As a parent, choosing the right dentist for your child is one of the most important decisions you can make for their health. At Dentistry on 88 in Bradford, Ontario, we understand the unique challenges of keeping your child’s smile healthy. Our pediatric dental services are designed to make dental visits stress-free and even enjoyable for your little ones.

Children’s Dentistry: Early Care, Lifelong Benefits

Taking care of your child’s teeth from an early age sets them up for a lifetime of good oral health. Children’s dentistry focuses not only on addressing issues as they arise but also on teaching children the importance of good oral habits. Regular dental checkups are essential in identifying potential problems early, preventing tooth decay, and ensuring proper development of your child’s teeth and gums.

At Dentistry on 88, we offer a warm, welcoming environment where children can feel comfortable and relaxed during their appointments. Our team is committed to providing gentle, tailored care for your child. With services ranging from routine cleanings and exams to fluoride treatments and sealants, we strive to make every visit a positive experience.

Common Dental Issues in Children

Some common dental issues children face include cavities, teething discomfort, and gum disease. Cavities are often the result of sugary snacks or poor brushing habits. At Dentistry on 88, we provide treatments to address cavities and prevent further issues, such as dental fillings and fluoride applications. Teething can be uncomfortable for infants, but we can offer advice and support to help manage the symptoms. Early detection and treatment of these common issues can help ensure your child’s smile stays bright and healthy.

The Importance of Early Dental Care

The earlier your child starts visiting the dentist, the better. Early dental care not only helps prevent dental issues like cavities and gum disease but also helps your child feel comfortable at the dentist’s office. Establishing a positive relationship with dental care early on can reduce anxiety about future visits and set them on the path to a lifetime of healthy smiles.

At Dentistry on 88, we emphasize the importance of early visits and offer a welcoming environment for children of all ages. Starting at the earliest signs of tooth development, you can ensure your child is on the right track for their oral health.

What to Expect During a Typical Children’s Dental Visit

A child’s first visit to the dentist can be an exciting yet nerve-wracking experience for both the parent and the child. At Dentistry on 88, we understand how important it is to create a welcoming and stress-free environment. Here is what you can expect during a typical children’s dental visit:

Before the Appointment: How to Prepare

Preparation is key to ensuring a smooth dental visit for your child. Here are a few tips to help your child feel more comfortable:

• Talk to Your Child About the Visit: If it is their first dental appointment, it is essential to explain what will happen in a positive, reassuring way. Avoid using words like “pain” or “hurt,” and instead, emphasize that the dentist is there to help take care of their teeth.
  
  
• Bring Comfort Items: Some children feel more at ease with a favorite toy, blanket, or stuffed animal. Bringing something familiar can help them feel more secure.
  
  
• Set Expectations: Let your child know that the appointment might involve sitting in a big chair, having their teeth counted and cleaned, and possibly getting a little toothpaste or “spray” to keep their teeth nice and clean.
  
  

During the Appointment: What the Dentist Will Do

Once you and your child arrive, the team at Dentistry on 88 will make the experience as comfortable as possible:

1. Initial Greeting and Introduction: The dental team will welcome your child with a smile and explain the tools they will be using in an age-appropriate manner. We want to build a positive rapport right from the start.
   
   
2. Dental Exam: The dentist will conduct a thorough examination of your child’s teeth and gums. This may include:
   
   

• Checking for any signs of cavities, gum disease, or other dental problems.
  
  
• Looking for any developmental concerns, such as misaligned teeth or bite issues.
  
  
• Assessing the overall health of the mouth, gums, and tongue.
  
  

1. Cleaning and Polishing: If your child is comfortable, we will proceed with a gentle teeth cleaning. This includes:
   
   

• Brushing and Flossing: Our hygienist will use specialized tools to clean your child’s teeth and remove plaque. They may also floss between the teeth to remove any particles that could lead to cavities.
  
  
• Fluoride Treatment: Depending on your child’s needs, we may apply a fluoride treatment to strengthen their tooth enamel and help prevent decay.
  
  

1. Educational Time: The dentist or hygienist will take the time to explain to both you and your child the importance of good oral hygiene. This includes proper brushing techniques, the importance of flossing, and how to make oral care fun for your little one.
   
   

After the Appointment: What the Dentist Needs from You

At the end of the appointment, the dentist may ask for your input on a few key points to help monitor and maintain your child’s oral health:

• Medical History: Be prepared to discuss your child’s medical history, including any allergies, medications, or past medical issues that could affect their dental care.
  
  
• Dietary Habits: The dentist may ask about your child’s diet, especially their consumption of sugary snacks, drinks, or snacks that can contribute to cavities.
  
  
• Oral Care Routine: The dentist will inquire about your child’s current oral care routine, including how often they brush, what kind of toothpaste they use, and whether they floss.
  
  
• Behavior or Concerns: If your child has any dental anxieties or particular habits (such as thumb sucking), make sure to let the dentist know so they can offer advice on addressing those issues early.
  
