A child’s first tooth usually appears around 6 months of age, and by age 3, most kids have all 20 primary (baby) teeth. Starting dental care early helps set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. At Fedida Family Dentistry and Dental Spa, we provide pediatric dentistry in Jackson Heights for young patients. Dr. Brandon McDonald is an experienced pediatric dentist and can support your child’s oral development with personalized care.
What is Pediatric Dentistry?
Pediatric dentistry is a special type of dental care just for babies, children, and teenagers. Pediatric dentists are doctors who study extra years to learn how to take care of young people’s teeth and gums. They know how to make kids feel comfortable and safe during dental care visits.
Pediatric dentists like Dr. McDonald understand that children’s teeth are different from adult teeth. Baby teeth are smaller and have thinner enamel. Kids also lose their baby teeth and grow permanent teeth, which needs special care and attention.
Why Starting Dental Care Early is So Important
Many parents wonder when they should take their child to the dentist for the first time. The answer may surprise you. Dental experts say kids should see a dentist by their first birthday. They should also visit within six months of getting their first tooth.
The Benefits of Early Dental Care
Pediatric dental care is an important part of your child’s early healthcare. Routine dental care visits will support healthy oral health and development. Dr. McDonald screens for problems that could affect your child’s oral development including speech and the appearance of their smile. Our pediatric services can:
- Prevent tooth decay: Baby teeth can get cavities just like adult teeth. Starting early helps catch problems before they get worse.
- Build good habits: Kids who visit the dentist early learn that taking care of their teeth is normal and important.
- Reduce fear: Children who start dental visits young are less scared of the dentist as they grow up.
- Save money: Preventing problems costs less than fixing them later.
- Help with speech: Healthy teeth help kids speak clearly and correctly.
- Protect adult teeth: Baby teeth hold space for permanent teeth. If baby teeth are lost too early, adult teeth might not come in straight.
- Catch problems early: Dentists can spot issues like thumb sucking or teeth grinding before they cause bigger problems.
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Common Pediatric Dental Treatments
Pediatric dentists offer many different treatments to keep kids’ teeth healthy. Dr. McDonald provides comprehensive pediatric dental care in our Jackson Heights dentist office.
Regular Checkups and Cleanings
Just like adults, kids need their teeth cleaned every six months to avoid decay and other common dental problems. Dr. McDonald checks for cavities and cleans away plaque and tartar that brushing can’t remove.
Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride is a mineral that makes teeth stronger and helps prevent cavities. Dr. McDonald paints a special fluoride gel on the teeth that tastes like bubblegum or strawberry.
Dental Sealants
Sealants are like invisible shields for teeth. Our dental care team puts a thin coating on the back teeth where food likes to stick. This helps prevent cavities in hard-to-brush places.
Pediatric Cavity Fillings
If a child gets a cavity, Dr. McDonald can remove the decay and fills the hole with special dental material. This stops the cavity from getting bigger and affecting other teeth or the gums.
Space Maintainers
If a baby tooth is lost too early, a space maintainer holds the spot open so the permanent tooth can come in straight. It’s like a placeholder for teeth.