Pediatric Dentistry

A child’s first visit to the dentist should be enjoyable. Children are not born with a natural fear of the dentist, but they can fear the unknown. Our office makes a special effort to use pleasant, non-frightening, and simple words to describe each treatment.

We want you and your child to feel at ease from the moment your family arrives at our office. The more you and your child know about the first visit, the better you will feel.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends

Children should visit the dentist by their first birthday. It is important that your child’s newly-erupted teeth (which appear at six to 12 months of age) receive proper dental care and benefit from proper oral hygiene habits right from the beginning.

Getting to know your teeth is fun!

When new teeth arrive

Your child’s primary teeth, also known as “baby” teeth, will begin to erupt between the ages of six to 12 months and will continue to emerge until about age three. During this time, your child’s gums may feel tender and sore. To help alleviate this discomfort, we recommend you soothe the gums by rubbing a clean finger or a cool, wet cloth across them. You may also choose to make use of a teething ring. When your child has finished teething, you can expect a total of 20 primary teeth!

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Your child’s primary teeth are shed at various times throughout childhood. The permanent teeth begin erupting at age six and continue until age 21. Adults have 28 permanent teeth — 32, including wisdom teeth.

Adopting healthy oral hygiene habits

As your child’s teeth erupt, be sure to examine them every two weeks, checking for lines and discoloration that may be caused by decay. Remember, sugary foods and liquids can attack a new tooth, so take care that your child brushes his or her teeth after feeding or eating. We recommend brushing twice a day for optimal oral hygiene: after breakfast and at bedtime.

Brushing can be fun, and your child should brush as soon as the first tooth arrives. When a baby’s tooth erupts, parents should brush it with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. For children younger than two, do not use fluoride toothpaste unless advised to do so by your dentist or other healthcare professional. We suggest reviewing proper tooth brushing procedures with your child.

Flossing is also a part of good oral hygiene habits, and your doctor will discuss with you the right time to start flossing. If you notice signs of decay, contact your dentist immediately.

Prevent tooth decay with regular checkups

Tooth decay is caused by sugars that are left in your mouth. They turn into an acid that can break down your teeth. Children are at high risk for tooth decay for a simple reason: many children and adolescents do not practice regular, good oral hygiene habits. Proper brushing and flossing routines combined with regular dental visits help keep tooth decay away.

Your child should visit the dentist every six months for regular dental cleanings and checkups. Along with regular cleanings, we recommend fluoride treatments twice a year to keep teeth their strongest. Tooth sealants are also recommended because they “seal” the deep grooves in your child’s teeth, preventing decay from forming in these hard-to-reach areas. Sealants last for several years, but they will be monitored at your regular checkups.

A few other dental services

CLEANINGS & EXAMS

CLEANINGS & EXAMS

Check ups are important to assess dental health & treat problems early.

SEDATION DENTISTRY

SEDATION DENTISTRY

Put your dental anxiety at ease while your teeth are cleaned.

INVISALIGN

INVISALIGN

An easy, comfortable, & clear alternative to traditional metal braces.

COSMETIC DENTISTRY

COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Your smile is one of your most important features!

  • After coming from questionable dental services, Dr. Annie and the staff at Brush seem like a dream! I have been going here for a few years now and I completely trust Brush with my teeth as well as my family and friends'. They are very friendly, patient with questions, and take extra steps to fit their work to your unique needs

    Rachel R. Wallingford Resident
  • I went for my first visit today and everyone was super nice and informative, while willing to take time to listen and answer any questions I had. It was also extremely clean and they had Netflix, which is always a plus since I'm behind on Home of Cards and always forget to watch it.

    Sam A. University District Resident
  • Everyone was friendly and helpful. I got a lot of information and options. I don't have insurance and they were great about letting me know the costs before continuing. I'll be back.

    Bev M.
  • Dr. Jeff is clearly knowledgable and cares for the well-being of his patients. Rochelle was an excellent hygienist, and carried a pleasurable conversation.

    Jorge B.
  • As usual - excellent. And a special thank you to Jessica for getting details on our insurance coverage.

    Kerry D.
  • Jeff & Annie Knutson as well as their staff-- Jessica,Melanie, Ali, Richelle, & Colleen are outstanding. Friendly, accommodating, and always see their patients on time. I have been happy with Jeff and Annie's work!

    Teresa W.
  • Love Brush! Been have been taking care of me for 2 years now... Very organized & helpful!

    Daniel B. University District Resident
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