Pediatric Dentistry
Pediatric Dentistry in Denver, CO
Dentistry Designed Around Your Child
As a parent, you want a dental team that cares about your child’s needs, makes them feel comfortable and relaxed, and has the expertise to ensure their oral health thrives. At our pediatric dental practice, your child is our top priority. Dr. Michael Hoagburg understands every child is different, with varying temperaments, anxieties, and dental health requirements.
Our goal is to make every dental visit pleasant for your child while educating them on proper oral hygiene and instilling healthy habits that set a strong foundation for a lifetime of great dental health. Call our Denver office at 303-333-5148 to set up your child’s first dental appointment!
What is Pediatric Dentistry?
Pediatric dentistry focuses on the dental needs of infants, children, and adolescents. Children’s teeth are susceptible to cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues like adult teeth. Tooth decay is the most common chronic childhood disease.
Starting regular dental visits early allows Dr. Hoagburg to closely monitor the development of children’s teeth and treat minor issues before they become major problems. With a focus on education and prevention, the goal is to instill healthy habits that will benefit kids throughout their lives.
When to Start Visiting the Dentist
The American Dental Association recommends bringing children in for their first dental visit by age one. At this introductory appointment, Dr. Hoagburg performs an exam to make sure the teeth and gums are developing properly. For very young patients, these initial visits focus on evaluating growth, preventing problems, and getting kids comfortable with the dentist.
After the first visit, the ADA advises routine checkups according to the following timeline:
Age 1: First dental visit
Ages 2-18: Checkup every 6 months
Following this routine ensures Dr. Hoagburg detects any issues early and can monitor and treat them.
Common Pediatric Dental Procedures
The most common treatments Dr. Hoagburg performs on young patients in Denver, CO, include:
- Exams and cleanings: Regular exams allow Dr. Hoagburg to check for early signs of decay. Cleanings remove harmful plaque that can cause cavities and gum inflammation.
- Fluoride treatments: Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, so fluoride treatments every 6 months help prevent cavities.
- Fillings: When decay occurs, Dr. Hoagburg will remove it carefully and place a filling to restore the tooth.
- Sealants: Thin plastic coatings placed on the chewing surfaces of molars to prevent decay.
- Extractions: Removing damaged teeth that cannot be repaired.
- Space maintainers: Devices placed to hold space for permanent teeth coming in after a premature loss of primary teeth.
Pediatric Dental Tips
Dr. Hoagburg provides these tips to keep kid’s teeth in Denver healthy:
- Help children brush properly twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily as soon as teeth contact each other.
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks which lead to cavities. Offer nutritious foods and milk or water instead.
- Discuss orthodontics like braces if needed to correct bite issues that could impair oral health.
- Visit Dr. Hoagburg every six months for cleanings and exams to catch problems early.
Frequently Asked Questions
My child has anxiety about going to the dentist. What can help?
What treatments are available if my child has a cavity?
For cavities that extend deep into the tooth pulp, a pulpotomy or root canal procedure may be needed to remove infected tissue and save the tooth. The dentist will explain the best treatment for your child’s particular cavity based on its size and location.
My child plays contact sports. Are mouthguards required?
Custom guards prevent the risk of knocked out, displaced, fractured, and damaged teeth that can occur during youth sports collisions. For your child’s safety and dental health, invest in a high-quality custom mouthguard.
Is fluoride toothpaste safe for infants?
Once they reach age three, a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste is appropriate. Proper use of fluoride toothpaste strengthens enamel and prevents cavities while minimizing any risks.
Bright Smiles Start Here
Your child’s radiant smile and healthy teeth mean so much – safeguard them with great pediatric dentistry. Childhood sets the stage for a lifetime of dental health, so choose a dentist who makes your child’s needs a priority. A kid-friendly environment where your child feels relaxed and understood.
Our dental team takes the time to care for your child gently and thoughtfully. That’s the standard of pediatric dentistry we offer your child. Don’t wait to schedule your child’s next appointment – call 303-333-5148 today. Our compassionate staff look forward to meeting you and your child.
More questions?
If you have more questions about pediatric dentistry and the procedures used by Lowry Advanced Dentistry, please contact our office and we will be happy to discuss further.
