It is vital that children receive high-quality dental care from the time they’re very young. With the help of a skilled dental professional and diligent parents, they can establish good habits and prevent problems that might otherwise hinder their overall well-being. I’m proud to serve as your kid’s dentist in Camp Hill, and I would be pleased to help you set your little ones up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Get Your Child Off to a Good Start
The American Dental Association recommends that children have their first dental appointment before their first birthday, or within six months after their first tooth appears. When your little one comes to see me for the first time, I’ll take a look at their tooth (or teeth) and give you advice on how best to care for your baby’s new smile at home.
Bringing your child to the dentist at a very early age has the added benefit of getting them used to these appointments. They’ll be less likely to experience dental anxiety as they grow up and gain a greater appreciation for oral healthcare.
Preventing Problems Before They Begin
Dental caries (cavities) are extremely common in children — in fact, according to some estimates, they are the single most common childhood disease. That is why I am such an ardent advocate of preventive care for young ones. I may recommend one or more of the following treatments to protect your child’s smile from decay:
- Dental sealants. During this procedure, I place a thin plastic coating on the chewing surfaces of your child’s permanent molars. This helps to prevent food from getting caught there and leading to decay.
- PRRs, or preventive resin restorations, are similar to sealants in that they help to stop cavities. However, PRRs are made of the same material as regular dental fillings. They tend to last much longer than typical plastic sealants.
- Fluoride treatments. Fluoride is a mineral that helps to build and strengthen teeth. If your family does not drink fluoridated tap water, or if your child is at a high risk of tooth decay, I may recommend either topical fluoride or ingestible fluoride supplements for them.
The Human Element
I have three kids of my own, so I have a special place in my heart for little ones. As your children’s dentist in Camp Hill, I always strive to help even my youngest patients feel at ease in my practice. Whether they need some restorative work or they’re just coming in for a checkup, my staff and I will go out of our way to make them feel like they’re VIPs. We can even use nitrous oxide sedation to help kids who are anxious about their treatment.
I truly enjoy working with parents to protect their children from painful dental problems. Hopefully, we can team up to help your little one obtain a smile that is as healthy as it is adorable.
About the Author
Dr. Rina Singh is one of the top dentists in our area, and she is passionate about helping whole families to achieve healthy smiles. She has nearly 20 years of experience behind her and looks forward to many more. To learn more about Dr. Singh or to schedule an appointment, contact our office at 717-761-0283.