Dentistry for Children Salem OR At Oak Park Dental, we enjoy providing our services to every member of the family. Scheduling regular checkups and professional cleanings for your child is one of the most important things you can do for their oral health. Establishing a strong foundation for their oral health can lead to a lifetime of healthy and beautiful teeth.Good Oral Hygiene for KidsGood oral hygiene for children begins as early as infancy. You should schedule their first appointment with us by their first birthday or by the time their first tooth erupts. Before any teeth erupt, you should incorporate some type of oral hygiene regimen. We usually recommend wiping down their gums with a soft, wet washcloth or gauze, especially after feeding.After their teeth begin to erupt, you should purchase the appropriate toothbrush. The right toothbrush size will help you properly clean their teeth. There are brushes specifically designed for infants that have a smaller tip for their tiny teeth. The goal is to remove plaque buildup and food debris to prevent cavities and periodontal disease. Your Child’s First VisitYour child’s first dental appointment is typically short and involves little to no treatment. During the appointment, we will check all of your child’s existing teeth for any decay. We will also look for any potential problems with the gum tissues, jaw, oral tissues, and bite.We may also have our dental hygienist perform a quick cleaning and assess the need for fluoride treatment. If we notice any signs of decay, it could mean your child is more susceptible to cavities. If this is the cases, we may recommend a stricter oral hygiene regimen and more frequent appointments. Depending on your child’s temperament, you may be asked to hold them during the exam or wait in the reception area. It is important to build a strong relationship between your child and Dan O'Leary DDS. We want your child to feel comfortable and happy when visiting our office. Professional TipsDuring the appointment, we will also educate you on the oral health care basics for children. Be sure to ask any question and voice any concerns. Proper education is just as important as the regimen itself. As your child continues to grow, you can pass this information on to them.We may also address diet and eating habits. Be sure to limit their exposure to sugary snacks and foods high in simple carbohydrates. The bacteria found in dental plaque love to feed off these types of foods. As they feed, they will produce acids that eat away at the enamel and cause tooth decay. If you are dealing with an infant, never put them to bed with a bottle that contains anything other than water. This can lead to a condition known as baby bottle tooth decay, which destroys the primary teeth. These teeth are just as important as the permanent ones. They act as placeholders, and the future of your child’s oral health depends on them. If one is lost prematurely, we may recommend a spacer to keep the others from drifting out of place. Schedule Your Child’s AppointmentDo not neglect your child’s oral health! Call (971) 600-0211 to schedule their appointment today! |
Serving Salem Keizer Community since 1987
We provide dental services for the entire family from children to older adults. Our entire team of caring Doctors, hygienists and support staff pride ourselves on a high level of patient care.
Using the latest in modern dental technology our services range from sealants to complex implant surgery. Our goal is a comfortable experience for our patients with beautiful results. Smile more :-) Call today (971) 600-0211 |
Located in the heart of the beautiful Willamette Valley.
Convenient hours Monday–Friday 7am–5pm 
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