Pediatric Dentistry
A healthy, happy smile starts here!
First visit by the first birthday.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children visit the dentist within six months of the eruption of the first tooth or by age one. Early examination and preventive care will protect your child’s smile now and in the future. Having a dental home is important for preventative services as well as ensuring your child has access to care should a dental trauma or tooth accident take place.
What to expect at your child’s first visit.
First, we will greet you and your child to start to get to know each other and go over any medical (or dental) histories. Depending on your child’s age, we will examine their teeth, jaws, bite, gums, and oral tissues to check growth and development. For a more relaxed setting, the first visit is often done “knee-to-knee” with your child lying in the comfort of your lap. Dr. Ashley will complete a thorough cleaning and fluoride varnish and provide daily tips for good oral health. Depending on the age, x-rays or a radiograph may be done.
Routine Dental care.
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, parents should take their children to visit a dentist for kids twice a year. Preventative care includes regular x-rays, cleanings, fluoride varnish, and reminders of healthy habits. And if a cavity begins to develop, early detection means easier, faster, and less invasive treatment for a healthy mouth and more positive experience for the child.
In-office dental treatment.
Our goal is for patients to be as comfortable and relaxed as possible, which may require nitrous oxide or general anesthesia.
Nitrous oxide: Nitrous oxide, sometimes referred to as “laughing gas,” relaxes children while allowing them to remain awake. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recognizes nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation as a safe and effective technique to reduce anxiety, produce analgesia, and enhance effective communication between a patient and health care provider. Nitrous oxide is administered by placing a small soft mask over the patient’s nose. As the child breathes normally, the odorless gas provides a calming feeling. The effects begin quickly, then wear off within a few minutes of removing the mask. If your child is undergoing a procedure with nitrous oxide, please feed them a light meal beforehand.
General anesthesia: General anesthesia may be necessary if your child requires a major dental procedure, needs multiple teeth treated at once, or has a limited tolerance level. The benefits of general anesthesia for dental treatment include decreased number of dental appointments and decreased patient anxiety in the future. General anesthesia can be completed right here in our kid-friendly dental office and is administered by Dr. Rudy Pavlesich DNP, CRNA, FNP, ARNP of Blue Sky Anesthesia Associates.
