Pediatric Dentistry in Alpharetta

What Should I Know About Pediatric Dentistry?

With extensive experience in the unique needs of kids’ developing teeth, children’s pediatric dentistry specializes in dental care for children, from infancy to the teen years. Because pediatric dentists complete an additional two to three years of training, they have unique knowledge about every stage of your child’s dental development. This specialized curriculum includes hospital training where dentists learn to treat more intensive dental issues and address emergencies that require the care of a pediatric oral surgeon. During their specialty training, kid’s dentists also learn to treat children with special health care needs and how to ease the concerns of frightened children. Since dental health influences your child’s total health, our dentists work with your child’s other health care providers, including their pediatricians and general dentists.

Why Does My Child Need to See a Pediatric Dentist?

A pediatric dentist is an expert in all things relating to your child’s dental development. So, in addition to providing the specialized professional care your child needs for a healthy smile, pediatric dental specialists can provide you with the information, guidance and advice you need to help keep your child healthy. After cleaning your toddler’s teeth, for example, a toddler dentist will give you advice for at-home care such as proper brushing and flossing practices for your child’s teeth. They may offer guidance on issues such as sippy cup and pacifier use. As kids get a little older, your pediatric dental specialist can discuss sealants, sports mouth guards, your child’s tooth spacing and other preventive issues with you. Throughout your child’s growth, a pediatric dentist is your partner in helping to keep your child’s smile healthy.

There’s also a financial benefit to seeking early treatment for your child. Studies show that the cost of a pediatric dental visit is economical, helping to prevent costly dental problems down the road.

When Should My Child’s First Visit Be?

Most dental experts recommend that children have their first children’s pediatric dentistry visit by the age of one or two. Some children may feel frightened by this new environment, but you can help us make the visit pleasant. Many of our patients’ parents find that speaking positively about the dental visit and offering a smile-friendly treat after the appointment help their children associate going to the dentist with positive things.

Your child’s visit to our office usually begins with an examination by one of our pediatric dental specialists followed by a dental cleaning for kids. This cleaning removes any built-up plaque from the teeth and gums. We’ve created a kid-friendly environment in our office, and we employ a variety of methods to help keep your little one feeling safe and at ease throughout your visit.

What Will the Dentist Do During My Child’s First Visit?

Making your child’s first visit to the dentist can be a time of uncertainty, so we strive to make you and your child as comfortable as possible while you’re in our practice. We’ll take great care with your child, especially if he or she seems intimidated, frightened or reluctant.

This first visit is an important benchmark where we’ll make a thorough assessment of your child’s oral health and develop a treatment plan that addresses your little one’s specific needs. Our dentist will make a pediatric periodontics assessment of the support structures of your child’s teeth and perform a thorough examination of the entire oral cavity. In many cases, we’ll also make x-rays of your child’s teeth so that the dentist can diagnose things like decay and developmental problems. Your child’s teeth will also be cleaned to remove any built-up bacteria and plaque.

While you’re in our office, feel free to ask our dentist about any of your concerns. Whether you’re worried about teething or your child’s need to have a sippy cup to fall asleep, we’ll give you the most up-to-date information and advice.

Can a Pediatric Dentist Treat a Special Needs Child?

Yes, our children’s dentists have advanced training that helps to keep your special needs child feeling safe while in our office. This training and experience includes special behavior management strategies and sedation techniques. If you’ve been searching for a pediatric dentist for special needs, call us. Our team of compassionate, experienced professionals is always happy to talk with you about our personalized programs for special needs.