Children’s Dentist in Commack and Dix Hills

When Should Children Visit the Dentist for the First Time?

It’s highly recommended that children visit a dentist for the first time before they reach their first birthdays. While you may not think it possible, tooth decay can begin to set in as soon as the first tooth has erupted. In addition to this, once children have grown two teeth right next to each other, those teeth need to be regularly flossed to prevent decay and cavities from setting in.

Another common issue in babies and toddlers is baby bottle tooth decay. This condition occurs when children go to sleep sipping on a bottle or a sippy cup, allowing liquids such as juice, formula, milk, and sugar to sit on the teeth. This allows sugar to remain on the teeth and leads to tooth decay. Therefore, we do not recommend that a child go to sleep with a bottle or sippy cup.

What Happens During a Children’s Dentist Appointment?

The first thing the dentist will do is examine a child’s teeth and jaw alignment. The dentist will search for any problems such as tooth decay. Pediatric dentists will usually allow the child to sit in a parent or guardian’s lap during the examination if necessary.

If the dentist needs to take dental x-rays to look for signs of decay or other problems, he or she will do so during your child’s visit. Small children usually don’t require dental x-rays.

Our children's dentist in Commack offers the following services:

1. Teeth Cleaning for Children: Our dentists and dental hygienists are experts at getting children to sit calmly for a professional dental cleaning.
2. Fluoride: Fluoride applied to the teeth strengthens the enamel and prevents cavities.
3. Dental Sealants: Placing thin plastic layers over the back teeth prevents food and bacteria from becoming trapped in the grooves of the teeth. This helps prevent tooth decay and cavities.
4. Dental Bonding: When a tooth is chipped or mildly fractured, a children’s dentist can use a tooth-colored substance to repair the tooth.
5. Fillings: Cavities are a common occurrence in children. Our dentists can remove the affected area of the tooth and fill it with a filling made from amalgam or tooth-colored materials.
6. Baby Root Canal: Tooth decay that reaches the roots of the tooth can damage the blood vessels and nerves contained within. Your child’s dentist may recommend a root canal to save the tooth.
7. Pediatric Crowns: Crowns are placed over a tooth that has had a root canal or a cavity that is too large to fill.
8. Mouthguards: If your child participates in any type of athletic activity, we highly encourage a mouthguard. This device can prevent teeth from breaking, becoming loose or falling out when a blow to the face happens.

When Do a Child’s Baby Teeth First Come In?

The baby teeth typically begin to emerge sometime around six months of age. Some babies start growing their teeth at four months, while others may not grow a tooth until sometime around a year old.

When Do a Child’s Baby Teeth Start to Fall Out?

Baby teeth tend to start falling out when a child is around the age of six. This may occur slightly earlier or later in some children.

Why Does My Child Have a Toothache?

Toothaches are a common issue in dentistry for kids. They are typically caused by severe tooth decay, cavities, infections, or injuries. If your child is complaining of a toothache, you should have him or her seen by our professional dental team at Helfner Dental Associates for treatment as soon as possible. Contact us to schedule an appointment.