Pediatric Dentist

Pediatric Dentist

Pediatric Dentist. At Martin Dental & Associates, we strive to provide grade-A dental care for families in the Greater St. Louis area. Because of school, work, and other scheduling conflicts, our offices make it as simple as possible to ensure that your child has access to the best dental hygiene possible. Contact our offices now or call us at (314) 739-1222 for our Maryland Heights location or (573) 764-2425 for our Gerald location to schedule a pediatric dentist appointment for your child.

At Martin Dental & Associates, we strive to make sure your entire family is taken care of for years to come. Our team is equipped to create a welcoming, efficient environment that is friendly for the whole family.

Pediatric Dentists Near You | Martin Dental & Associates

Why are pediatric dentists essential? Despite baby teeth being temporary, oral health plays a crucial role in a child's oral health journey. Pediatric dentistry covers a wide age range, from infancy to late teens or even adulthood, ensuring comprehensive care. Healthy baby teeth are vital as they lay the foundation for strong, properly aligned permanent teeth. Since children rely on a mix of baby and adult teeth for several years, maintaining their baby teeth is crucial to prevent discomfort and ensure proper oral functions like biting, chewing, and speaking.

Services include the following:

Top Tips for Pediatric Oral Healthcare

Ready to control your dental future? Here are a few tips for pediatric healthcare to keep in mind:

1. Start Early: Begin dental care early by gently cleaning your baby's gums with a soft, damp cloth after feedings. As soon as the first tooth appears, start brushing with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste.
2. Regular Dental Check-ups: Schedule regular dental check-ups for your child, starting around their first birthday or when the first tooth erupts. Early dental visits help monitor oral health and establish a positive relationship with the dentist.
3. Proper Brushing Technique: Teach your child proper brushing technique, including brushing twice a day for two minutes each time. Use fluoride toothpaste and supervise brushing until your child can effectively brush on their own, usually around age 6 or 7.
4. Healthy Eating Habits: Encourage a balanced diet low in sugary snacks and beverages to prevent tooth decay. Limit sugary treats and offer healthier alternatives like fruits, vegetables, and cheese.
5. Use of Fluoride: Ensure your child receives adequate fluoride for strong, healthy teeth. This can be through fluoride toothpaste, fluoridated water, or fluoride supplements if recommended by your dentist.
6. Flossing: Teach your child to floss once a day to remove plaque and food particles from between teeth and along the gumline. Start flossing as soon as two teeth touch each other.
7. Mouthguards: If your child plays sports or participates in activities with a risk of mouth injuries, consider using a mouthguard to protect their teeth and gums from trauma.
8. Lead by Example: Set a good example by practicing good oral hygiene habits yourself. Children are more likely to adopt healthy habits when they see their parents or caregivers doing the same.
9. Address Dental Concerns: Address any dental concerns promptly, including toothaches, cavities, or signs of orthodontic issues. Early intervention can prevent problems from worsening and ensure proper good dental habits.
10. Positive Reinforcement: Praise your child for practicing good dental habits and makes dental care a positive experience. Use rewards or incentives to encourage regular brushing and flossing.

What Makes a Good Pediatric Dentist? | Martin Dental & Associates

Research shows that more than 35 percent of the U.S. population fears dental work--this doesn't have to be the case. Don't wait to reach out to Martin & Associates for pediatric care in the Greater St. Louis, region. Here are a few ways we help our patients:

1. Specialized Training: A pediatric dentist undergoes additional training beyond dental school to specialize in treating infants, children, and adolescents. This specialized training equips them with the knowledge and skills to address the unique needs of young patients.
2. Child-Friendly Approach: A good pediatric dentist creates a welcoming and child-friendly environment in their office. This includes colorful décor, toys, books, and other amenities that help children feel comfortable and relaxed during their dental visits.
3. Patience and Empathy: Pediatric dentists understand that children may feel anxious or scared during dental appointments. They demonstrate patience, empathy, and compassion to help children feel at ease and build trust with them.
4. Effective Communication: A pediatric dentist communicates effectively with both children and their parents or caregivers. They use age-appropriate language to explain dental procedures and oral hygiene practices in a way that children can understand.
5. Gentle Technique: Pediatric dentists use a gentle and reassuring approach when providing dental care to children. They minimize discomfort and anxiety by employing techniques that prioritize the child's comfort and well-being.
6. Preventive Care Focus: Good pediatric dentists emphasize the importance of preventive dental care, including regular check-ups, cleanings, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants. They educate parents and children about proper oral hygiene practices to prevent dental issues.
7. Flexibility and Adaptability: Pediatric dentists understand that each child is unique and may require different approaches to dental care. They demonstrate flexibility and adaptability in their treatment methods to accommodate the individual needs and preferences of each child.
8. Positive Reinforcement: Pediatric dentists use positive reinforcement techniques, such as praise, encouragement, and rewards, to motivate children to maintain good oral hygiene habits and overcome dental fears.
9. Comprehensive Care: A good pediatric dentist offers comprehensive dental services tailored to children's needs, including routine exams, preventive care, restorative treatments, and specialized services like interceptive orthodontics.
10. Continuing Education: Pediatric dentists stay updated on the latest advancements and best practices in pediatric dentistry through continuing education and professional development. This ensures that they provide high-quality care using the most effective techniques and technologies available.

What to Expect With Your Child's First Visit to the Dentist's Office

It's important during the first visit to help kids feel comfortable within the office environment. Following a comprehensive exam to ensure their primary teeth are healthy and developing well, we'll administer a professional fluoride treatment. If your child remains comfortable, we'll introduce them to other engaging aspects of the visit. At St. Louis Pediatric Dentistry®, we maintain an Open Door Policy, welcoming parents to accompany their child during appointments. To ensure a positive experience and avoid confusion for your child, we request that parents participate as silent supporters. We strive to make your child's first visit enjoyable and interactive, fostering curiosity and providing entertainment such as TVs, tablets, and toys to make appointments something they eagerly anticipate.

Don't hesitate to reach out to our pediatric dentists at (314) 739-1222 for our Maryland Heights location or (573) 764-2425 for our Gerald location or to contact us online.