At Suncreek Dental Group, we understand that children are not just small adults. Their mouths, jaws, and teeth are constantly growing and changing, which is why they require a special kind of care. Our pediatric dentistry services are dedicated to the oral health of infants, children, and adolescents, up to age 18, right here in Littleton, CO.
The Pediatric Difference
A pediatric dentist is a specialist who has completed four years of dental school followed by two to three additional years of specialized residency training. This extra education focuses on child psychology, growth and development, behavior guidance strategies, and treating children with special healthcare needs. Our office is designed to be child-friendly, with staff who are experts at helping young patients feel safe, comfortable, and positive about taking care of their teeth.
We believe that establishing a positive dental experience early on is the key to a lifetime of good oral health.
When to Start Dental Visits
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that a child visit the dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth appearing, whichever comes first. This first “well baby visit” is short and simple, focusing on educating parents about:
- Proper home care, including how to clean gums before teeth erupt.
- Teething and pacifier habits.
- The effects of bottle-feeding and diet on teeth.
- Establishing a routine to prevent early childhood tooth decay.
These early checkups allow us to monitor the development of your child’s jaws and teeth, spot issues early, and help prevent minor problems from becoming major ones.
Essential Services for Growing Smiles
We offer a full range of preventive and restorative treatments tailored to the needs of children and teens.
- Routine Checkups and Cleanings: Just like adults, children generally need an exam and cleaning every six months. These visits involve checking the teeth, gums, and bite, and gently removing any plaque and tartar buildup.
- Preventive Treatments:
- Fluoride Treatments: This quick and painless varnish is applied to the teeth to help remineralize the enamel, strengthening it against the effects of plaque and acid, and lowering the risk of cavities.
- Dental Sealants: Sealants are a thin, protective coating painted onto the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars). They smooth out the deep grooves and pits where food particles often hide, preventing up to 80% of cavities in these areas.
- Restorative Care: If a cavity is present, we provide gentle cavity fillings to remove the decayed part of the tooth and restore its function. We often use tooth-colored composite resin for a natural appearance.
- Growth Monitoring and Orthodontic Assessment: Regular dental X-rays and exams help us track the growth of the jaws and the emergence of permanent teeth. Early assessment allows us to identify potential alignment or spacing issues and intervene with simple solutions like space maintainers if necessary, often reducing the severity and cost of future orthodontic treatment.
We are committed to helping every child build a foundation of healthy habits and a fearless attitude toward dental care. Call Suncreek Dental Group at (303) 933-2522 to schedule your child’s first visit today.
If you have questions or concerns about pediatric dentistry, please contact our office.