Dental Care for Children at Petrie Advanced Dental

Pediatric dentistry is a specialized field of dentistry that focuses on the oral health and dental care of children from infancy through adolescence. It’s essential to establish good oral hygiene habits and address dental issues early in a child’s life to ensure a lifetime of healthy smiles. Our Tacoma, WA, dentist offers various treatments designed for children.

If you’re looking to schedule a dental appointment for your child, contact Petrie Advanced Dental today by calling (253) 761-5422.

Pediatric Dental Treatments

Dental Exams

Regular dental exams are essential for the early detection and prevention of dental issues. During a dental examination, your child will receive the following:

Oral Health Assessment: Our pediatric dentists thoroughly examine your child’s teeth, gums, and overall oral health. They look for signs of cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems.
X-rays: If necessary, X-rays may be taken to get a more detailed view of your child’s teeth and jawbone.
Preventive Measures: Based on the examination findings, we may recommend preventive measures such as fluoride treatments, dental sealants, and oral hygiene techniques tailored to your child’s needs.

Dental Cleanings

Professional dental cleanings are vital for maintaining your child’s oral health. Here’s what will happen at your child’s dental cleaning:

Plaque and Tartar Removal: Dental hygienists use specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) from your child’s teeth. This process helps prevent cavities and gum disease.
Polishing: After plaque and tartar removal, your child’s teeth are polished to remove surface stains and make them smoother.
Education: Our dental hygienists will educate your child about proper brushing and flossing techniques, helping them establish good oral hygiene habits.

Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride treatments are essential for strengthening tooth enamel and preventing decay.

Application: Our dentist will often apply fluoride varnish to your child’s teeth. It’s a quick and painless process.
Reinforces Enamel: Fluoride helps remineralize and strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria and sugary foods.
Cavity Prevention: Regular fluoride treatments can significantly reduce the risk of cavities in your child’s teeth.

Dental Sealants

Dental sealants provide an additional layer of protection for your child’s molars.

Coating Application: Sealants are applied to the chewing surfaces of the molars, where pits and fissures are prone to trapping food and bacteria.
Prevent Cavities: Sealants create a barrier that prevents food particles and bacteria from settling in these grooves, reducing the risk of cavities.
Painless Procedure: Applying sealants is painless and does not require drilling or numbing.

Dental Fillings

If a cavity is detected during a dental examination, our dentist will recommend a dental filling.

Tooth-Colored Fillings: Our dentist uses tooth-colored composite fillings that blend seamlessly with your child’s natural teeth.
Removal of Decay: The decayed portion of the tooth is removed, and the filling material is placed to restore the tooth’s function and appearance.
Preserve Tooth Structure: Tooth-colored fillings preserve more of the natural tooth structure than traditional amalgam fillings.

Pediatric Dental Crowns

Pediatric dental crowns are a dental treatment option designed to restore damaged or decayed baby (primary) teeth. Dental crowns for children serve several important purposes:

Protection: Crowns protect weakened or damaged baby teeth from further decay or fracture.
Restoration: They restore the tooth’s shape, function, and appearance, ensuring proper biting and chewing.
Preservation: Crowns preserve space for permanent teeth by preventing early loss of baby teeth.

Orthodontic Consultations

Orthodontic consultations by pediatric dentists involve:

Bite Assessment: We’ll assess your child’s bite, alignment, and jaw development.
Early Intervention: If issues like overcrowding or misalignment are detected, your child may be referred to an orthodontist for early treatment, such as braces or orthodontic appliances.
Monitoring: Even if immediate intervention isn’t necessary, your child’s bite and alignment will be monitored over time to ensure timely orthodontic care if needed.

Tooth Extractions

There are certain situations where tooth extractions may be required, including:

Severe Tooth Decay: In cases of extensive tooth decay that can’t be treated with fillings or other methods, extraction may be necessary to prevent further infection.
Crowded Teeth: Tooth extractions may be recommended if your child’s mouth is overcrowded, creating alignment problems.

Our pediatric dentist is skilled at making the tooth extraction process as comfortable as possible for your child, often using local anesthesia when needed.

Emergency Care

Our Tacoma dentist is here to handle any dental emergencies that may arise.

Prompt Treatment: In cases of broken teeth, knocked-out teeth, or dental injuries, seeking immediate care from a pediatric dentist can often save the tooth or prevent further damage.
Pain Management: We’re experienced in managing pain and anxiety in children, ensuring a less traumatic experience during emergencies.
Follow-up Care: They also guide post-emergency care and necessary follow-up appointments.

If your child is experiencing a dental emergency, please don’t hesitate to contact our Tacoma pediatric dental office as soon as possible by calling (253) 761-5422.

Tips for Parents and Guardians

To ensure your child achieves pristine oral health at an early age, keep the following tips in mind:

Start Early: Schedule your child’s first dental appointment around their first birthday or when their first tooth emerges.
Set a Good Example: Show your child the importance of regular dental care through your oral hygiene routine.
Monitor Diet: Limit sugary snacks and drinks, as they can contribute to cavities. Encourage a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Brush and Floss Together: Make brushing and flossing a fun and regular family activity.
Regular Check-ups: Stick to a consistent schedule of dental visits, as recommended by your pediatric dentist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some common preventive measures provided by pediatric dentists?

Pediatric dentists offer a range of preventive measures, including dental cleanings, fluoride treatments, dental sealants, and oral health education. These interventions help protect children’s teeth from decay, strengthen enamel, and teach them how to maintain proper oral hygiene practices. By preventing dental problems, pediatric dentists ensure children have a strong foundation for lifelong oral health.

How can pediatric dentists help manage my child’s dental anxiety or fear?

Pediatric dentists are trained to create a child-friendly and welcoming environment in their offices. They use techniques such as gentle communication, distraction, and positive reinforcement to help children feel more comfortable during dental visits. Additionally, they have experience addressing dental anxiety and can guide parents on how to prepare their children for dental appointments.

Experience the Difference With Our Pediatric Dentist

Your child’s oral health is crucial for their overall well-being, and pediatric dentistry offers many benefits to ensure their teeth and gums are healthy. Don’t wait until a dental problem arises, take action now to prevent issues from developing in the first place.

Contact our Tacoma pediatric dentist today to schedule an appointment and give your child the gift of a lifetime of healthy smiles. Petrie Advanced Dental proudly provides comprehensive dental services to patients in Lakewood, Federal Way, Puyallup, Gig Harbor, and University Place.