  

After the Visit: Next Steps

Once the visit is complete, the dentist will provide you with a summary of their findings and recommendations. If your child’s teeth are in great shape, you will be encouraged to continue their regular dental hygiene routine. For any issues found, such as cavities or the need for orthodontic evaluation, the dentist will discuss a treatment plan with you.

Regular Follow-Up

Typically, children should visit the dentist every six months for regular checkups. At the end of the visit, the dentist will schedule the next appointment and remind you about the importance of maintaining an ongoing dental care routine.

Teaching Your Child to Brush

One of the most important things you can do for your child’s oral health is teach them how to brush their teeth properly. Starting early, ideally around the time their first tooth appears, helps build lifelong habits. Here are some tips:

• Start with the basics: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a small amount of fluoride toothpaste, as recommended by your dentist.
  
  
• Make it fun: Sing songs, use a timer, or choose a toothbrush featuring their favorite cartoon character to make brushing enjoyable.
  
  
• Set a routine: Brushing twice a day – once in the morning and once before bed – helps prevent plaque buildup and cavities.
  
  
• Lead by example: Show your child how to brush by doing it together. This not only helps them learn but also reinforces the habit.
  
  

Plaque Disclosure Tablets: A Fun Way to Teach Good Habits

Teaching your child the importance of brushing away plaque can sometimes be a challenge, but plaque disclosure tablets can make it fun! These chewable tablets temporarily stain plaque that remains on the teeth after brushing, helping you see where your child may need to brush more thoroughly.

At Dentistry on 88, we often use plaque disclosure tablets as part of our educational approach. By showing kids where they missed brushing, we make oral hygiene more interactive and help them understand the importance of thorough brushing.

How Thumb Sucking Affects Oral Health

Thumb sucking is a common habit among young children, but when it persists beyond age 4, it can lead to dental issues such as misaligned teeth and changes in the roof of the mouth. These habits can affect the development of their bite, leading to more complex orthodontic problems later on.

Our team at Dentistry on 88 is experienced in identifying the effects of thumb sucking on a child's oral health. It can offer guidance on breaking the habit before it causes lasting damage. We offer strategies, advice, and, if necessary, devices to help your child stop sucking their thumb.

Diet and Oral Health

What your child eats directly impacts their oral health. Sugary snacks and drinks can contribute to tooth decay, while a balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamins, and minerals can help strengthen teeth. Please encourage your child to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and dairy products like milk and cheese, which are great for their teeth. Additionally, drinking water throughout the day helps wash away food particles and bacteria, reducing the risk of cavities. By making wise choices at meal times, you are setting your child up for a healthy smile now and in the future.

Fluoride and Its Role in Children’s Oral Health

Fluoride is a key ingredient in protecting your child’s teeth against cavities. It helps to strengthen the enamel, the protective outer layer of the teeth, making them more resistant to decay. At Dentistry on 88, we offer fluoride treatments as part of our preventative care services. These treatments are quick, painless, and highly effective in keeping your child’s smile healthy.

Regular fluoride applications can help safeguard your child’s teeth, especially in areas where cavities are more likely to form. Our team will recommend the best fluoride treatments based on your child’s needs.

Services Offered by Dentistry on 88

Our pediatric dental care goes beyond just checkups. We offer a wide range of services specifically designed for children’s dental needs:

• Preventative care: Regular exams, fluoride treatments, and sealants help keep cavities at bay.
  
  
• Restorative care: If your child has a cavity or needs a filling, our team is experienced in providing gentle restorative treatments that help keep their teeth healthy.
  
  
• Cosmetic dentistry: If your child needs aesthetic treatment, we offer safe, effective options for a brighter, more confident smile.
  
  
• Emergency care: We understand that accidents happen. Whether your child knocks out a tooth or is experiencing a toothache, we provide prompt and reliable care when you need it most.
  
  

FAQ: Pediatric Dental Visits

1. At what age should my child first visit the dentist?

It is recommended that children see a dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth coming in. Early visits help establish good oral habits and detect any potential issues.

2. How can I calm my child before a dental visit?

The key is to stay calm and positive. Talk to your child about the visit in a reassuring way, emphasizing that the dentist is there to help keep their smile healthy. Our team is experienced in working with young children and will make their visit as comfortable as possible.

3. How often should my child see the dentist?

For most children, a dental checkup every six months is ideal. This allows us to monitor their oral health, provide cleanings, and address any developing issues.

4. What should I do if my child has a toothache or dental emergency?



If your child is experiencing pain or has had an accident that involves their teeth, contact us immediately. We offer emergency dental services and will schedule an appointment as soon as possible to provide relief and care.

5. Will my child need braces?

Every child’s dental development is unique. After evaluating your child’s teeth and bite, we can determine whether orthodontic treatment is necessary. Early intervention can prevent more complex issues later on.