Questions About Pediatric Dentistry
You don’t need to wait until all your child’s teeth come in to start thinking about dental health. In fact, early dental care lays the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. At Gentle Dental, we know how important it is to make those first visits positive, gentle, and even fun. That’s where pediatric dentistry in Topsham ME and Biddeford ME comes in.
We specialize in providing kid-friendly care in a relaxed environment, because when children feel safe and understood, great oral habits are more likely to stick.
What Is Pediatric Dentistry?
Pediatric dentistry focuses on the oral health of infants, children, and adolescents—from the first tooth through the teen years. It’s about more than just cleanings. It’s about education, prevention, early intervention, and helping families set the stage for strong, healthy teeth well into adulthood.
Think of it as a dental roadmap: regular checkups help track growth, spot potential issues early, and guide your child’s dental development.
When Should My Child First See A Dentist?
The American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry both recommend that your child’s first dental visit should happen by age one, or within six months of their first tooth coming in—whichever comes first.
That first visit isn’t just about cleaning—it’s about checking for early signs of decay, discussing nutrition and habits like thumb sucking or bottle use, and helping your child feel at ease with dental care.
Why Baby Teeth Matter (Even Though They Fall Out)
Yes, baby teeth are temporary, but they play a big role in:
- Helping your child chew and speak properly
- Holding space for adult teeth
- Guiding jaw and facial development
- Promoting healthy self-esteem
Neglecting baby teeth can lead to cavities, infections, and even alignment issues down the road. Taking care of them now can prevent big problems later.
What To Expect During A Pediatric Dental Visit
Our goal is to make every appointment positive and pressure-free. Here’s what typically happens during a visit:
- A gentle exam to check teeth, gums, bite, and jaw development
- A thorough but gentle cleaning
- Fluoride treatment (if needed) to strengthen enamel
- Oral hygiene education tailored to your child’s age
- Tips for parents on brushing, flossing, and nutrition
- Space to ask questions—we love them!
We believe in making dentistry something your child can actually look forward to.
Common Pediatric Dental Treatments We Offer
We provide comprehensive care for growing smiles, including:
Dental sealants – A protective coating that prevents cavities in hard-to-brush molars
Fluoride treatments – Strengthen enamel and help fight early decay
Tooth-colored fillings – Safe, discreet treatment for small cavities
Space maintainers – Preserve alignment when a baby tooth is lost early
Emergency dental care – For falls, chips, or other dental injuries
Every treatment is personalized to fit your child’s unique needs and comfort level.
Tips To Keep Your Child’s Smile On Track
Helping your child develop healthy habits early is key. Here’s what we recommend:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste (a smear for toddlers, pea-sized for kids 3+)
- Floss daily, once two teeth touch
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks
- Avoid putting your child to bed with a bottle
- Make dental visits part of your normal routine, just like pediatric checkups
When kids see the dentist regularly, they’re more likely to grow up with fewer dental issues and less fear about dental care.
Pediatric Dentistry That Grows With Your Family
At Gentle Dental, we’re not just treating tiny teeth—we’re building lifelong habits, one smile at a time. Whether it’s your child’s very first visit or a routine cleaning before school starts, we’re here with calm voices, gentle hands, and lots of encouragement.
Ready to schedule your child’s visit? Contact our team today and let’s make dental care a positive experience from the very beginning.
