Dentistry for Children
Welcome to Park West Dental, where we believe that a child’s smile is one of the most vibrant and joyous sights in the world. Ensuring that these smiles remain bright and healthy is our mission and passion. Children’s dentistry in Houston, Texas, is a specialized field that requires a deep understanding of dental care tailored to young patients and a gentle, patient approach that makes dental visits a positive experience for children and parents alike.
What is Children’s Dentistry?
Children’s dentistry focuses on the oral health of infants, toddlers, children, and adolescents. It encompasses many services designed to keep young teeth healthy, detect and treat potential issues early, and educate children on the importance of good oral hygiene habits. At Park West Dental, our pediatric dentist, Dr. David Sun, creates a friendly, welcoming environment that alleviates fears your child may have about visiting the dentist.
Benefits of Children’s Dentistry
Children’s dentistry in Houston holds several benefits for your child. With regular visits to our office, your child’s smile can get the necessary care in prevention and maintenance. Benefits of children’s dentistry include:
- Prevent Tooth Decay and Cavities: Early detection and preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of cavities and other dental issues.
- Establish Healthy Oral Habits: Learning proper brushing and flossing techniques can set the foundation for a lifetime of good oral hygiene.
- Identify Potential Issues: Regular check-ups allow us to identify and address developmental issues early, potentially saving time, money, and discomfort in the future.
Services We Offer at Park West Dental
At Park West Dental, we offer a comprehensive range of children’s dentistry services, including:
- Oral Exams and Preventative Dental Care: Routine exams help monitor the health of your child’s teeth and gums, catching problems before they become serious. Preventative services we offer include fluoride treatment and dental sealants.
- Fillings and Cleanings: To tackle cavities and keep teeth sparkling clean.
- Looking for Tooth Decay and Cavities: Early detection is key to preventing pain and avoiding more complex procedures in the future.
- X-Rays and Other Dental Instruments: Advanced diagnostic tools to get a detailed picture of your child’s oral health and address any issues promptly.
- Extractions and Crowns: When necessary, we perform extractions with care and provide crowns to protect damaged teeth.
- Special Needs Dentistry: Our team is experienced in caring for children with special needs, ensuring they receive the dental care they deserve in a comfortable, stress-free environment.
Your Child’s First Dental Visit
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that a child’s first dental visit occur by their first birthday or six months after their first tooth appears. This initial visit is crucial for setting the stage for lifelong dental health.
Oral Care at Home
At home, you can help take care of your child’s oral health by:
- Using fluoride toothpaste: Fluoride is an excellent way of preventing cavities, and fluoride toothpaste can help protect your child’s teeth. For children under three, we encourage parents to use a rice-sized amount on the toothbrush and a pea-sized amount for children 3-6.
- Teaching proper brushing techniques: When teaching your child to brush their teeth, you can begin with gentle circles on all surfaces of the teeth twice a day. Two minutes of brushing is the ideal amount of time every time they brush, and you can encourage this through positive reinforcement and games to make brushing more fun for your little one.
- Limiting sugary snacks and drinks: Sugary treats are a delight for everyone. However, it is essential to encourage healthy eating habits that promote good dental health. If your little one does have a yummy, sugary treat, have them rinse their mouth or brush their teeth afterward to help avoid tooth decay.
Children’s Dentistry in Houston, TX
At Park West Dental in Houston, TX, we’re dedicated to ensuring your child’s dental experience is as comfortable, enjoyable, and effective as possible. Dr. David Sun and his exceptional team are committed to providing the highest quality care in a warm, nurturing environment. Early dental care is a crucial step towards a lifetime of healthy smiles.
We look forward to participating in your child’s dental health journey and watching those beautiful smiles grow. Schedule your child’s next check-up with our team today!