PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

• Why a Pediatric Dentist?
• First Visit
• Early Childhood Caries
• Tooth Eruption
• Non-Nutritive Habits
• Infants and Children
• Adolescents
• Special Needs
• Emergencies

First Visit

When Should I schedule my child’s first dental visit?

Your child’s first "regular" dental visit should be six months after the first teeth erupt, which often coincides with a child’s first birthday. Along with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), Dr. Lam endorses the concept of a Dental Home at Age One. We will gently examine your child's teeth and gums. X-rays may be taken to check for cavities or to assess development of growing teeth. If most or all of your child’s primary teeth are grown, we may clean your child's teeth and apply topical fluoride to help protect the teeth against decay. We will make sure your child is receiving adequate fluoride at home. Most importantly, we will review with you how to clean and care for your child's teeth.

What Should I Tell My Child About Their First Dental Visit?

We are asked this question many times. Your child’s first dental visit will NOT be the frightening experience you may remember from your youth. Therefore, there is no need to protect your child from any potential dread! As a general rule, the less you say the better. Prior to your first visit, our office will send your child a welcome package with an activity book. Have fun going through it with your child. Casually mention that you and your child will be visiting the dentist soon. However, please do not offer rewards or attempt to explain what will happen at the dental visit. Your child's reaction to his first visit to the dentist may surprise you!