistry can result in less extensive—and less expensive—treatment for any dental conditions that may develop and help your child keep his or her natural teeth for a lifetime.
Your child’s hygienist or dental assistant will take x-rays of your child’s teeth to help us locate disease and cavities that can’t be seen by the naked eye. We recommend taking a full set of x-rays every three to five years and cavity check x-rays every year. We use low levels of x-rays to reduce exposure.
We recommend fluoride treatment for your child once a year or as needed during their regularly scheduled dental exam and cleaning. This treatment strengthens the mineral component of teeth, making them stronger and less susceptible to acid and cavities.
Sealants are a clear or white material applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth. They keep out plaque and food to prevent cavities. Your child’s hygienist or dental assistant will paint the sealant material onto the chewing surface of the back teeth where it bonds and hardens in seconds.
Sealants are commonly used with children and teens because decay is more likely to develop early in life. Studies have shown that early placement of sealants can prevent a lifetime of costly dental work, with the added benefit of a great smile!
General anesthesia, or intravenous sedation, may be recommended for certain children. General anesthesia is administered and monitored by an anesthesiologist in our office while the dentist performs the dental treatment.
Before your child’s appointment:
- Please notify us of any change in your child’s health or medical condition. Do not bring your child in for treatment with a fever, ear infection or cold. Should your child become ill, contact us to see if it is necessary to reschedule.
- Tell the dentist and staff of any drugs your child is currently taking, any drug reactions and/or change in medical history.
- Please dress your child in loose fitting, comfortable clothing.
- Please make sure your child goes to the bathroom immediately prior to arriving at the office.
- Your child will need to arrive with an empty stomach. You will receive special instructions regarding eating and drinking prior to the appointment.
- The child’s parent/legal guardian must remain at the office during the complete procedure.
After the appointment:
- Your child will be drowsy and will need to be monitored closely.
- You will receive specific instructions for care of your child after the general anesthesia.
- If you have any questions or concerns, please call the office immediately.
