Children’s Dentist Near You
Children’s dentistry, also called pedodontics, focuses on children’s oral health from infancy through their teen years. Pediatric dentists take a special approach, working with young patients to prevent and treat issues unique to children, like tooth decay, gum disease, and misaligned teeth. With training specifically geared toward kids, they create a safe, welcoming space, helping children feel at ease during visits and building good habits early on.
Beyond check-ups and cleanings, pediatric dentists address habits like thumb-sucking and pacifier use, guiding parents and kids toward healthier routines. With regular care, these specialists support children’s smiles as they grow, helping lay the groundwork for a lifetime of strong, healthy teeth.
Child General Dentistry Services in Calgary
Our children’s dentistry encapsulates:
- Routine Check-Ups and Cleanings: Regular check-ups and cleanings are the foundation of children’s dental care. These visits allow the dentist to monitor teeth development, remove plaque buildup, and address any concerns early on.
- Fluoride Treatments: Fluoride treatments strengthen enamel and protect against cavities. These quick, painless treatments help keep young teeth resilient, especially for children who may still be learning good brushing habits.
- Dental Sealants: Sealants act as a protective barrier over the chewing surfaces of back teeth. They help prevent cavities in hard-to-reach areas, making them a valuable option for children prone to decay.
- Early Orthodontic Assessments: Assessing the alignment of a child’s teeth early helps catch any potential issues with bite or crowding. Early intervention allows for timely treatment, often making later orthodontic work easier or more effective.
- Treatment for Cavities and Other Dental Issues: We provide gentle, effective care for cavities and other common dental issues. Our team ensures treatments are comfortable for young patients, helping them feel at ease throughout the process.
Why Choose Us for Children’s Dentistry in Calgary
- Kid-Friendly Environment: At Inglewood Family Dental, creating a welcoming space for children is a priority. From colourful decor and toys in the waiting room to a friendly, approachable staff, the clinic makes each child’s visit enjoyable and stress-free. This kid-friendly environment helps kids feel relaxed and encourages a positive attitude toward dental care.
- Experienced Team: our dental team brings extensive experience and specialized training in children’s dentistry. They understand the unique dental needs of young patients and how to address them with expertise and care, helping families feel confident in the quality of treatment.
- Gentle Approach: Our pediatric dentists take a gentle, compassionate approach to every child’s visit. They work to make each child feel comfortable and secure throughout their treatment, explaining steps in kid-friendly terms and providing reassurance along the way. This approach helps children develop a trusting relationship with their dentist, making each visit a positive experience.”
What to Expect During a Children’s Dental Visit
To make the experience smooth and comfortable, here’s a step-by-step look at what parents and children can expect during their dental visit:
- Warm Welcome: When you arrive, our friendly staff will greet you and your child with a warm welcome. We know that a friendly face can help ease any nerves, so we take the time to introduce your child to the team, helping them feel relaxed and at home.
- Initial Examination: The visit begins with a gentle, thorough examination of your child’s teeth, gums, and overall oral health. The dentist checks for any early signs of cavities, misalignment, or other dental issues, giving you a clear picture of your child’s oral health.
- Cleaning: Next, we perform a gentle cleaning to remove plaque and any buildup from teeth, finishing with a polishing to leave your child’s smile clean and bright. Our team is careful to keep this step comfortable, making sure your child feels at ease throughout.
- Fluoride Treatment: If needed, we’ll apply a fluoride treatment to strengthen your child’s teeth and protect against cavities. This quick, painless step adds an extra layer of defence for healthy teeth as they grow.
- Education: Before you leave, we’ll share easy-to-follow tips and recommendations on maintaining your child’s oral health at home. Our team offers guidance on brushing and flossing techniques, along with diet tips to support strong teeth and gums.
Common Dental Issues in Children
Here are some typical dental concerns that may arise in children:
- Cavities and Tooth Decay: Cavities are among the most common dental issues in children. Sugary snacks, inadequate brushing, and developing teeth make children more prone to decay.
