Infant - Toddler - Preschooler - Teen -- Pediatric Dentistry

Patients

INFANT (Newborn - 2 Yrs Old)

Start your baby's dental health journey on the right foot! Our practice is committed to guiding new parents through the first critical stages of dental care, from caring for gums to that first tooth.

Routine and Preventative Care Treatment

We offer a full spectrum of routine and preventative treatments designed to set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

- Caring for Gums: Even before teeth arrive, gum care is essential. We recommend spiffy baby tooth wipes to help maintain good oral hygiene from day one.
- Baby’s First Tooth: A milestone worth celebrating! We advise parents to start brushing with a small smear of toothpaste as soon as that first tooth comes in.
- Avoiding Cavities: We provide a "Good Snacks vs Bad Snacks" handout to guide your food choices and help prevent cavities.
- First Visit to the Dentist: Your child's first dental visit should occur by age 1 or when the first tooth erupts. This sets the stage for a lifetime of good oral health.

Setting a Good Example: Children learn by example, and good oral hygiene is no exception. We'll guide you on how to be the best role model for your child.

Early Check Ups

Regular dental check-ups should start by age 1 or when the first tooth appears to help catch any potential issues early on.

What to Expect

From your first visit onward, our practice aims to provide a comfortable, educational, and enriching experience for your child. We work at the pace of the child; if they are not ready to ride in the chair, that’s okay! We understand that each child is unique and we never want to make them uncomfortable.

Oral Health

We abide by the guidelines set forth by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry to ensure optimal oral health for your child.

- - When New Teeth Arrive: Teething can be challenging, but we have some creative solutions. We recommend a frozen chamomile tea-dipped wash rag or a frozen mango pit to soothe sore gums.
  - Cavity Prevention: Our strategies go beyond regular cleanings; we aim to educate you and your child on effective ways to keep decay at bay.
  - Behavior, Development, Nutrition, and Well-Baby Care: Good dental health is about more than just teeth. It encompasses behavioral aspects, developmental milestones, and overall well-being. We offer comprehensive advice and care in these areas to ensure that your child is set up for long-term health.

TODDLER-PRESCHOOLER

Toddler (2-3 Yrs)

The toddler years are critical in establishing good oral health habits. Our friendly team ensures a comfortable experience, focusing on preventative and routine care tailored for toddlers.

Preschooler (3-5 Yrs)

As your child grows, so do their dental needs. We offer specialized treatments that factor in the rapid developmental changes occurring during these years.

Routine Care Treatment

Consistent check-ups and cleanings lay the foundation for a bright smile. We emphasize age-appropriate care to help your child adapt to a regular oral hygiene routine.

Preventative Care Treatment

Our preventative approach includes routine dental cleanings and fluoride treatments designed to protect your child's teeth from decay before it starts.

Restorative Care Treatment

From filling cavities to treating dental injuries, our restorative treatments are designed with your young one’s comfort and health in mind.

Oral Health

We follow the latest pediatric guidelines to keep your child's oral health on track, including advice on thumb-sucking and the use of pacifiers.

Adopting Healthy Oral Hygiene Habits: We offer interactive sessions to help your child understand the importance of brushing, flossing, and maintaining good oral hygiene.

Preventing Tooth Decay with Regular Checkups: Regular dental visits are crucial in early detection and prevention of tooth decay. Our team focuses on thorough exams and patient education.

Cavity Prevention: Help Keep Decay Away: We arm you and your child with the right tools and knowledge to keep cavities at bay, from toothpaste selection to correct brushing techniques.

- The Guide to a PreSchooler’s/Kindergartener’s Diet: Diet plays a vital role in oral health. We provide guides that cover dietary choices beneficial for growing teeth and gums.

Behavior, Development, Nutrition, and Well-Child Care: The overall well-being of your child is our priority. We offer well-child check-ups and guidance on nutrition, behavior, and developmental milestones in relation to oral health.

At Hendricks Pediatric Dentistry, we consider it a privilege to be part of your child's growth and development. Our comprehensive approach aims to provide a safe and nurturing environment where your child can build a positive relationship with dental care.

SCHOOL-AGE (6 - 12 Yrs)

Child (6-12 Yrs)

The school-age years are pivotal in maintaining good oral health that will last a lifetime, especially as baby teeth are being sent to the tooth fairy and adult teeth are erupting. Our team focuses on individualized care plans that adapt to your child's growing needs.

Routine Care

With growth spurts and new activities, regular dental check-ups are a must. We offer age-appropriate routine care to monitor changes and address any issues early on.

Preventative Care Treatment

Our preventative services extend from fluoride treatments to customized dental sealants that offer an added layer of protection against cavities and decay.

Restorative Care Treatment

Whether it's fillings, crowns, or more, our restorative treatments are done with utmost care to ensure your child's comfort and dental health.

