Pediatric Dentistry

When should my child first see a dentist?

Children should see a dentist when their first tooth erupts or by their first birthday. For most children, the primary teeth for breakthrough are on the lower bottom gums, typically occurring at about six months. Following their initial visit, children, like adults, should have routine dental exams twice a year.

Why do I need to take my child to the dentist for their baby teeth?

While children inevitably lose their baby teeth, proper dental hygiene is still crucial, as the health of baby teeth impacts the health of your child’s gums and the permanent teeth underneath.

The team at Rifkin Dental stresses the importance of keeping baby teeth in place until they are lost naturally, as baby teeth teach children to chew properly, aid in speech development, and establish the space for their permanent teeth to grow in. The earlier children learn how to care for their teeth properly, the more likely they are to form long-term, positive habits.

What type of pediatric services does Rifkin Dental offer?

Rifkin Dental offers the full scope of pediatric dental services for toddlers through teens. In addition to thorough cleanings, periodic X-rays, and teaching your children how to care for their teeth at home, the team offers:

• Cavity Treatment
• Well baby visits
• Orthodontics
• Extractions
• Sealants
• Emergency Dentistry
• Preventive dentistry
• Specialized first visits
• Special needs pediatric dentistry

How can I help care for my child's teeth at home?

Rifkin Dental will educate parents and their children on proper dental hygiene with each visit. To build on this foundation, the practice recommends:

Brushing twice a day

Make it a game of brushing, or brush along with your child. Set a timer and make sure that your child brushes for two minutes.

Flossing daily

Parents need to floss young children's teeth, but eventually, they should learn to do it themselves.

Weaning off thumb-sucking and pacifiers

It's perfectly fine for babies to suck. But by the time your toddler's front teeth erupt, sucking should be stopped, as it can cause alignment issues.

Eating a balanced diet

A balanced diet of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean sources of protein is essential for the proper growth of bones, gums, and teeth. Also, be sure to limit sugars and starches, which can cause tooth decay.

To schedule a pediatric dentistry visit for your child, call the office nearest you or book an appointment online today.