As parents, we want our kids to have healthy smiles for life. And regular visits to a pediatric dentist are essential for keeping their oral health in tip-top shape.
At Alana K. Macalik, DDS, our experienced and friendly staff provides comprehensive dental care for children in a welcoming environment. Our Arlington dentist, Dr. Macalik, breaks down the importance of pediatric dentistry, when to take your child to the dentist, and gives tips for parents here.
What Is a Pediatric Dentist?
A pediatric dentist is a licensed specialist with two years of post-graduate training focused on children’s dental care.
While Dr. Macalik isn’t a specialized pediatric dentist, she received extensive training in pediatric dentistry during her dental school curriculum. This training enables her to provide excellent dental care for children and help them develop good oral hygiene habits. If your child requires specialized care, Dr. Macalik can refer you to a trusted pediatric dentist in Arlington, TX.
When Should I Take My Child to the Dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that children see a dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth appearing. This early visit helps the dentist evaluate your child’s overall health, provide oral hygiene tips, and address any issues.
It also lets your child get used to our office, making future visits more comfortable. After the first visit, your child should see us every six months for regular checkups.
What Do Our Pediatric Dentistry Services Include?
We offer various pediatric dentistry services to keep your child’s smile healthy, including, but not limited to, the following:
Dental Exams
Regular dental checkups are important for keeping your child’s teeth and gums healthy. During these checkups, Dr. Macalik will look for any problems like cavities or infections and treat them early.
Dental Restoration
If your child has cavities or damaged teeth, Dr. Macalik can fix them with safe and gentle procedures like fillings and crowns. These treatments will make your child’s teeth healthy and strong again.
Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride treatments help protect children’s teeth as they grow. Dr. Macalik may use fluoride varnish or gel on your child’s teeth to make them stronger and less likely to get cavities.
Dental Cleanings for Children
Our hygienists use special tools to remove plaque, strains, and tartar from your child’s teeth. These cleanings also help keep their teeth bright and white.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are thin plastic coats put on the back of the teeth to prevent cavities. These sealants make the grooves and pits on the chewing surfaces of the teeth smoother, making them easier to clean.
Pediatric Dentist vs. General Dentist
While regular dentists can care for children’s teeth, pediatric dentists have special training and experience working with kids. They create a fun environment for children, making dental visits less scary.
Pediatric dentists also know how to address developmental issues, teach good oral hygiene habits, and provide the right treatments for your child’s age.
Pediatric Dentistry Tips for Parents
Parents play a big role in keeping their kid’s teeth healthy. Here are some tips to help your child develop good oral hygiene habits:
- Clean your child’s teeth from the start. Use a soft cloth at first, then switch to a toothbrush as they grow.
- Floss your child’s teeth when their molars come in. They may not be able to floss themselves until they’re older.
- Let them pick a toothbrush and toothpaste they like. This makes brushing more fun.
- Play music or sing a song while your child brushes to make it more enjoyable.
- Tell them how important it is to have a clean mouth.
- Don’t let your child eat too much candy or sweets. Sugar causes cavities. Be aware that crackers or pretzels stick to teeth sometimes more than candy and can cause cavities, too!
- Take your child to the dentist every six months for a checkup; this helps make sure their teeth and gums are healthy.
Contact Our Arlington Pediatric Dentistry Office Today!
Call 817-496-7899 or contact Alana K. Macalik, DDS, today to schedule an appointment for your child’s dental care! Our experienced team will guide your little one towards a lifetime of healthy smiles.
