Children’s dentistry is a vital part of pediatric health. As a family dentist in Elk Grove and Lodi Junction, I treat patients of all ages, including young children and their families. My dental practice is home for all ages.
Let’s explore children’s dentistry, including best practices for at-home care.
At What Age Should Children See the Dentist?
You should bring your child to my dental office around the time of their first tooth eruption. Typically, this is just before or after their first birthday. Don't be concerned if your child’s first tooth erupts a bit later than usual. Every little smile is different.
If you have concerns before the first tooth arrives, don’t hesitate to call my dental office for guidance. We can assess the issue and even set up a visit if warranted.
I aim to provide excellent dental care for your child from the beginning.
How Often Should I Bring My Child to the Dentist?
Children are like adults, meaning they should visit my office every six months for comprehensive dental checkups and teeth cleanings. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends this schedule, which has been shown to reduce cavity and gum disease risks in patients of all ages.
If your child has an oral health issue, I may customize their visit schedule to accommodate their needs. Of course, I’ll discuss all the findings with you.
What Treatments and Services Do You Offer for Kids?
I offer full-service children’s dentistry in Lodi and Elk Grove, CA. I add age-appropriate treatments and services as your child grows, including monitoring their oral development.
- Comprehensive Checkups—A thorough visual exam
- Teeth cleanings (after a certain age)—A way to rid their teeth of tartar and bacteria, reducing tooth decay.
- Fluoride treatments—A way to strengthen tooth enamel.
- Dental sealants—A way to protect teeth from cavity-causing debris.
- Mouthguards—To make sports safer for your child’s smile.
- Space maintainers—To hold spaces for adult teeth when baby teeth are lost too soon.
- Cavity treatment—Tooth-colored fillings and custom crowns.
- Root canals—A way to clear infection from a painful tooth.
- Emergency dentistry—Treatment as soon as possible for your child
For older children, I offer orthodontic evaluations, nightguards for teeth grinding, and wisdom teeth extractions.
How Can I Encourage My Child to Keep Their Teeth Clean?
My team and I can make specific recommendations based on your child’s understanding and temperament, but we recommend keeping it fun!
- Allow your child to choose their own toothbrush as long as it’s soft-bristled and approved by the American Dental Association.
- Choose a two-minute song and encourage your child to brush their teeth until the song finishes. Some toothbrushes play a two-minute song just for this reason.
- Talk to your child about the tooth fairy. Let them know that the tooth fairy wants to collect cavity-free teeth from beneath the pillow.
My team will let you know when your child is ready to try independent brushing, usually in early elementary school. They can help your child transition and demonstrate techniques for healthy teeth and gums.
Do You Offer Any Dental Savings Clubs or Specials?
My dental practice offers a membership club, ideal for patients without dental insurance. Ask a team member for details, including costs, limits, and exclusions.
Oak Tree Dentistry also offers periodic specials to help local families save!
Are You Looking for Children’s Dentistry in Lodi or Elk Grove, CA?
We have two convenient locations to serve you better and are always happy to welcome children and families into our practice.
To learn more about our treatments and services or if you’re ready to schedule a visit, contact a helpful member of my dental team today.