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, 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.
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 (erupting at six to 12 months of age) receive proper dental care and benefit from proper oral hygiene habits right from the beginning.
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When new teeth arrive
Your child’s first primary, or “baby,” teeth will begin to erupt between the ages of six to 12 months, and will continue to erupt until about age three. During this time, your child’s gums may feel tender and sore. To help alleviate this discomfort, we recommend that 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.
Your child’s primary teeth are shed at various times throughout childhood. Permanent teeth begin erupting at age six, and continue until age 21. Adults have 28 permanent teeth (32, teeth including wisdom teeth).
Adopting healthy oral hygiene habits
As your child’s teeth erupt, be sure to examine them every two weeks, looking for lines and discoloration that may be caused by decay. Remember that 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 two times a day for optimal oral hygiene.
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 the tooth 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 dentist will discuss with you the right time to start flossing your child’s teeth. If you notice signs of decay, contact your dentist immediately.
Preventing tooth decay with regular checkups
Tooth decay is caused by sugars left in your mouth that turn into an acid, which 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. We recommend fluoride treatments twice a year along with cleanings 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 will be monitored at your child’s regular checkups.
Trusted Children's Dentistry Cary, IL for Happy, Healthy Smiles
At Crystal Lake Pediatric Dental, we are proud to serve families in Cary, IL with compassionate, expert care in children's dentistry Cary, IL. Our experienced team of pediatric dentists focuses on creating a safe and welcoming environment that helps kids feel at ease during every visit. As a trusted children's dentist, we understand the unique needs of young patients and offer tailored services that promote lifelong oral health. Whether it’s a first dental exam, preventive care, or treatment for dental concerns, we make each experience comfortable and stress-free.
We specialize in comprehensive services designed exclusively for kids, from toddlers to teens. With advanced technology and a gentle touch, our dentists ensure your child receives the highest standard of care. Families across the area choose us for quality children's dentistry thanks to our dedication to early intervention, education, and fun visits. If you're searching for trusted pediatric dentists, look no further. Call us today at (815) 356-7960 to schedule your child’s appointment and experience top-tier care from a leading children's dentist in Cary, IL.
The Perks of Choosing Pediatric Dentists in Cary IL
Looking for a dental team that truly gets kids? At Crystal Lake Pediatric Dental, our mission is to make every visit a fun, stress-free experience for kids and parents alike. Here’s why so many families trust our expert pediatric dentists in Cary IL, to care for their little ones’ smiles:
Specialized Care, Just for Kids: Our board-certified pediatric dentists in Cary IL, are more than just tooth doctors; they’re smile superheroes trained to care for children from their very first tooth through their teen years. We know how to speak your child’s language and make dental care feel like second nature.
A Dental Office Kids Enjoy: Forget cold, clinical spaces. Our office is bright, cheerful, and designed with kids in mind. From the friendly faces that greet you to the fun touches throughout the space, our pediatric dentists in Cary IL, have created an environment that makes kids excited to come back.
Personalized Prevention from Day One: Healthy habits start early, and we’re here to guide every step. Whether it’s a toddler’s first visit or a teen’s routine checkup, our pediatric dentists in Cary IL, tailor care plans to fit your child’s needs at every age and stage.
Gentle, Modern Techniques: Nervous about dental work? Don’t be. We use the latest technology and gentle techniques to keep visits smooth and pain-free. Our pediatric dentists in Cary IL, are known for their calming touch and reassuring approach.
Support for Parents, too: We’re not just here for your child—we’re here for you, too. Our pediatric dentists in Cary IL, offer helpful tips, clear communication, and guidance on everything from brushing routines to nutrition and thumb-sucking habits.