Healthy Smiles for Life Start with Children’s Dentistry at Eckland Family Dental
Eckland Family Dental loves patients of all ages, but children have a special place in our hearts. From the moment young smiles walk through our doors, their vibrant energy and curious minds light up the room. We understand children are unique, and so should their dental care. Our team offers dental care to children in a fun and comfortable setting. So, whether your little one is an infant, child, or teenager, we welcome them to our practice with open arms. We cherish the opportunity to guide young smiles towards optimal oral health.
Our child-friendly dental care services
We know you want the very best for your child. One way you can grant this wish to your children is by prioritizing their oral health. Like adults, children cherish a beautiful, healthy-looking smile. The services below help parents/guardians nurture their children’s smiles.
- Regular dental check-ups: Your child should visit a dentist within six months after the first tooth grows but not later than their first birthday. From there, your child should visit a dentist every six months. Routine dental exams allow us to monitor your child’s oral growth and development. Moreover, regular dental exams help detect and treat dental issues that may have passed your notice at home.
- Dental cleanings: Although you encourage your child to clean their teeth daily, remember they’re still learning to brush and floss properly. As you’d expect, their oral hygiene may not be thorough, allowing plaque and tartar to accumulate in the mouth. We offer gentle dental cleanings to help your little one achieve a beautiful, plaque-free smile.
- Dental sealants: We help your little one protect decay-prone teeth with dental sealants. A dental or fissure sealant is a plastic coating that creates a barrier between your teeth and the external environment. Provided your child observes optimal dental care, dental sealants effectively prevent dental decay.
- Periodontal care: Our services include prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease, ensuring that your child maintains optimal gum health.
Empowering your child to take control of their oral health is our top priority. That’s why we are focused on teaching your child proper ways to maintain their smile independently. However, we educate your child without overwhelming them with dental jargon. We use age-appropriate language to ensure your child clearly understands the necessary steps for optimal dental hygiene.
Children’s Dentistry FAQs
How does diet influence my child’s dental health beyond just sugar intake?
While it’s well-known that sugary foods can lead to cavities, other dietary choices also impact dental health. Foods rich in calcium and vitamin D, like dairy products and leafy greens, strengthen tooth enamel. Crunchy fruits and vegetables, such as apples and carrots, can help clean teeth naturally. Conversely, frequent consumption of acidic foods and beverages can erode enamel over time. Encouraging a balanced diet supports overall health and maintains your child’s vibrant smile.
What are dental sealants, and how can they help protect my child’s teeth?
Dental sealants are thin layers of protective material applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth, like molars and premolars. These teeth have natural grooves and pits that can trap food and bacteria, making them more susceptible to cavities. Sealants form a protective shield, keeping plaque and food particles out. The process is quick and comfortable and provides lasting protection against decay, helping to maintain your child’s dental health during their early years.
Can prolonged thumb-sucking or pacifier use affect my child’s dental development?
Yes, extended thumb-sucking or pacifier use can influence dental and jaw development. Persistent habits may cause tooth misalignment or changes in the roof of the mouth. It’s advisable to gently discourage these behaviors by age three to prevent potential orthodontic issues. Positive reinforcement and offering alternative comfort methods can help reduce dependence on these habits, supporting proper oral development.
How can I help my child manage dental anxiety?
Dental anxiety in children is common but manageable. Starting dental visits at an early age helps familiarize them with the environment. Role-playing dental procedures at home can demystify the experience. Bringing a favorite toy or blanket to appointments provides comfort. Open communication with the dentist about your child’s fears allows for personalized care approaches, ensuring a positive and stress-free experience.
What is the significance of my child’s primary teeth if they eventually fall out?
Primary teeth, commonly known as baby teeth, play crucial roles beyond serving as placeholders for permanent teeth. They aid in proper chewing and nutrition, support speech development, and guide the alignment and spacing of future adult teeth. Maintaining the health of primary teeth is essential, as premature loss can lead to misalignment issues and affect the eruption pattern of permanent teeth.
Are dental X-rays safe for my child, and how often are they needed?
Dental X-rays are considered safe for children, utilizing minimal radiation exposure. They are crucial diagnostic instruments that aid in identifying problems like impacted teeth, cavities between teeth, or anomalies of the bone that are not apparent during a routine examination. The frequency of X-rays depends on your child’s health needs, age, and risk of dental disease. Your dentist will recommend X-rays only when necessary to ensure optimal care.
How can I protect my child’s teeth during sports and physical activities?
To safeguard your child’s teeth during sports, especially contact sports, it’s important to use a well-fitted mouthguard. Mouthguards cushion impacts on the face, reducing the risk of broken teeth and injuries to the lips, tongue, and jaw. Custom-fitted mouthguards provided by a dentist offer superior protection and comfort compared to over-the-counter options, ensuring your child’s smile stays intact during their active pursuits.
A child-friendly dentist near me
Are you looking for a children's dentist in Everett or Redmond, Washington? Call (425) 448-6339 or (425) 249-3830 to schedule an appointment with Eckland Dental Family. Dr. Kale Eckland and the team can't wait to help your child achieve their dental goals.
