First Visits and Continuing Dental Care

Little Ones - 0 to 1 Year Old

This is an informational one-on-one visit with you and your little one. Parents usually hold their child in their lap while we examine the child’s mouth. Our goal is to help you and your child establish good dental habits early and reduce the risk of cavities. Our team will talk to you about tooth eruption and teething, proper brushing techniques and diet choices that impact dental health.

Toddlers - 1 to 3 Years Old

The visit begins with a Caries (tooth decay) Risk Assessment to see if your child’s teeth have cavities or show early signs of the risk for decay. If your child is not ready to sit in the dental chair, this exam can be done sitting knee-to-knee with the dental provider with your child in your lap. Our team will give you brushing and flossing instructions for this age group. They will also provide guidance regarding nutrition, oral habits, fluoride use and strategies to help prevent cavities.

Big kids - 4 to 10 Years Old

This is an important time of growth and development of the teeth and jaws. A thorough examination of the teeth, oral tissues and mouth will be done to evaluate your child for cavities or other dental needs. This may include dental x-rays taken at appropriate intervals. Oral hygiene instructions including proper brushing, flossing, and oral health tips will be given. As these are cavity prone years, the importance of regular dental check-ups, good habits, and prevention will be emphasized. As the adult permanent molars erupt, procedures that can help prevent tooth decay will be explained. The way the teeth and jaws fit together and any oral habits will be evaluated and the potential for future orthodontic needs will be discussed.

Teens - 11 to 17 Years Old

Teens and young adults are often at a greater risk for cavities due to their busy lives and diet changes that often include snacking and poor eating habits. All the permanent teeth are present at this age, so oral hygiene instructions will stress the importance of brushing, flossing and regular dental appointments. Prevention is important as these teeth need to last a lifetime. A cavity check and complete examination of the teeth, oral tissues and mouth will be done. Any orthodontic needs will be discussed and a referral to an orthodontist will be given if needed or requested.