Children’s Dentistry – Arlington Heights, IL

Dental Checkups & Teeth Cleanings for Kids

We strive to create a welcoming, positive, and comfortable environment for children to receive their routine checkups and cleanings. We’ll begin by taking X-rays of their mouth to see if there are any issues forming below the surface. Then, we’ll conduct a visual examination of the teeth and gums to make sure that their mouth is developing as it should. After we take care of any lingering issues, we’ll clean their teeth to make sure that their mouth remains cavity-free and healthy!

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Dental Sealants

One of the greatest threats to our younger patients’ smiles are cavities. These are incredibly common in children as they learn how to properly take care of their teeth and gums. If they frequently develop cavities, we may suggest dental sealants. These are clear shields that we paint over the surface of their molars and harden to prevent food debris, plaque, and bacteria from settling in the grooves.

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Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride is a vital mineral that children need to receive enough of in order to allow their protective tooth enamel to fully develop. Without enough, young patients can be more susceptible to dental decay. In this situation, fluoride treatment can be incredibly beneficial. It’s easy; all we do is place a topical fluoride gel on the child’s teeth. It only takes a few minutes, and parents can rest assured that their child will have a reduced risk of cavity development.

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Tooth-Colored Fillings

Children regularly get cavities since they’re still learning how to properly and effectively brush and floss their teeth. To keep decay from progressing into problems that are more serious and preserve their temporary teeth, we can place tooth-colored fillings. This helps protect the vulnerable and sensitive inner portion of their tooth by blocking it off from harmful oral bacteria. Plus, since it’s customized to match the natural shade of their teeth, they don’t have to feel self-conscious.

Athletic Mouthguards

One of the most vital pieces of protective sports gear that your child needs is a mouthguard. Often times, when parents buy one-size-fits-all sportsguards from the store, they notice that their child finds it bulky, uncomfortable, or hard to breathe with in their mouth. With a custom-fitted athletic mouthguard made just for your child, you won’t have to worry about any of these issues, and you can feel confident knowing that their mouth is well-protected.

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When Does Your Child Need to See the Dentist?

Contrary to popular belief, your child needs to see a dentist quite early on; usually around the age of one, or six months after the first tooth appears. Following this initial visit, you should bring your child in for a check-up at least once every six months to monitor the development and health of their teeth.

Toddlers and young children, especially those who have recently started brushing on their own, are particularly susceptible to cavities. If left untreated, these cavities can spread, affecting other adult teeth or even infecting the gums, so it's important to treat them, even if they're in the baby teeth stage.

Regular dental visits also encourage good oral hygiene at a young age. Arlington Heights family dentists spend time with children, teaching them proper brushing and flossing techniques. They can also give parents tips and tricks on how to encourage children to brush, including putting on music, using colored, plaque-detecting mouthwash, and purchasing electronic toothbrushes.

Importance of Compassionate Dental Care

Visiting a dentist’s office can be a very scary thing for a child, especially if the facility doesn’t look child-friendly. Cold and clinical dental offices do seem frightening and can set a child up for a lifetime of dental phobia. Many adults cite early childhood experiences at dental clinics as the main reason they do not seek out dental care when appropriate. You can reduce the risk of this happening with your child by searching for a dentist that puts the comfort of their pediatric patients first.

Finding a compassionate, caring dentist is beneficial to you and your family for numerous reasons. Not only can they put your child at ease, but they are also trained in spotting oral health issues unique to children. For example, a child may not complain of a toothache or experience normal symptoms when developing an oral health issue. A highly trained pediatric specialist knows exactly what signs and symptoms to look for, along with the questions they should ask, to find the source of the dental issue.

Compassionate dental care also encourages your child to practice good oral hygiene. Some children learn better from kind authority figures outside of their family, such as teachers, doctors, and dentists. A child may care more about proper brushing techniques if the reason why they are important is explained in kid-friendly terms. A skilled and experienced dentist knows exactly how to have that conversation in a way that is likely to be well received.

Common Dental Services Required

The most common procedure a child needs to have administered is a routine checkup, including the administration of X-rays and a detailed cleaning. This checkup likely involves multiple dental staff, including the dentist and a hygienist. You can prepare your child for these procedures by discussing the details with them in advance. If you are uncertain about any aspect you think your child may need to know in advance, you should feel free to contact the dental office. A caring staff member is happy to answer your questions, ensuring your child is comfortable.

Children often require sealants and cavity fillings as well. Sealants are a special formula applied to the tooth to reduce the risk of cavities. They are popular among children who have limitations preventing them from being able to practice perfect brushing techniques, or those who have had repeated cavities over the years. Having a cavity filled can be a bit unnerving, which is why you should focus on finding a dental team that knows how to provide your child with the comfort they need during the procedure.

Finally, you should look for a dental office that offers emergency services. Children have dental emergencies all the time. It helps to take them to a place that is familiar for treatment. If that is not possible, you want to be sure that the records of your emergency visit are shared with your regular dentist, and that your emergency dentist has access to your existing health information.

Parents looking for family dental care in Arlington Heights can contact Westgate Dental Care. We have a team of caring and compassionate family dentists eager to help you and your whole family attain excellent oral health. Our dedicated and skilled dental care team can help you and your family with a range of Arlington Heights pediatric dentistry services, including X-rays, fillings, and emergency care. Contact one of our friendly dental office staff members to reserve an appointment with a children’s dentist today.

Children's Dentistry FAQs

If you‘re still curious about children’s dentistry, please contact our kid’s dentist in Arlington Heights to get the answers you need. Our friendly front desk staff will be happy to help in any way they can. At the same time, we know you probably have a busy schedule, which is why we want our patients to have important information readily available. That’s why we’ve included the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about children’s dentistry. Read on to learn more!