Children's Dentistry
Pasco, WA
 At Bagley Dental, we pride ourselves on treating every member of the family! Our goal is to prevent major dental problems before restorative treatment becomes necessary. This is especially true for our younger patients. J. Andrew Bagley DDS and W. Ryan Bagley DDS and the rest of our amazing team strive to keep your child’s oral health in pristine condition. We offer some preventive and restorative treatments to help us establish a strong foundation that will follow them into adulthood. You can rest assured knowing that your child is in excellent hands!
The Importance of Children's Dental Care
Good oral hygiene practices should be established as early as infancy. That is because your child’s primary (baby) teeth are just as important as their permanent ones. The primary teeth act as placeholders. When your child loses a primary tooth as the result of decay or gum disease, it may cause complications when their permanent teeth erupt. The surrounding teeth will compensate for the open space and shift out of position, leading to future misalignments. If a tooth is lost prematurely, we may recommend a spacer to keep the other teeth from shifting.
Prevention is the main objective of children's dental care, which is why we offer sealants and fluoride treatment. A dental sealant is a plastic coating that we bond to the chewing surfaces of the posterior teeth - the molars and premolars. These teeth can be more difficult to clean, especially for children, because they have deep grooves that can trap bacteria and food debris. A sealant will fill these grooves, making them easier to brush. They also seal out bacteria and prevent tooth decay. We also recommend fluoride treatment during regular checkups. Fluoride has proven to strengthen tooth enamel and even reverse minor instances of decay!
Caring for Your Child’s Teeth
Professional cleanings and checkups are crucial to your child’s oral health. However, it all comes down to a strong care routine at home. At their first appointment, we will provide you with expert tips on keeping their mouth healthy and their smile beautiful! If your child is an infant, be sure to clean their gums using a wet washcloth or gauze. Once their teeth begin to erupt, you should use a toothbrush specifically designed for smaller teeth. We may also address your child’s eating habits and the best methods of protection. For instance, we warn parents to stay away from foods that are rich in sugars and starch. We also warn new parents that a child should never be put to sleep with a bottle that contains any liquid besides water. This can lead to a serious condition known as baby bottle tooth decay. As your child gets older, we will show them the proper techniques for brushing and flossing.
Why Choose Us
We know how difficult it is to get your child excited about a trip to the dentist, which is why our staff is welcoming and warm. We want to create a positive experience for you and your child to avoid establishing unnecessary fears or anxieties. J. Andrew Bagley DDS and W. Ryan Bagley DDS and the rest of our staff are willing and able to make any accommodations to ensure your child is comfortable, cared for, and excited about their oral health!
Schedule Your Child’s Appointment
If you would like to learn more, call (509) 547-1631, and schedule your child’s appointment today! |
