Dentistry for Kids Missoula, MTOur pediatric dentists use their expertise and skills to assist both infants and kids with their dental health. Unlike adults, children require specialized care. Because they are constantly developing, they need someone who can understand their special dental needs. At Roth Family Dentistry, we dedicate our time to helping kids receive proper oral care and maintain a steady oral hygiene regimen. When Should My Child Visit a Dentist?A child should first visit our office when his or her first tooth comes in to ensure his or her teeth are growing properly. However, if your child still has not had his or her first baby tooth come in by his or her first birthday, we recommend you bring your child to see our specialized staff. This may be a sign that your child is having oral problems that we need to diagnose. After coming for his or her first visit, a child should visit us every six months for regular dental checkups. This will help us evaluate your child’s teeth as they grow in to ensure there are no issues or concerns. We may ask you to bring your child in more often if we need to monitor any oral concerns. This will help us monitor him or her and stay ahead of problems before they become too serious. Fluoride TreatmentFluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral found in many of our foods and beverages. It is also a useful tool in fighting tooth decay. Every day, our teeth lose and gain minerals through the processes of demineralization and remineralization. If the process of demineralization exceeds that of remineralization tooth decay will occur. Professional fluoride treatment allows us to supplement the process of remineralization and prevent potential decay. It can even reverse minor instances of decay. Fluoride treatment is particularly beneficial for patients at a greater risk of tooth decay, such as children, teens, and seniors. Dental SealantsA dental sealant is a thin, plastic coating that prevents cavities and tooth decay. Sealants are usually applied to the occlusal (bite) surface of the molars and premolars. These teeth possess deep grooves and fissures that are much harder to clean, especially for children and teenagers. Sometimes the grooves are so thin that the bristles of a toothbrush are rendered essentially ineffective. A sealant will provide a more even brushing surface and seal off the enamel from harmful bacteria. Preventing tooth decay will ensure your child’s smile remains beautiful for years to come! What Is the Difference Between a Pediatric and General Dentist?Both a general dentist and a pediatric dentist are required to complete a four-year degree in dental school. However, a general dentist can open a practice or start practicing at an already established practice immediately upon graduation. Our pediatric dentists require further training after graduating, often completing a two-year residency program that specializes in infants, children, and teenagers. This type of residency ensures that our staff is knowledgeable and understands the proper development of a child’s baby teeth. They learn how to work alongside parents to create treatment plans and learn how to evaluate and maintain the oral health of a child through his or her journey to adulthood. What Type of Treatments Are Involved With Dentistry for Kids?There is a long list of oral and dental care our professionals provide for kids. Beginning at infancy, our staff members will perform an oral health dental exam, which help identify risks for caries, a known infectious disease in both infants and their mothers. We can also provide guidance to help wean children off pacifiers or sucking their thumbs by offering habit counseling. These types of behavior can lead to misalignment in your child’s teeth if not stopped early on in his or her development. We provide several other services for children, including preventative dental care. Your child can receive biannual exams, dental cleanings, and fluoride treatments to ensure a healthy oral regimen. If your child is suffering from any discoloration or staining, we can provide both a diet and nutritional plan to increase his or her oral health. We also help with cavity repair, dental injuries, diagnosing oral conditions associated with a specific disease, and gum disease management. If you are looking for the best dentistry for kids, our staff at Roth Family Dentistry is here to help. Contact us today at 406-728-2745 to schedule an appointment for your child. |