Pediatric Dentistry Introduction

Why a Pediatric Dentist?

Has your child ever begged you not to leave the dentist? Impossible you say? Not at our office. It could be our gentle touch and special way with kids. Our pediatric specialists and staff love children and are specially trained to put them at ease. We teach your children the proper way to take care of their teeth, but just as important, they learn that going to the dentist can be fun.

What is a Pediatric Dentist?
What is an orthodontist?

In the same way that pediatricians are trained to meet a child's medical needs, our pediatric dental specialists are uniquely qualified to protect your child's oral health, using the most advanced techniques ... and all in our delightfully friendly open treatment area. Doctors Levin, Barney, Hasty and Rosenblum have an additional 2-3 years of training at university pediatric dental facilities in addition to four years of dental school and four years of college study. In addition, Dr. Barney has received additional university training and credentials as an orthodontist. (See Bio section for doctors’ credentials.)

Our pediatric dentists practiced general dentistry before specializing, giving them a unique perspective. Following years of study and “real life” experience, our doctors understand the behavioral aspects of children, and they work hard to make our patients comfortable. This is quite a challenge considering that our patients range in age from newborns to college students! We embrace the challenge. In addition, our doctors and team are trained and qualified to treat special needs patients.

What dental problems could my child have?

Some dental problems begin very early in life. One concern is baby bottle tooth decay (Nursing Bottle Decay), a serious condition caused by a child staying on the bottle (or breast) too long. Another problem is gum disease. About 40 percent of children 2-3 years old have at least mild inflammation of gum tissues.

Oral habits (such as thumb-sucking) should also be checked. The earlier the dental visit, the better the chances of preventing problems. Strong, healthy teeth help your child chew food easily, speak clearly and feel good about his or her appearance.

Why are baby teeth so important?

Primary teeth are important because they help with proper chewing and eating, aid in speech development and add to an attractive appearance. A child who can chew easily, speak clearly and smile confidently is a happier child. Healthy primary teeth allow normal development of the jaw bones and muscles, save space for the permanent teeth and guide them into place.

If a baby tooth is lost too soon, permanent teeth may come in crooked. Decayed baby teeth can cause pain, abscesses, infections, and can spread to the permanent teeth. Also, your child's general health can be affected if diseased baby teeth aren't treated. Remember, some primary molars are not replaced until age 10-14, so they must last for years.

What should I tell my child about the first dental visit?

We are asked this question many times. We suggest you prepare your child the same way that you would before their first day of school. This will not be the frightening experience you may remember from your youth. If you are nervous about the trip, then the less you say the better. You cannot hide your anxiety from a child (they have radar for these things).

Your explanations should be simple and straightforward, using words your child can understand. Have fun going through it with your child. Your child's reaction to his first visit to the dentist may surprise you.

Please read our Treatment Philosophy