Dentistry for Kids
Portland, OR
Dentistry for Kids provided by Dr. Sheryl Weissman
in Portland, OR at Weissman Dental
 When it comes to dentistry for kids, it's never too early to teach a child the benefits of oral health care. This can begin as early as infancy when you can incorporate wiping down your baby's gums with a gauze pad or wet washcloth after nursing or bottle feeding.
Sadly, studies have shown that tooth decay is the most prevalent chronic condition in children before one year of age. However, there are ways to keep children's teeth and gums healthy through parental involvement and preventive dentistry at Weissman Dental.
Baby Teeth Are Important
Although primary teeth fall out, it's still extremely important to practice healthy mouth care as they come in. One reason for this is that these teeth can serve as space savers and guides for permanent teeth. When adult teeth begin to erupt, the roots of the primary teeth dissolve so they can fall out. When baby teeth fall out prematurely, the surrounding ones will shift toward the empty spaces.
This reduces space for permanent teeth, so we may recommend a space saver from our office. In all cases, issues with primary teeth should be addressed as soon as possible. They are just as susceptible to tooth decay and cavities as permanent teeth.
When to Begin Dental Visits
Teaching your children how to care for their own teeth and gums at home is highly important. However, it's also very helpful if they get used to dental visits as early as possible to begin eliminating any fears. We do our best to make appointments for children as fun as we can, from wearing a fun pair of sunglasses to letting them pick out a toothbrush.
The recommendation from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry is that you should schedule your child's first dental visit around age one, or at least within six months of the first primary tooth erupting.
We also include education in early childhood visits, including brushing and flossing tips, healthy foods, and general maintenance. All of these practices help us build strong relationships with our young patients and alleviate the common fear of going to the dentist.
What to Expect at Your Child's First Dental Visit
In order not to overwhelm babies and children on their first visit, we try to make it short and informal. However, this does not mean that we'll rush you out of the office. We understand that you may have many questions about your child's oral health, and we will be available to answer all of them. You may even want to compile a list of questions prior to the appointment.
Depending on your child's comfort level and age, Dr. Weissman may ask you to hold them while we examine their mouth. Then again, we may ask that you sit just out of sight so that your child can have some quality time with our staff. We will check for tooth decay and check your child's gums, bite, and jaw. This will be followed by a gentle cleaning and a fluoride preparation if we discover staining or a risk for cavities.
Schedule Your Kid's Dental Appointment in Portland, OR Today!
At Weissman Dental, we love introducing children to the dentist in a way that makes them feel safe and at ease. For more information about dentistry for kids, call our office at (503) 274-2222 to schedule.
FAQs
What is dentistry for kids?
Dentistry for kids focuses on helping children develop healthy teeth and gums as they grow. At Weissman Dental, our dental team provides gentle preventive care, monitors tooth development, and helps children build positive dental habits from an early age.
When should my child have their first dental visit?
Children should usually have their first dental visit around the time their first tooth appears or by their first birthday. Early visits allow our dentists to check development, answer parent questions, and help your child become comfortable with dental care.
How often should children see the dentist?
Many children benefit from dental checkups and cleanings about every six months, but some may need a different schedule based on cavity risk, oral hygiene, tooth development, or existing dental concerns. Our dental team can recommend a visit frequency that supports your child’s oral health.
Are dental sealants helpful for children?
Yes, dental sealants can help protect the chewing surfaces of back teeth where food and bacteria often collect. Sealants create a thin protective layer over grooves in the teeth, which can lower the risk of cavities in areas that are difficult for children to brush well.
How can I help my child prevent cavities at home?
You can help prevent cavities by encouraging your child to brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss once teeth begin touching, limit sugary snacks and drinks, and drink water often. Weissman Dental can also provide age-appropriate tips to make home care easier.
What if my child feels nervous about the dentist?
It is common for children to feel nervous before a dental visit. Our dentists use gentle communication, explain care in kid-friendly terms, and work at a comfortable pace to help children feel more at ease while building trust with the dental team.
FAQs
What is cosmetic dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of your teeth, gums, and overall smile. It can address concerns such as discoloration, chips, gaps, uneven edges, worn teeth, or misshapen teeth while also supporting healthy function.
Who is a good candidate for cosmetic dentistry?
A good candidate for cosmetic dentistry is someone who wants to improve the look of their smile and has healthy teeth and gums or is willing to complete any needed dental care first. At Weissman Dental, our dentists will evaluate your oral health, listen to your goals, and recommend treatment options that fit your needs.
What cosmetic dental treatments are available?
Cosmetic dental treatments may include teeth whitening, dental bonding, veneers, crowns, tooth-colored fillings, clear aligners, or other services designed to enhance your smile. Our dental team will explain which options may be appropriate based on your concerns, tooth structure, and overall oral health.
Can cosmetic dentistry fix chipped or uneven teeth?
Yes, cosmetic dentistry can often improve chipped, uneven, or worn teeth. Depending on the size and location of the concern, our dental team may recommend bonding, veneers, crowns, or contouring to create a smoother, more balanced smile.
How long do cosmetic dentistry results last?
The lifespan of cosmetic dentistry results depends on the treatment, your oral hygiene, daily habits, and routine dental care. Brushing, flossing, regular checkups, and avoiding habits like chewing on hard objects can help protect your results and keep your smile looking its best.
Can cosmetic dentistry make my smile look natural?
Yes, cosmetic dentistry can be planned to create a natural-looking smile that fits your facial features, tooth shape, and personal preferences. Weissman Dental will work with you to choose treatment options that enhance your smile without making it look artificial. |