- Thumb Sucking and Pacifier Use: Prolonged thumb-sucking or pacifier use can affect how teeth align and lead to bite issues if the habit continues past the age when permanent teeth start to come in.
- Misalignment of Teeth: Crooked or crowded teeth are common in growing children. Early orthodontic assessments help identify alignment issues, allowing for timely intervention if needed.
- Gum Disease: Gum disease isn’t just an adult issue; children can also develop gingivitis, especially with poor oral hygiene. Signs include red, swollen gums or bleeding while brushing.
- Tooth Sensitivity: Some children experience sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods. This sensitivity may indicate enamel wear, cavities, or other underlying issues that need attention.
Preventive Care Tips for Parents
Here are a few easy ways to keep your child’s teeth healthy and build strong habits at home:
- Make Brushing a Part of Their Routine
Encourage your child to brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a dab of fluoride toothpaste. Aiming for two minutes each time gets all those hard-to-reach spots. To make it fun, try playing their favourite song or setting a timer to keep them engaged. - Choose Snacks Wisely
A balanced diet can make a big difference in your child’s oral health. Try to limit sugary snacks and drinks, which can cause cavities, and go for healthier options like fruits, veggies, and dairy. These foods not only taste good but also help keep teeth strong and gums healthy. - Make Dental Visits a Habit
Regular check-ups, about every six months, let the dentist keep an eye on your child’s teeth and catch any issues before they turn into bigger problems. These visits help your child get comfortable with the dentist and make dental care feel like a natural part of their routine. - Use a Fluoride Toothpaste
Fluoride is a superhero for teeth, strengthening enamel and helping prevent cavities. A pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste is perfect for kids, and it’s important to remind them to spit it out after brushing.
What to Expect During Your Visit?
Consultation
Check your child’s teeth and talk about their dental care.
Examination
Full check-up to look at teeth, gums, and overall health.
Treatment Plan
A plan made just for your child’s dental needs.
Procedure
Gentle treatments to fix any dental problems your child has.
Follow-up
Regular visits to check on progress and keep teeth healthy.
The Benefits
- Helps kids learn good tooth-brushing and dental care habits that last a lifetime.
- Lowers the chance of getting cavities or gum problems.
- Finds dental issues early so they can be fixed before they get worse.
- Prevents future tooth problems with various treatments such as fluoride and protective covering.
- It makes the kids feel great about going to the dentist and looking after their teeth.
- Helps kids speak clearly and chew better by keeping their teeth aligned.
- Keeps the teeth strong and healthy through regular cleanings and check-ups.
- This gives parents confidence because steps are taken to protect their child's dental health.
Sedation Dentistry Can Help Reduce Your Anxiety
Bringing your children to the dentist can be an uneasy experience for both kids and their parents. Inglewood Family Dental offers individualized treatment options for our younger patients, especially those with dental anxiety.
You can trust that our team is trained in working with children to help make their dental experience comfortable. We believe that a compassionate approach to dental care creates a positive experience for children.
Call us at (403) 265-5888 to request your consultation at Inglewood Family Dental today!
At What Age Should My Child First Visit the Dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children visit the dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth coming in. Early visits help establish a positive relationship with the dentist and allow for early monitoring of their oral health.
How Can I Prepare My Child for Their Dental Visit?
Preparing your child for their visit can make the experience smoother. Talk about what to expect in simple, positive terms, and read children’s books or watch videos about going to the dentist to help them feel comfortable. Bringing a favorite toy or comfort item can also help make them feel more at ease.
What Can I Do If My Child Is Afraid of the Dentist?
Dental anxiety is common in children, but there are ways to help. Avoid using any negative words about the dentist, and focus on the fun or positive aspects of the visit, like the chance to choose a new toothbrush or get a sticker. Many dental offices also offer gentle techniques and a calming environment designed specifically to ease children’s nerves.
How Often Should My Child See the Dentist?
Most dentists recommend that children visit every six months for check-ups and cleanings. Regular visits allow the dentist to monitor their dental development, catch any issues early, and keep their teeth and gums healthy.