Aesthetics

Should your child require orthodontic care, we provide trusted referrals to local orthodontists, ensuring a seamless transition and continuity in excellent care.

Oral Health

We offer comprehensive advice on maintaining oral hygiene, covering everything from the right toothpaste to correct brushing and flossing techniques.

- Cavity Prevention: We place great emphasis on education and practical tips that empower your child to be an active participant in preventing cavities.
- The Guide to a School-Age Child’s Diet: Nutrition significantly affects oral health. We offer specialized dietary advice to help safeguard your child's teeth and gums during these formative years.
- Nutrition: From snack choices to meal planning, we provide information that directly relates to maintaining a healthy smile and overall well-being.
- Sports & Fitness: For young athletes, we offer advice and options for mouthguards to protect those precious teeth during sports activities.

Well-Child Care: In addition to focusing on oral health, we take a holistic approach by offering well-child care, aligning dental health with overall physical and mental well-being.

TEEN (13 - 18 Yrs)

Pre-Teen 10-12 Yrs

Navigating the pre-teen years can be a challenge, but dental care shouldn't be. Our team offers specialized routine and preventative care aimed at this transitional age group.

- Routine Care: Routine dental visits are crucial for tracking oral development, identifying any issues early, and providing a roadmap for future care.
- Preventative Care Treatment: Preventative care at this stage includes sealants and fluoride treatments that target the unique needs of your growing child.
- Restorative Care Treatment: For any dental issues requiring immediate attention, we offer gentle and effective restorative treatments designed with pre-teens in mind.
- Oral Care: Our guidance on oral care routines is tailored to the needs and challenges that pre-teens face, including discussions about braces, if applicable.

Guide to Healthy Habits: We equip your child with the knowledge they need to maintain good oral health, including dietary advice and proper brushing and flossing techniques.

Teen (13-18) Yrs

The teenage years are vital in establishing long-term oral health habits. Our services are geared to meet the complex dental needs of adolescents.

- Routine Care: Regular dental visits allow us to monitor ongoing changes in your teen's oral health and make necessary adjustments to their care plan.
- Preventative Care Treatment: With a focus on preventing issues before they start, our preventative services include detailed cleanings, fluoride treatments, and more.
- Restorative Care Treatment: Whether it's fillings, crowns, or wisdom teeth referrals, our restorative treatments are specifically tailored for teenagers. If treatment is best managed by an adult dentist, we have a list of trusted providers in the area.
- Aesthetics Care Treatment: For teens concerned about the appearance of their teeth, we offer aesthetic solutions including whitening treatments and referrals for orthodontic care.
- Oral Care: We provide advice that's directly relevant to teenagers, tackling issues like oral piercings, tobacco use, and maintaining oral health during sporting activities.

Behavior & Social Issues: Teenagers face unique social and behavioral challenges, such as self-image and peer pressure, that can impact their oral health. We offer support and guidance to navigate these sensitive issues.

SPECIAL NEEDS

Special Needs Dentistry

At Hendricks Pediatric Dentistry, we believe that every child deserves quality dental care tailored to their unique needs. Our practice specializes in dental care for children with special needs, providing a compassionate and understanding environment.

What is Special Needs Dentistry?

Special needs dentistry is an area of dental care focused on treating children with physical, developmental, or cognitive conditions that require specialized treatment approaches.

Who Requires Special Needs Dental Care?

We offer dental care for children with diverse oral health needs, including:

- Developmental Disorders: Such as Autism, Down Syndrome, and sensory processing disorders.
- Behavioral Disabilities: Including ADHD and oppositional defiant disorder.
- Learning Disabilities: Such as dyslexia or intellectual disabilities.
- Orofacial Defects: Such as cleft lip or cleft palate.

What’s the Importance of Special Needs Dentistry?

Quality dental care is paramount for children with special needs. Without specialized attention, these children are at higher risk for oral health problems that can impact their overall well-being.

- Specialized Care: Our dentists and staff are trained in techniques that make dental procedures less stressful and more comfortable for special needs children.
- A Comfortable Dental Setting: Our office is designed to be welcoming and handicap accessible, reducing anxiety and making visits as pleasant as possible.
- Professional Staff: Our team has the expertise and patience to address the unique challenges that come with special needs dentistry.
- Specialized Equipment: We utilize the latest dental technology and specialized equipment to ensure the best outcomes for your child.
- Sticker Visits: We understand that just walking into the office or getting into the dental chair can be a challenge for some patients. Therefore, just give us a heads up and you can stop in and allow your child to become more comfortable with the office.

How Do I Get the Best Dental Services for my Special Needs Child?

Choosing the right dental home for a special needs child is crucial. At Hendricks Pediatric Dentistry, we strive to offer a comprehensive and compassionate service that meets the specific needs of each child. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact us.

Your child’s well-being is our highest priority, and we are committed to providing a safe, compassionate, and effective dental care experience for children with special needs.