Prioritize Your Child’s Oral Health in Chanhassen
Tooth decay and children no longer have to go hand-in-hand. Our focus on preventive dental care includes the latest advances in sealant technology. This helps us better protect your child’s teeth from decay.
Prioritize Your Child's Oral Health
Baby teeth are important as they not only hold space for permanent teeth, but they also are important to chewing, biting, speech and appearance. Most cavities are due to the combination of a poor diet, high in sugary foods and soda, combined with a lack of brushing. Limiting sugar intake and brushing regularly at home can help your child avoid cavities and decay. However, we can add another layer of protection by making sure your child maintains the proper amount of fluoride, adding extra protection with sealants when necessary.
When Should My Child Start Going to the Dentist?
Our children's dentists believe your child’s first regular dental visit should be scheduled around their third birthday. During your child’s first dental visit, we will gently examine the teeth and gums, take x-rays to reveal already present decay and check the development of the permanent teeth under the gums. We may clean your child's teeth and apply topical fluoride to help protect the teeth from any decay. We will also review with you how to clean and care for your child's teeth at home with them and with you so there's never a question about your cleaning techniques.
First Visit Tips:
- Take your child for an online tour of our office
- Read books with them about going to the dentist
- Review what our dentist will be doing during the visit
- Speak positively about your own dental experiences
Tips for Preventing Cavities in Kids
- Encourage them to brush, floss and rinse regularly
- Watch what they drink
- Help them avoid sticky foods
- Make treats part of regular meals
- Choose nutritious snacks
At around 2 1/2 years old, your child should have all 20 teeth. Between the ages of 5 and 6, the first permanent teeth will begin to erupt. Some of the permanent teeth replace baby teeth and some don't. Every child is different, so don't worry if some teeth are a few months early or late.