Pediatric Dentistry
Kid Friendly Dentists
Cosmetic & Family Dentistry
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends children see their dentist after their first teeth erupt or by their first birthday. This is based on research that early detection of oral problems can impact children’s oral health and general health. If problems go undetected, extensive and preventable problems may occur which can be very costly. Cavities occur in children’s teeth much quicker and more easily than in adult teeth.
This occurs because children tend to consume more sugar and primary teeth have thinner shells of enamel for the acid to penetrate. Lastly, bringing your child in at an early age can help alleviate future anxiety that may occur associated with the dentist.
Children's Dental Visit
Our hygienists will provide them with a professional cleaning using hand instruments and an ultrasonic scaler to remove plaque and tartar deposits. Children should be in for regular exams and cleanings to prevent any problems or catch them while small. Children and adolescents will also receive fluoride treatments at each visit. The professional fluoride treatments are 5x stronger than any over the counter fluoride toothpastes.
Enamel is the hardest substance in the body; however, acid producing bacteria in our mouth can cause it to demineralize and decay. Fluoride helps strengthen enamel and can even remineralize early stage cavities. Fluoride can also help alleviate sensitivity especially associated with exposed roots.
We are happy to treat all children at our Metairie dental office. We prefer to treat your entire family in our practice so that our patients always see the same faces making them more comfortable and easing any anxiety they may have. In special cases where children may require the care of a pedodontist, we will refer as necessary.
Dental Sealants
Sealants are thin flowable liquid resins painted in the pits and grooves of the teeth to seal those areas from decay. These pits and grooves are very small and too narrow for a toothbrush to access. We recommend sealants placed on back teeth, especially molars, from 6-15 once they erupt to prevent decay from starting.
Children’s first set of molars erupts around six years of age. Since sealants are essentially plastic coating in constant function in the oral environment, they can sometimes chip or break off. Dr. Jeff Gregsonand Dr. Taylor Haddock will check sealants at each visit to be sure they are still intact and protecting the tooth. If your children have not had sealants placed, contact us today and ask about having them placed. It can save a lot of expenses that may be otherwise preventable.
Request Your Child's Appointment
Please fill out the form on the contact page and one of our patient coordinators will contact you. Alternatively, you may call our Metairie office at (504) 849-0190.