Diagnostic and Preventative Services starting at age 1
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that your child’s first dental visit be scheduled by his/her 1st birthday. It is important for your child to become familiar with the dentist and the staff to build trust, making it easier and more relaxing on their future dental appointments. We want to make their first appointment a pleasurable experience, where they will discover new things about their teeth and oral health. While we encourage parents to accompany their child during their examination appointment, we promote self-independence and encourage that you allow our staff to guide your child through their dental treatment. Parent/caregiver education is also essential at your child’s dental visit.
Baby Oral Health Program
bOHP, was founded at the University of Chapel Hill in 2005 and its goal is to educate dentists on the delivery of oral health to infants and children. It also has a “parent portal” to help parents with any questions they may have regarding the care and development of their child’s teeth. It also helps parents locate a pediatric dentist in their area.
Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride exposure is important for infants and children between the ages of 6 months and 16 years because the primary (baby teeth) and permanent (adult teeth) teeth are coming in during this time frame. New research shows that topical fluoride from toothpastes, mouth rinses, and fluoride treatments are important to help fight decay and to strengthen the development of teeth.
Sealants
Four out of five cavities are found on back teeth in children. To protect them from decay, shortly after eruption, sealants are placed. The sealant acts as a barrier to plague, acid, and food. It is applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth as clear plastic coating.