At Family Dental Clinic, we believe that there is nothing as beautiful as a child's smile. With proper care at home and with regular visits to our clinic, children can be expected to reach adulthood without experiencing serious dental issues.

The Developing Smile

A baby is born with a set of 20 primary (baby) teeth that are present and developing in the jaw. On average, teeth start to erupt around six months of age. Parents can expect all of the baby teeth to be present by the age of three. Primary teeth generally begin to shed at the age of six in order to make room for the larger permanent (adult) teeth. By the age of 21, all of the 32 adult teeth have generally erupted into their permanent positions.

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay can occur as soon as the teeth appear in the mouth. Contrary to popular belief, baby teeth are very important!

• Baby teeth play an important role in holding space for the permanent teeth
• Baby teeth help your child chew their food,
• Teeth help your child to develop speech and to speak clearly
• Teeth are a factor in determining a child's face shape and form
• Tooth decay on baby teeth can damage the permanent teeth that are developing under the gums
• Tooth decay and tooth aches contribute to missed school time

Primary Teeth: Development and identification chart
(coming soon)

Permanent Teeth: Development and identification chart
(coming soon)

Your Child's First Dental Visit

Dr. Newton and Dr. Clouse recommend EARLY checkups to protect your child's teeth. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Dental Association recommend that your baby see a dentist no later than one year of age.

Your child's first visits are generally short visits meant to orientate the child to the dental office environment. We will examine your child's teeth, discuss how to clean baby's teeth at home, discuss fluoride needs, and talk about risk factors for decay. This appointment is much like a well-child visit with your pediatrician.

You can prepare your child for a positive dental visit by

• Scheduling appointments around your child's sleeping schedule
• Emphasize the excitement of a new situation
• Tell your child about the moving chair, the electric toothbrush, the crunchy toothpaste, and the suction. They ARE interested!
• Emphasize the positive. Each child will progress at different rates. By encouraging them positively, we will be able to maximize productivity at each appointment
• Don't bribe your child to see the dentist, and never use a visit to the dental office as a punishment or threat. Early positive reinforcement can for lifelong positive relationships with the dentist!