For Children Under the Age of Three

Dental caries is the number one disease of children in our country. The Academy of Pediatric Dentists recommends that infants and toddlers see a dentist when their first tooth erupts or by their first birthday.

The Infant & Toddler Dental Health Program teaches parents:

• the difference between cavities and caries
• proper diet and how to know what is in your child's foods
• the difference between systemic and topical fluoride
• when supplemental fluoride is needed
• the pattern of eruption and development of teeth
• the effects of a pacifier or thumb habit
• how to brush or floss your infant or toddler's teeth
• what to do in case of dental emergency or trauma

Diet Counseling — Understand the role diet plays in preventing tooth decay and maintaining healthy smiles. Learn to read labels; know what words to look for and to avoid. Learn the role that the bottle or prolonged nursing plays in dental decay rate.

Oral Hygiene — Practice brushing your child's teeth in our office with our guidance and assistance. Learn oral hygiene and proper brushing and flossing, with various techniques demonstrated for uncooperative toddlers.

Growth and Development — Learn the typical order of tooth eruption and the importance of the overall pattern. Pacifier use and thumb habits are discussed, with helpful guidelines for discontinuing their use.

Trauma or Emergency Care — Learn what injuries need to be treated immediately and what to do if a tooth is broken, extruded, intruded, or swallowed; if a lip is injured; or if your child has mouth sores or signs of infection.

Get started on your child's introduction to excellent oral health.

Establish early dental care to meet all the oral health needs of your growing child. Call us today to schedule an appointment in the Infant and Toddler Dental Health Program.