Our dental office provides family dentistry to patients of all ages in Wayne, PA. Family dentistry is a part of general dental care, as regular care in our office helps prevent common dental problems.
From pediatric to geriatric care, our dental solutions target the needs and goals of each of our patients. No matter your age, oral health care is important. Regularly visiting the dentist keeps your oral health and overall health in check.
Your Child’s First Dental Visit
We recommend that parents bring their children for their first dentist visit after their first baby tooth erupts. Prior to their first visit, discuss the dentist with your child. Talk to your child about how visiting the dentist is exciting, and how they will meet new people.
We want our younger patients especially to feel comfortable when they visit the dentist. Creating a positive experience at the dentist helps alleviate dental fear and anxiety. During your child’s first appointment, our dental hygienists will inspect your child’s smile and may provide a cleaning. They will also help you learn the best methods for caring for their oral health at home.
Dental Sealants and Fluoride Treatments
Sealants and fluoride are essential components of family dentistry. These treatments play a pivotal role in preventing dental issues and maintaining good dental health. We often recommend dental sealants and fluoride treatment for older children.
- Sealants: Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings that your Wayne, PA, dentist will apply to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. These plastic coatings help to seal out tooth decay on the molars, where cavities often form. These sealants act a barrier to prevent bacteria and food debris from settling in the deep grooves and pits of the teeth. By sealing out these harmful elements, sealants reduce the risk of tooth decay, especially in children and adolescents who are more susceptible to cavities.
- Fluoride: Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that strengthens tooth enamel. This mineral makes teeth more resistant to acid attacks and decay. Fluoride treatments use a gel that the dentist applies to the teeth for several minutes. Fluoride helps remineralize weakened enamel, essentially strengthening it to protect teeth from bacteria that cause cavities. A fluoride treatment is particularly beneficial for children and individuals with a higher risk of tooth decay.
Caring for Baby Teeth
Primary or baby teeth act as an important foundation for the smile. This is because they make room in the jaw for adult teeth to develop. Although baby teeth eventually fall out to make room for permanent teeth, they need to be cared for properly. Caring for baby teeth helps adult teeth develop proper nutrition and speech.
Even before their child’s first tooth erupts, parents need to clean their child’s gums. Using a damp washcloth to wipe away food debris from the gums can help keep harmful bacteria at bay. Once the first baby tooth emerges, parents should use an infant-sized toothbrush to brush the tooth.
How to Treat Aging Smiles
Over time, patients can face dental injuries, tooth stains, and even missing teeth as they age. We provide restorative and cosmetic dental treatments to help patients repair and renew their smiles. For patients with one or more missing teeth, we recommend dental implants, dental bridges, or dentures.
Porcelain veneers, tooth bonding treatment, and dental crowns cover areas of tooth damage or discoloration and may be used to strengthen weakened teeth. Additionally, patients can remove years of tooth stains with our take-home professional teeth whitening treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Dentistry
We will answer some frequently asked questions about family and pediatric dentistry. We hope to help gain more knowledge about this type of dental care so you can make the decisions for you and your family.
Why should I choose a family dentist for my entire household?
Choosing a family dentist for your household is beneficial as they cater to patients of all ages, from children to adults. They provide a comfortable and familiar environment, ensuring everyone’s dental needs are met. Family dentists offer many services, from check-ups and cleanings to specialized treatments, making it convenient for your whole family to maintain optimal oral health.
At what age should children start seeing a family dentist?
Children should start seeing a family dentist as early as their first birthday or when their first tooth appears. Early dental visits are vital for long-term dental health. These visits help establish good oral health habits, prevent dental issues, and ensure your child’s smile stays healthy and bright as they grow.
Are dental X-rays safe for children?
Yes, dental X-rays are safe for children. Dentists use the lowest radiation possible and take precautions like using lead aprons and thyroid collars. X-rays help diagnose problems early, which is important for children’s dental health.
Why do family dentists recommend sealants for children?
Family dentists will recommend sealants for children because they protect teeth from cavities. They cover the deep grooves in molars where food and bacteria often stick. This makes brushing more effective and lessens the risk of decay. Applying sealants is quick, painless, and provides long-lasting protection.
What is the difference between a cavity and a filling?
A cavity is a hole in your tooth that comes from decay. It results from bacteria breaking down the tooth enamel. A filling, on the other hand, is a treatment for a cavity. Dentists remove the decay and fill the hole with materials like composite resin or amalgam to restore the tooth.
What is the oldest age at which to see a pediatric dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry advises that children continue to visit a pediatric dentist until they reach 18 years old or graduate from high school. Some may continue to treat young adults with special needs beyond this age. However, once patients outgrow pediatric care, they transition to a general dentist.
What does a dental exam include?
A dental exam includes checking your teeth, gums, and mouth for any issues. The dentist looks for cavities, plaque, and tartar buildup. They also assess your gums for signs of disease and check your bite and jaw. Most dentists will take X-rays to see hidden problems. The exam usually involves professional cleaning by a dental hygienist to remove tartar and polish your teeth.
How can a family dentist support the dental health of aging family members?
A family dentist plays a crucial part in supporting the dental health of aging family members. Your dentist provides complete care, offering regular check-ups, cleanings, and necessary treatments. By addressing their unique oral health needs, such as gum disease or tooth sensitivity, family dentists ensure aging loved ones maintain a healthy smile and overall well-being.
Call Our Dental Office Today
Are you looking for a family dentist in Wayne or Villanova, PA? Request a dental appointment with the dental team at Wayne Family Dentistry online. You can also contact our dental office at 610-347-5133.