Parachute Pediatric Dentistry
Who is Pediatric Dentist
We're pediatric dentists, which means we underwent specialty training in caring for kids and teens. At our practice, we take a conservative approach to dentistry with a focus on preventative care. Our modern approach to pediatric dentistry looks at the whole child—not just their teeth. Health, diet, behavior, and environment all play important roles.
We believe in always approaching children with a positive attitude and providing care for them with compassion and respect. We are a patient-centered practice and we want every child and caregiver to feel listened to, cared for, respected, and informed.
We specialize in pediatric dentistry
Your child's oral health starts with pregnancy. Your oral health has a significant effect on the health of your child, and you should start practicing good hygiene before you have even become pregnant and continue during your pregnancy. Our Dentist will have several recommendations to promote your oral health during pregnancy, such as regular dental cleanings and switching to healthy snacks. We will support you and your child throughout to promote both of your oral health.
Congratulations on your new baby! Even though your baby does not have any teeth, it is still important to keep their mouth fresh and clean. You can do this by gently wiping your baby’s gums after each feeding. Teething starts around 6-months old, and we recommend using a tiny amount of toothpaste, about the size of a grain of rice, to clean your child’s growing teeth.
While your baby is teething, they will also be learning to walk and because of this, injuries are common. Protect your baby’s teeth by placing barriers on sharp corners and hard surfaces. By the time they turn 2, they should no longer be using their pacifier, and by age 3, you should be encouraging your child to discontinue any thumb or finger sucking habits.
Your child is more independent now, but they still need your help to keep their teeth clean. Help them brush their teeth each day with a pea size amount of toothpaste two times a day and floss as well, as the spaces between their teeth are tight. Help make teeth brushing fun, so it is easier to establish a routine with them. If your child is still sucking their thumb or other fingers, dental intervention may be needed. Around 6 years of age, permanent teeth start coming in and may need protection against cavities with dental sealants.
Around 7 to 8 years old, children have the hand-eye coordination to brush properly, but still make sure to check on their brushing habits to make sure the plaque is properly scrubbed away. Emphasize brushing in small circles to prevent gingivitis. Children begin to experience growth spurts and need regular dental visits to check if any modifications need to be made with oral appliances or limited orthodontics. Children also become more active in sports at this age range, and mouth guards are recommended to protect their teeth.
At 12 years and up, your child is gaining more independence and making many of their own decisions about their diet and nutrition. It is your job to keep encouraging good dental hygiene and educating your children on healthy food options and why they will benefit your child. By age 12, your child should have all their permanent teeth and we will start more seriously evaluating your child to determine what kind of orthodontic treatment they may need.
Pediatric dentists are trained to not only treat the dental needs of young individuals but children or adults with special needs. When you make your appointment with us, let us know about any special needs we should be aware of so we can personalize your treatment when you come in for your visit with your child. We recommend you begin with just a site visit so your child can familiarize themselves with our team and the office surroundings.
If your child is participating in aggressive contact sports, we suggest the use of sports mouth guards to protect their teeth from dental trauma that can be sustained during play. The guard is custom fit to your child’s mouth and to ensure full protection. Call us today to learn more.
Opening Hours
Monday: 9 am - 6 pm
Tuesday: 9 am - 6 pm
Wednesday: 9 am - 6 pm
Thursday: 9 am - 6 pm
Friday: 9 am - 6 pm
Saturday: 9 am to 2 pm
Sunday: Closed