Dentistry for Kids
As your local dentist, we here at Calapooia Family Dental pride ourselves on serving every member of our community, from older adults to young children. If your child needs professional dentistry, you have come to the right place! We specialize in several preventive and restorative treatments for kids.
The Importance of Dentistry for Kids Regular dental appointments are one of the best things you can do for your child’s oral health. The goal is to prevent problems before they occur, helping your child maintain a healthy and beautiful smile. We want to establish a strong foundation of oral health that follows them into adulthood.
Some children also have development issues with their teeth and jaws that need to be closely monitored. Routine appointments allow us to catch these issues early on when they are easiest to treat and correct. The frequency of your child’s visits is dictated by the status of their oral health and their risk factors for tooth decay and gum disease. Most children visit our office twice a year, about every six months, for a checkup and professional cleaning.
Your Child's First Appointment
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends scheduling your child's first appointment no later than their first birthday. Ideally, your child should receive an exam after the first tooth erupts in the mouth. Regardless of age, a child's first appointment is usually precautionary and informative.
During your child's first appointment, Dr. Summers or Dr. Hagerty will perform a comprehensive examination to establish a baseline for their oral health. We will also review the proper brushing and flossing techniques with you, allowing you to implement a good at-home oral hygiene routine until your child is old enough to do it on their own. Education is the cornerstone of preventive dentistry.
If your child is a little older, we may also perform a thorough cleaning. Even with a good daily oral hygiene, routine professional cleanings are imperative. Our team utilizes gentle and effective techniques to ensure a more comfortable experience for your child. Our office is completely kid-friendly, from the waiting room to our dental chairs. Above all else, we want our younger patients to avoid fearing a visit to the dentist.
Flouride Treatment for Kids
Besides exams and cleanings, we specialize in several preventive services for children. One of the most common procedures involves fluoride treatment. Fluoride treatment has become a fundamental part of childhood dental visits.
Fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and even reverses minor instances of decay. Professional fluoride treatment is applied directly to the teeth in the form of a gel, foam, or varnish. If your child is at particularly high risk for tooth decay, we may also recommend supplements, systemic fluoride that strengthens the teeth from the inside out.
Proper Nutrition A poor diet can increase your child's risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease. During their appointments, we may offer dietary tips that prevent potential problems. In general, children should avoid foods that are high in sugars, starches, and other simple carbohydrates. Bacteria love to feed off these types of foods. As they feed, they produce acids that attack the enamel.
Schedule Your Child’s Appointment
Protect your child’s oral health today! Call (541) 936-9222 to schedule their appointment now! |