Getting to know families is one of the greatest rewards of being a dentist. There’s nothing quite like watching kids progress from teeth-with-gaps grins to the broad, confident smiles of maturity. It all starts with that first time in the “big chair.”
Trusted San Diego dentist Dr. Jennifer Santoro knows that this will be a memorable day in the life of your child, and that first impressions are important.
Baby Teeth
Although this first visit is often not a top priority for busy parents, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends children see the dentist before their first birthday, or as soon as teeth begin to appear. The first exam allows Dr. Santoro to gently clean the teeth, apply fluoride if appropriate to strengthen the teeth against decay, examine the gums, and check for any emerging problems. The focus will always be on the comfort of your child.
In some cases, an evaluation will identify a problem that could affect your child’s development. For example, baby teeth play an important role in ensuring that permanent teeth come in properly. They are also essential as a child learns to speak the first words and explore new foods. So when there is decay observed in a baby tooth, it is important to fill the cavity and preserve the tooth. A baby tooth cavity can actually spread to the permanent teeth below, and cause pain and infection of the gums.
Dental sealants may also be used to fortify at-risk teeth during early childhood appointments, if the parents choose this option. Sealants are thin coatings that are applied to teeth in liquid form, then hardened with light or chemical activation. Children’s teeth are particularly vulnerable to decay as soon as they emerge, as tooth enamel has not yet reached its peak strength.
Lifelong Habits
As part of the first visit, Dr. Santoro will explain the best ways to care for your child’s teeth at home. Learning a daily routine that promotes oral health is a great gift for any young child. Another rewarding routine is getting in the habit of visiting our office every six months. As your child gets older, Dr. Santoro can help monitor plaque buildup, provide more thorough cleanings, and even supply mouth guards to protect the teeth during youth sports.
To schedule your appointment, or to learn more about pediatric dental care, call Dr. Santoro at (858) 566-8510, or email Village Center Dentistry in Scripps Ranch today.
