Pediatric Dentistry, Setting Your Child Up for a Lifetime of Good Oral Habits
Congratulations on the arrival of your baby! But are you prepared to care for your son or daughter’s dental care? If you have no clue, you are in the right place. Our goal at Surrey Place Dental Group is to provide your young one with the highest dental care in a fun, family-like, and high-technology practice. We care for your children from 12-18 months through their teens and beyond.
Why dental care for kids matters
According to the Canadian Dental Association, you should take your baby to a dentist within six months after the first tooth erupts and no later than their first birthday. While the “baby teeth” will eventually fall out, it doesn’t mean that children’s dental care doesn’t matter. Like adults, children deserve the proper dental care to:
- Prevent gum disease: Poor oral health may lead to plaque accumulation, which attracts harmful bacteria that inflame gums and cause bleeding.
- Prevent tooth decay: Cavities are an ever-present menace for kids. While genetics and certain medical conditions may trigger cavities, poor oral hygiene doesn’t help the situation. When food particles are left on teeth, they attract harmful bacteria that produce acidic substances that erode the enamel.
- Avoid bad breath: Like adults, toddlers and children can have bad breath. Optimal dental care is effective in eliminating bad odour-causing bacteria.
Our child-friendly services
Looking for a dental practice with services tailored to meet your child’s oral care needs? Look no further than Surrey Place Dental Group. Our dentists and the team offer a rich menu of kid-friendly services, including:
- Dental exams to check the development of your child’s oral structures
- Dental cleaning to remove plaque and tartar in “tight spots” in the mouth
- Gentle dental extraction services for severely decayed or damaged teeth
- Tailor-made education on taking proper care of your child’s dental health at home
- Dental sealants to protect decay-prone teeth
While you can take your child to a general dentist, finding one skilled in handling children is preferred. Pediatric dentists are better placed to manage oral health issues common in infants, teenagers, and anyone in between.
Frequently Asked Questions Children’s Dentistry
When should my child first visit the dentist?
Ideally, your child’s first dental appointment should happen by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth. These early visits help ensure your child’s oral development is on track and allow our team of dentists to spot any early issues. It also helps your child become familiar with the sights, sounds, and routines of the dental office, setting the stage for a lifetime of comfortable, confident visits.
What happens during a child’s first dental check-up?
The initial visit is gentle, simple, and focused on making your child feel safe. Our team of dentists will do a visual exam to check teeth, gums, and bite alignment. If needed, a light cleaning may be done. You’ll also get helpful guidance on teething, brushing baby teeth, and tips for healthy eating. The goal is to introduce your child to dental care in a fun, supportive way that builds trust over time.
How often should kids go to the dentist?
Children should generally visit the dentist every six months for routine cleanings and exams. These regular check-ups help prevent cavities, track dental development, and build good oral hygiene habits. For kids who are cavity-prone or wearing orthodontic appliances, more frequent visits might be recommended. Our team of dentists will tailor your child’s schedule based on their unique needs and risk factors.
What are dental sealants, and do kids need them?
Sealants are a thin, plastic-like coating applied to the back molars to help prevent tooth decay. Even with good brushing, these teeth have deep grooves that can trap food and bacteria. Sealants create a smooth surface that’s easier to keep clean. They’re quick to apply, painless, and provide long-lasting protection—especially useful during the cavity-prone years. Our team of dentists often recommends them once a child’s permanent molars come in, typically around ages 6 and 12.
Why should I care for baby teeth if they’re going to fall out anyway?
Even though baby teeth are temporary, they play a big role in your child’s oral and overall health. Healthy baby teeth serve as spacers for adult teeth and aid in the development of speech and chewing. Their premature loss can impact the way permanent teeth erupt due to decay or trauma, which may result in problems with alignment. Keeping them clean and cavity-free sets the stage for a healthy adult smile.
How can I make dental visits less stressful for my child?
Start by using positive language when talking about the dentist. Avoid saying “it won’t hurt,” which can introduce fear. Reading books or watching kid-friendly videos about dental visits can also help. At Surrey Place Dental, Dr. Loewen and the team use a friendly, easygoing approach that keeps kids engaged and calm. We take the time to explain things clearly, celebrate small wins, and make the visit as fun as possible.
What should I do if my child has a dental emergency?
If your child chips a tooth, knocks one out, or is experiencing dental pain, call us right away. We’ll walk you through immediate steps and get you in quickly. For knocked-out permanent teeth, try to place the tooth back in the socket or keep it in milk and get to the office quickly. Our team of dentists provides prompt, compassionate care to help restore your child’s smile and comfort.
What if my child is nervous about visiting the dentist?
It’s normal for children to feel anxious about dental visits, especially if it’s their first time. At Surrey Place Dental, Dr. Loewen and his team use a gentle, friendly approach to help kids feel safe and relaxed. We explain each step in kid-friendly terms and even offer distractions or sedation options if needed for extra comfort.
Children’s dentistry you can trust
If you want to set your child up for a lifetime of good oral habits, please dial (604) 969-4212 to book an appointment with Surrey Place Dental Group in Surrey, BC.
