Dental Care, Just for Kids
Getting a head start on your child’s dental health is essential. Ivy City Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in Washington, DC, makes it as easy as possible.
Dr. JC provides personalized care for your child to give them a great dental experience for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Meeting Your Child's Unique Dental Needs
Experts recommend a child's first dental visit six months after getting their first tooth or by their first birthday. This may seem young, but finding a dental home for your child is the key to a lifetime of dental health.
Your first visit to our Washington, DC, office is tailored to your child’s age, personality, and needs. Some children use this time to adjust to the room and our team, while others are ready for a check-up right away.
Dr. JC will make your child comfortable and then examine their mouth and teeth for dental problems. Our practice minimizes the use of X-rays, and we’ll only take them in when it’s necessary for dental treatment.
When New Teeth Arrive
Between six and 12 months of age, your child's first baby teeth will start coming in, and this process will continue until they're about three years old. By the time your child finishes teething, they'll have 20 primary teeth!
During this time, your child's gums might feel tender and sore. Try rubbing a clean finger or a cool, wet cloth on the gums to soothe the discomfort. You can also use a teething ring.
Your child's baby teeth will fall out at different times during childhood. At around age six, permanent teeth will start coming in until around age 21. Adults usually have 28 permanent teeth (32, if you count wisdom teeth).
Adopting Healthy Oral Hygiene Habits
As your child's teeth come in, check them every two weeks for any lines or discoloration that might indicate decay. Remember, sugary foods and drinks can harm new teeth, so ensure your child brushes after eating.
Brushing can be fun, and your child should start as soon as the first tooth appears. Fluoridated toothpaste is recommended for all children once their teeth come in. A toothpaste smear about the size of a grain of rice is enough for kids under three. After their third birthday, they can use a pea-sized amount. For young children, it's best if you dispense the toothpaste and supervise and help with brushing.
Flossing is also important for good oral hygiene, and Dr. JC will let you know when it's the right time to start flossing. If you notice any signs of decay, be sure to contact your dentist right away.
Preventing Tooth Decay with Regular Checkups
Tooth decay happens when sugars in your mouth become acid, damaging your teeth. Kids are at a higher risk for tooth decay because many don't regularly practice good oral hygiene habits. But you can avoid tooth decay by following proper brushing and flossing routines and visiting the dentist regularly.
Your child should come in for dental cleanings and checkups every six months. We recommend fluoride treatments twice a year to keep their teeth strong.
Tooth sealants are also good because they protect the deep grooves in your child's teeth, where decay forms. These sealants last several years, and we'll check them during your child's regular checkups.
Get a Head Start on Your Child's Smile
At Ivy City Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, your child will get exceptional dental care customized to their unique needs. Contact us today to schedule a kids' dentistry appointment with Dr. JC and start a lifetime of healthy, confident smiles.
