When to Start Pediatric Dentistry in Langley
The Canadian Dental Association recommends that children have their first dental visit within six months of their first tooth appearing, or by their first birthday. This early start allows us to monitor development, identify potential concerns, and provide guidance on proper oral care for infants and toddlers.
These initial visits are typically brief and focus on examination rather than treatment. We check for signs of tooth decay, assess bite development, and discuss feeding practices, teething, and cleaning techniques appropriate for your child’s age. Parents often have questions about fluoride, thumb sucking, pacifier use, and when to expect certain teeth. We address these concerns and provide practical advice you can apply at home.
Services for Growing Smiles
Our pediatric dentistry in Langley includes preventive care, treatment, and education tailored to each stage of childhood development.
Preventive Care
- Routine cleanings and examinations to monitor oral health
- Fluoride treatments to strengthen developing enamel
- Dental sealants to protect back teeth from decay
- X-rays to check development and identify hidden problems
- Nutritional counseling regarding foods and drinks that affect teeth
Restorative Treatment
- Fillings for cavities using safe, appropriate materials
- Space maintainers when primary teeth are lost prematurely
- Treatment for dental injuries or trauma
- Pulp therapy when decay affects the inner tooth structure
Education and Habit Formation
- Proper brushing and flossing techniques demonstrated at an age-appropriate level
- Guidance on managing thumb sucking or pacifier use
- Discussions about diet and its impact on dental health
Creating Comfortable Experiences
Many adults avoid dental care because of negative childhood experiences. We recognize this and take deliberate steps to make visits feel safe and manageable for young patients.
Our team uses language children understand, explaining procedures in simple, non-threatening terms. We show them the tools before using them and move at a pace that respects their comfort level. For anxious children, we might start with just counting teeth or letting them sit in the chair before attempting any examination.
Parents play an important role in shaping their child’s dental attitudes. We encourage you to use positive language when discussing dental visits, avoid sharing your own dental anxieties, and frame appointments as normal, helpful parts of taking care of our bodies. Reading books about dental visits or playing pretend dentist at home can also help prepare younger children.
Preventing Childhood Tooth Decay
Tooth decay remains one of the most common childhood diseases, yet it’s largely preventable. Baby teeth matter more than many parents realize. They hold space for permanent teeth, help with proper speech development, and allow children to eat a varied, nutritious diet.
Decay often begins when sugary liquids remain on teeth for extended periods. Putting babies to bed with bottles of milk, formula, or juice can lead to what’s sometimes called baby bottle tooth decay. We recommend wiping infant gums with a clean, damp cloth after feedings and transitioning away from bottles by the first birthday.
As children grow, limiting sugary snacks and drinks between meals helps protect teeth. Water and milk are the best beverage choices. When treats are consumed, having them with meals rather than as constant snacks reduces the time teeth are exposed to sugar.
Regular brushing becomes essential as soon as the first tooth appears. Use a soft-bristled brush with a smear of fluoride toothpaste for children under three, and a pea-sized amount for those aged three to six. Parents should brush their children’s teeth until they develop the dexterity to do it properly themselves, usually around age seven or eight, and continue supervising afterwards.
Supporting Development and Alignment
We monitor how your child’s teeth and jaw develop over time. Some alignment issues resolve naturally as children grow, while others benefit from early intervention. If we notice concerns about bite development, crowding, or jaw growth, we’ll discuss whether a referral to an orthodontist might be appropriate.
Habits like prolonged thumb sucking or tongue thrusting can affect tooth position and jaw development. We can offer strategies to help children move past these habits at the right time, without shame or pressure that might make the behaviour more entrenched.
Schedule Your Child’s Visit
If your child hasn’t had their first dental appointment yet, or if it’s time for their regular checkup, contact Forest Hills Dental Centre. Drs. Mandeep and Sandeep Toor and our team serve families throughout Langley with gentle, respectful pediatric dentistry that prioritizes both immediate comfort and long-term oral health. We’re here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and help your child develop a positive relationship with dental care.