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.
Sealants and Flouride
For older children, we will recommend dental sealants and fluoride treatment. We apply dental sealants to the back molars, which are prone to tooth decay.
Sealants are thin plastic coatings that cover the chewing surfaces of the teeth. They essentially “seal” out tooth decay. Fluoride treatments use a gel applied to the teeth for several minutes. This treatment helps strengthen the tooth enamel and protect the teeth from bacteria that cause cavities.
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
We will answer some frequently asked questions about family and pediatric dentistry.
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.
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.