Pediatric Dentistry in London, Ontario
HEALTHY SMILES BEGIN EARLY
Caring for Growing Smiles
Your child's first baby teeth usually begin to appear between six and twelve months of age and continue erupting until around three years old. During this stage, sore or tender gums are common. Gently rubbing your child's gums with a clean finger or cool, damp cloth, or using a teething ring, may help provide comfort.
As new teeth erupt, it is important to examine them regularly for any signs of discoloration or early decay. Sugary foods and drinks can increase the risk of cavities, so establishing good oral hygiene habits early is essential. Parents should begin brushing as soon as the first tooth appears using a soft bristled toothbrush. For children younger than two years of age, fluoride toothpaste should only be used if recommended by your dentist or healthcare provider. As your child grows, our team will also provide guidance on when to introduce flossing and other preventive oral hygiene practices.
Your Child's First Dental Visit
A child's first dental visit should be a positive and enjoyable experience. Children are not born with a fear of the dentist, but unfamiliar surroundings can sometimes make them feel uncertain. At Westmount Dental Office, our team takes the time to create a welcoming environment by using friendly, age appropriate language and helping children feel comfortable throughout their visit.
We recommend scheduling your child's first dental appointment by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting. Early visits allow our team to monitor oral development, provide guidance on home care, and help establish healthy dental habits from the very beginning.
Preventing Cavities Through Preventive Care
Good oral health begins with consistent preventive care at home and regular dental visits. Tooth decay develops when sugars remain on the teeth and are converted into acids that gradually weaken tooth enamel. Because children are more susceptible to cavities, regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental care are important for maintaining healthy smiles.
We recommend routine dental examinations and professional cleanings every six months to monitor your child's oral development and identify concerns early. Depending on your child's individual needs, fluoride treatments may be recommended to strengthen enamel, while dental sealants can help protect the deep grooves of permanent molars from developing cavities. Preventive Care May Include
Routine Dental Checkups
Professional Dental Cleanings
Fluoride Treatments
Dental Sealants
Frequently Asked Questions
When should my child first visit the dentist?
We recommend scheduling your child's first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth appears. Early dental visits allow us to monitor oral development, provide preventive care, and help your child become comfortable visiting the dental clinic from an early age.
How often should my child visit the dentist?
Most children should visit the dentist every six months for routine examinations and professional cleanings. Regular visits help monitor tooth development, identify concerns early, and provide preventive treatments such as fluoride applications or dental sealants when appropriate.
When should my child start brushing their teeth?
Parents should begin brushing their child's teeth as soon as the first tooth erupts. A soft bristled toothbrush should be used, and children should be supervised until they are able to brush effectively on their own. Our team will also recommend when it is appropriate to begin flossing as your child's teeth continue to develop.
What are dental sealants and fluoride treatments?
Dental sealants are thin protective coatings placed on the chewing surfaces of back teeth to help prevent cavities. Fluoride treatments strengthen tooth enamel and help reduce the risk of decay. Together, these preventive treatments help protect children's teeth as they grow and are often recommended during routine dental visits.
