Children's Dentistry
At Groveport Smiles, we love treating children! As a parent of three herself, Dr. Garrison understands that our youngest patients require a gentle, caring approach. Putting them at ease early on helps build positive experiences, which eliminates the dental anxiety that so many patients still face as adults.
Why Baby Teeth Are Important
We like to see children starting at about age one. Their baby teeth are beginning to emerge, and it’s critical to keep these teeth healthy. They will eventually fall out, but until they do, they have a job to do.
Baby teeth hold a space for the permanent teeth that will follow. If your son or daughter loses a tooth to decay or gum disease, neighboring drift into the space left behind. There may not be enough room for the permanent teeth to erupt correctly, and they may come in at odd angles. Eventually, this might require braces to fix.
Your Child’s First Dental Visit
With the right approach, there’s no reason for a child ever to become a fearful adult. Building trust at this point is critical, so Dr. Garrison lets your child get used to us at their pace.
Kids are very curious when they’re young. We take advantage of this by showing them our instruments, letting them hold the little mirror or a toothbrush, and giving them a ride in the dental chair.
When we know your child is ready, Dr. Garrison will take a look in their mouth and count their teeth. We never push a child who’s not ready; if it doesn’t work out the first time, don’t worry. We’ll reschedule and try again in a couple of weeks.
Dental Exams and Teeth Cleanings for Your Child
Dr. Garrison performs dental exams to check on the development of your child's teeth and look for any potential problems. Our gentle hygienist will clean their teeth thoroughly and make sure there are no signs of cavities or gum disease.
We can't emphasize the importance of these visits enough. Catching certain dental conditions at a very early age can help prevent the need for more costly dental work as they get older.
Prevention Keeps Your Child’s Smile Healthy
Dental exams and teeth cleanings for your child are essential because it allows us to find and treat problems early on. We can also take other preventive steps to protect your child's smile:
- Dental sealants – Back teeth (molars) have uneven surfaces where bacteria can collect and cause cavities. A dental sealant is a thin coating of plastic that’s placed on these surfaces to seal out cavity-causing bacteria.
- Fluoride application – Fluoride is necessary for strong, healthy teeth. If Dr. Garrison finds that your son or daughter isn’t getting enough, she will recommend an application of fluoride directly onto the teeth.
We Can’t Wait to Meet Your Little One!
At Groveport Smiles, we love treating children of all ages, from toddlers to teens. If it’s time to schedule an appointment for your son or daughter, please call our Groveport, OH dental office to get started.