Children’s dentistry

When should a child first see the dentist?

The Canadian Dental Association recommends a first visit within six months of the first tooth appearing, or by the first birthday. Early visits are mostly about getting comfortable: a look in the mouth, a ride in the chair, and advice for parents on teething, feeding and brushing. Problems found this early are almost always easy to manage.

How we help children feel at ease

• We explain what we are doing in words a child understands, and show instruments before using them
• Parents are welcome in the room
• Dr. Fadavi makes a point of connecting with younger patients through their interests, so the visit is about them, not just their teeth
• We never rush a nervous child; a shorter visit that ends well is better than a long one that does not

What we provide for children

• Examinations, cleaning and fluoride
• Sealants to protect the grooves of new adult molars
• Fillings for baby and adult teeth, under gentle freezing
• Advice on thumb-sucking, teeth grinding and mouth breathing
• Custom sport guards for hockey, soccer and other sports
• An early look at how the adult teeth are coming in, and a referral to an orthodontist if that is the right next step

Baby teeth matter

Baby teeth hold space for the adult teeth, help with speech and chewing, and can become painfully infected if decay is left. Treating decay in a baby tooth is not “a waste”: it protects the adult tooth underneath and spares your child pain.

For parents

• Brush your child’s teeth twice a day until they can do it well themselves (usually around age 7 to 8), then supervise
• Avoid putting a child to bed with a bottle of milk or juice
• Water is the ideal drink between meals