Children's dental care in Belchertown, MA

What Is Children’s Dentistry?

Much like dentistry services designed for adults, dentistry for kids is dedicated to protecting the health of teeth and gums and to resolving any issues with decay, cavities and infections. Your children’s dentist will work to make the experience as pleasant as possible for your little one. We use special care to minimize pain and to ensure that your child’s teeth and gums stay healthy.

When Should You Take Your Child to the Dentist?

Dental experts recommend that children be seen by a qualified dentist before they reach the age of one year. Baby teeth can become damaged or decayed just as adult teeth can. For this reason, visits to the children’s dentist near you can prevent issues with pain and discomfort now and with the development of permanent teeth later.

Children’s Dental Services

Our dental office can provide guidance on brushing and flossing baby teeth and permanent teeth. We can also provide you with recommendations on preventing cavities and promoting better health for your child’s teeth and gums. Your child can be examined either while sitting on your lap or in a dental chair depending on the age of the young child and your preferences.

Teeth Cleaning for Children

We use specialized techniques to make sure your child’s teeth are cleaned properly and effectively. Our kid’s dentist will use proven strategies to make your child comfortable and to remove as much of the plaque as possible from his or her teeth.

Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride treatments are applied to the surface of the teeth and are absorbed into tooth enamel to provide long-lasting protection. A natural cavity fighter, fluoride can help your child’s teeth resist decay and damage.

Dental Sealants

As their name suggests, sealants create a coating for teeth that can seal out decay-causing bacteria.

Fillings

When cavities do occur, your children’s dentist can provide customized fillings that can protect against further decay and can promote a healthier bite and stronger teeth.

Pediatric Crowns

Larger cavities and damaged teeth can sometimes benefit from pediatric crowns that fit over the tooth to prevent further damage and to provide a solid biting and chewing surface.

Mouthguards

For older children, making sure that mouthguards are worn during sports activities can protect teeth from injury in falls, spills or collisions. We can provide customized mouthguards that fit your child’s teeth and gums, providing effective protection during athletic practices and competitions.

When Do Baby Teeth Arrive?

The exact age at which baby teeth erupt through the gums varies widely from child to child. Most parents will see at least the beginnings of fussiness, discomfort and teething symptoms at about four to six months of age. The bottom two teeth in the front of the mouth are usually first to appear, followed closely by the corresponding teeth on the top of the mouth.

When Do Baby Teeth Fall Out?

Most children do not lose any of their baby teeth until age six or seven. The front two teeth on top and bottom are usually the first to fall out. The rest will follow in the next few years until, at age 12, most children have replaced their baby teeth with permanent versions.

What Causes Toothaches in Children?

Infections, severe tooth decay and broken or damaged teeth can cause toothaches in children of all ages. Contacting our office as soon as possible is the best way to determine the cause of your child’s toothache and to ensure the best resolution of these issues.

If you are looking for a qualified dentist for your children, we offer comprehensive pediatric dentistry services to help your child’s teeth and gums stay healthy. Call us today to schedule an appointment with our experienced dental staff.