Pediatric Dentistry

Before Entering Kindergarten, Your Child Should Have a Dental Health Check

Children enrolled in a public school kindergarten program must present proof of an oral health assessment by their dentist or other registered or licensed dental professional before May 31 of the school year. This also pertains to children enrolled in first grade at a public school who have not previously attended kindergarten. The oral health assessment must have occurred at least 12 months prior to the date of enrollment. Once an assessment has been made, it’s crucial to continue bringing your child for regular dental checkups. Call our office at 408-223-9600 to schedule an appointment for your child. We are now open 7 days a week for your convenience.

First Visit

Children should begin visiting their dentist on a regular basis shortly after their third birthday. The first visit is generally brief and may involve an examination of the teeth and gums. The teeth may be cleaned and fluoride applied for protection against decay. In some instances, X-rays may be taken to check for decay and the progress of your child’s adult teeth. Prepare your child for the first visit by talking positively about your experiences and taking your child to meet the dentist and get a “preview” of the office.

Preventative Care

At our office, we perform various procedures to ensure your child doesn’t suffer from the effects of tooth decay. This includes applying dental sealants which bond to the chewing surfaces of the teeth. We educate on cavity prevention which can be achieved by avoiding foods high in sugar and brushing, flossing, and rinsing on a regular basis. Encourage your child to eat nutritious snacks and watch what your child drinks.

Baby Teeth

When babies are around 6-8 months old, their two bottom front teeth are the first to emerge. Next are the upper 4 front teeth, followed by the remaining teeth until all 20 have emerged by the time your child is 2 ½ years old. Permanent teeth begin to appear between 5 and 6 and will replace some baby teeth. It’s important to help your child maintain good hygiene and a healthy diet as the baby teeth hold space for permanent teeth and are crucial for biting, chewing, speech and appearance.