Pediatric Dentist in Bozeman, MT, just a short drive away from Belgrade & Manhattan, MT
Preventing Tooth decay
Four things are necessary for cavities to form: 1) tooth, 2) bacteria, 3) sugar or other carbohydrates, and 4) time. We can share with you how to make teeth strong, keep bacteria from organizing into harmful colonies, develop healthy eating habits, and understand the role that time plays. Remember dental decay is an infection of the tooth. Visiting us early can help avoid unnecessary cavities and dental treatments.
The pediatric dental community is continually doing research to develop new techniques for preventing dental decay and other forms of oral disease. Studies show that children with poor oral health have decreased school performance, poor social relationships, and less success later in life. Children experiencing pain from decayed teeth are distracted and unable to concentrate on schoolwork.
Importance of primary teeth (Baby Teeth)
It is very important that primary teeth are kept in place until they are lost naturally. These teeth serve a number of critical functions.
• Maintain good nutrition by permitting your child to chew properly
• Involved in speech development
• Help the permanent teeth by saving space for them
A healthy smile can help children feel good about the way they look to others.
Infants and children
Getting an early start in regular dental care is an important step on the road to teaching your child healthy lifelong habits.
We want to share with you the latest available methods for keeping your child healthy and safe.
The first dental visit should occur shortly after the first tooth erupts and no later than the child’s first birthday. Beginning tooth and mouth examinations early may lead to detection of early stages of tooth decay that can be easily treated. At the first visit we will present:
• A program of preventive home care including brushing, flossing, diet and the importance of fluorides.
• A caries risk assessment.
• Information about Early Childhood Caries, which may be due to inappropriate nursing habits or inappropriate use of sippy cups.
• The latest facts about finger, thumb and pacifier habits.
• What you need to know about preventing injuries to the mouth and teeth.
• Information on growth and development.
Dental Care for your Baby
*When should my child first see a dentist?
“First visit by first birthday” sums it up. Your child should visit a pediatric dentist when the first tooth comes in, usually between 6 and 12 months of age. This visit will establish a dental home for your child. Early examination and preventive care will protect your child’s smile now and in the future.
*Why so early? What dental problems could a baby have?
The most important reason is to begin a thorough prevention program. Dental problems can begin early. A big concern is Early Childhood Caries (formerly known as baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries). Once a child’s diet includes anything besides breast-milk, erupted teeth are at risk for decay. The earlier the first dental visit, the better the chance of preventing dental problems.
Adolescents have special needs. Appearance and self-image are very important to them. Decayed or poorly positioned teeth or jaws might make them more self-conscious. Teens also eat frequently, and unhealthy snack foods tend to become a major part of their regular diet. We provide a professional, sensitive and caring approach to restoring and guiding teeth, and teaching preventive dental health care through the teen’s high school
years. When necessary, we will provide information on sealants, oral piercing, wisdom teeth, missing teeth, and tobacco use.
Young people with special needs
An integral part of our education is concerned with the medical and dental health of the special patient. People with significant medical, physical, or mental disabilities often present challenges to dentists. Our training allows us to address their special needs and provide the best care possible.
Team approach to Total health
Good oral health is an important part of total health. When helping children, we often work with pediatricians, other physicians and dental specialists. All young people are served best through this team approach. We, the pediatric dentists, are an important part of your child’s health team.