Valley Dental Associates

Children Are Special People

Children are naturally curious and we suggest that parents bring their young children with them to observe the office. Acquainting children with good oral hygiene habits - brushing, flossing, and home care instructions - if instilled early creates a positive attitude about dental health that will last a lifetime.

Dental appointments for children are important not only to evaluate tooth and gum health but also to educate the young patient in how to prevent dental problems and maintain a healthy smile throughout his or her life.

During a check-up we will evaluate:

How many teeth are and should be present
Loose teeth
Cavities
Gum health
Bite and habit evaluation

Tongue and speech
Fluoride use
Diet and health history
Home care and prevention

We will also speak with the parent(s), guardian(s) or accompanying adult(s) about how to care for the child's teeth and also answer any questions they may have.

At what age should my child first see the dentists?

We recommend your child's first check-up at around 3 years of age.

What should I tell my child about seeing the dentists?

Tell your child that the dentist is a friendly doctor who will help them take care of their teeth. Talk about the visit in a positive way, as you would about any important new experience.

DON'T...	DO...
Let your child know you feel any anxiety about going to the dentist Bribe your child into going to the dentist Use a dental visit as a punishment or threat Let anyone tell your child scary stories about dental visits.	Consider a "get-acquainted" visit to familiarize your child with the office and the dentist. Talk to the dentist before the visit if you have any concerns Schedule the appointment when your child is usually rested.

Sealants

Sealants are thin, plastic coatings painted on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. Getting sealants put on is simple and painless. They are painted on as liquid and quickly harden to form a shield over the tooth. In general, sealants can last up to 10 years but they need to be checked at regular dental check-ups to make sure they are not chipped or worn away. The dentist can repair sealants by adding more sealant material at any age.

Orthodontics

Orthodontics refers to the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of dental and facial irregularities such as crooked teeth, crowding, spacing, protruding upper teeth, overbite, underbite, open bite and crossbite. Braces and other orthodontic appliances are used to correct these "bad bites" or malocclusions by moving the teeth and jaw into proper alignment. Treatment is designed to help the patient both aesthetically (by improving the smile) and functionally (by improving the bite). Patients who undergo orthodontic treatment often enjoy greater self-confidence with their new smile.

Orthodontic treatment can help patients of all ages, although treatment is most effective as soon as a problem is detected. Children often have an orthodontic exam about the time when they turn 7 to detect and treat any problems early and to ensure optimal results. It is important to treat malocclusions before problems worsen or cause tooth decay, gum disease, surface wearing, stress on the gum and bone, jaw misalignment, headaches or face and neck pain.

At Valley Dental Associates, we will help you decide when is the best time to begin orthodontic treatment, and which orthodontic practice is best for your child.