Janesville Pediatric Dentistry

The Importance Of Regularly Seeing The Dentist From A Young Age

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends bringing your child to the dentist every six months starting at 12 months, or whenever their first tooth erupts. Seeing a dentist regularly from a young age can be beneficial in many ways for your little ones.

First, your child will become familiar with the process of going to the dentist, which means that they will be less likely to develop dental anxiety in the future. In addition, routine visits will also teach your child about the importance of good oral hygiene habits. Regular appointments will help prevent common issues like cavities and gum disease.

As you and your family visit regularly, Dr. Dreier, Dr. Connie, and Dr. Jim will develop a personal relationship with your child, track their oral development, and address any concerns that may come up as your little one grows.

Common Pediatric Dental Issues

Cavities are, by far, the most common pediatric dental issues. Cavities are caused by improper oral hygiene, which results in the buildup of harmful oral bacteria. These bacteria slowly wear away at your child’s enamel and will eventually cause a cavity if left untreated.

Gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, is also a common issue if your child is not receiving proper oral care. This condition is characterized by swollen and bleeding gums, and may also cause issues like persistent bad breath (halitosis). Proper hygiene (brushing 2-3 times per day for 2 minutes and flossing once per day) is key for preventing gum disease.

Other common dental health issues include teeth grinding and canker sores. Younger children may also suffer from some irritation due to teething, but this is normal.

Starting with the Right Dentist

Forming a relationship with the dentist early is essential to starting your child out on the right track to a healthy smile. Dreier Family Dental’s years of experience working with families is proof of our commitment to providing the most comfortable, educational, and positive experience for your child. We’ve seen members of the Janesville community grow from having baby teeth to having babies of their own! And we’re excited to begin a journey with you.

Reversing Tooth Decay With Fluoride Treatments

Minor cases of tooth decay, called “soft spots” can actually be reversed with fluoride treatments. Fluoride has the unique ability to encourage the remineralization and strengthening of the teeth. One of our dentists will brush a fluoride-rich compound onto your child’s teeth, and leave it in place for several minutes. This treatment is completely non-invasive and painless, and can greatly improve your child’s dental health.

Preventing Cavities With Dental Sealants

Dental sealants consist of a plastic resin that is painted onto your child’s rear molars after their teeth have been cleaned. Once it has been applied, the resin is hardened using a special UV light. The resin forms a strong bond with the teeth and acts as a shield to prevent bacteria, food, and acid from directly contacting the rear teeth. This protective barrier can help prevent tooth decay for up to 10 years, so it’s a good option if your child is prone to cavities.

Making Dental Visits Fun

Bringing your child to the dentist can be tough. Not every kid is receptive to the idea, and some are even scared. To help you encourage the importance of regular dental visits, we make your visit as easy and fun as possible. Make an appointment with our positive, caring and fun staff, and let us show you a different side to dentistry!