Toddler & Early Childhood Dental Care

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, parents should take their children to their pediatric dentist when their first tooth emerges or by their first birthday. You may think this is too early for a child to visit a pediatric dentist, but it is not. Research suggests that each year beyond a child’s first birthday, they do not see a pediatric dentist nearly doubles their chances of tooth decay.

Even if your child doesn’t yet have enough erupted teeth to warrant a traditional dental cleaning, these early appointments are essential for you and your little one. The pediatric dentist will examine your child’s mouth, including their gums and any erupted teeth, to evaluate their growth and development. A gentle cleaning may be performed with friendly techniques that introduce little ones to tools used during cleanings so they feel comfortable. These early appointments are great opportunities for parents to receive valuable advice on caring for their child’s oral health through proper hygiene techniques and dietary habits.

As a parent, you want what’s best for your child. Top-quality dental care is no exception. Pediatric dentists undergo extensive training to gain the skills and knowledge to provide a positive in-office experience for kids from infancy through their teenage years. Unlike general dentists, pediatric dentists have a unique, specialized approach to dentistry that allows all children to feel calm, understood, and even excited to visit the dentist, including children with special needs.

When your child steps foot in a Utah Children’s Dental Network practice, they’ll be warmly welcomed and encouraged to make themselves home in the waiting room filled with exciting games and toys. During your child’s appointment, they will be introduced to the smaller child-friendly tools used during their exam and routine cleaning. While your child receives fun, friendly in-office care, they will also be educated on how to take proper care of their teeth at home.

Whether your child is shy and nervous or high-energy and chatty, UCDN specialists are excited and prepared to provide exceptional pediatric dental care they’ll be excited about and will carry with them for a lifetime.

Did you know that cavities are one of the most common chronic childhood diseases in the United States? If left untreated, cavities can destroy teeth, cause infections, and potentially lead to life-threatening conditions like heart disease and diabetes. The good news is that cavities are highly preventable. Here are some common signs your child may have a cavity:

• Tooth Discoloration – White spots on your child’s tooth indicate that a cavity could be forming. If the spot is left untreated, the white spot can darken and move from surface level to deep within the tooth. At this time, decay sets in, and nerve damage occurs, causing your child to experience a painful toothache.
• Tooth Sensitivity – As tooth enamel weakens, dentin is left exposed and vulnerable to hot, cold, and acidic foods, stimulating the nerves and cells within the tooth and causing tooth sensitivity and pain.
• Toothache – A classic toothache is the most definitive sign of a developing cavity. Toothaches can happen suddenly or can be felt after eating something. If your child experiences a toothache that persists for several days, a cavity is likely the reason.

If your child is experiencing any of these symptoms, contact us today to find a UCDN pediatric dentist at a convenient location near you. Our specialists will help treat your child’s existing cavities and educate you and your child on preventative care techniques to avoid future cavities.

Whether you’re new to the beautiful state of Utah and searching for your family’s new dental home or looking for a trusted pediatric dentist for your infant, there is a UCDN provider near you. Please view our list of convenient locations and schedule your appointment today.