Why Should My Child Have a Pediatric Dentist?
Portland, OR
 Just like you, your child needs to practice good oral hygiene habits to keep their mouth happy and healthy. Brushing and flossing are two very essential habits. In addition to these daily habits, your child also needs professional care. However, your child should not see just any dentist. Your child needs specialized care for their unique needs. Great Grins for KIDS - Portland can help.
What is a Pediatric Dentist?
A pediatric dentist, just like all other dentists, attends 4 years of dental school. After those 4 years, we go on to attend an additional 2 to 3 years of specialized education and training. This involves formal education, lectures, and hands-on training with real patients. As pediatric dentists, we specialize in providing dental care specifically for children. We receive an education in child behavior as well as the unique needs of children and their developing mouths. We are also able to provide care for children, as well as adults, with special needs.
What a Pediatric Dentist Does
As pediatric dentists, we are able to provide care for babies, toddlers, children, teens, and individuals of all ages with special needs. We are able to provide many services, including:
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Routine cleanings and exams.
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Sealants and fluoride treatments to help prevent cavities.
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A risk assessment for cavities.
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Treatment for cavities and gum disease.
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Fixing other types of dental injuries, such as chipped or cracked teeth.
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Providing nutrition advice to ensure your child maintains healthy teeth and gums.
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Providing advice for pacifier use and thumb sucking.
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Early orthodontic evaluations.
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Assessing oral health issues your child is experiencing that might point toward other issues such as asthma. |
Helping Your Child Feel Comfortable
The idea of going to the dentist can be scary for children. We strive to provide them with a comfortable, inviting environment from the moment that they walk through the front doors. Our front office staff is very friendly and warm. The waiting room is filled with books, magazines, and toys for children of all ages.
Once in the exam room, we continue to do our best to ensure that your child feels safe and comfortable. We speak to your child in terms they can understand, and use an upbeat, soothing tone. We show your child our tools and explain what we will do with them before we do anything. Our tools are specifically designed for children and are smaller than the dental tools used for adults. You can also help to make the visit more comfortable by having your child hold your hand or by giving them a favorite comfort object such as a blanket or teddy bear from home.
During the course of their visit, we encourage your child, and you as well, to ask questions. We take the time to help you and your child understand how important daily oral hygiene practices are and can help to provide tips for proper brushing and flossing. Our goal is to create a positive experience every time your child steps into our office. This helps to make future visits less frightening and much easier.
As pediatric dentists, we are able to provide the specialized care that your child needs to help them maintain a healthy mouth and a beautiful smile, while also ensuring that their mouth develops properly as they grow. For more information, and to schedule an appointment for your child, call Great Grins for KIDS - Portland at (971) 470-0054 today. |
