Choosing Children’s Dentistry Makes All the Difference

When it comes to choosing a dentist for your child or teen, consider a dentist that not only has experience treating this particular age group but one who is passionate about children’s dentistry. Choosing a dentist with children’s dentistry experience–instead of one right out of school–can make a real difference! Learn all the ways a children’s dentist can help you and yours feel more at home.

More Experience Treating Children

Dr. Botero has been working in her field for eleven years and has two different dental degrees from two different countries. (On top of that, she is bilingual AND also a registered certified dental hygienist.) Eight of those eleven years were treating children, so she has much more experience than your average dentist.

Children Have Unique Needs

Because children have unique needs, they need unique skills. For instance, children’s teeth are more susceptible to cavities, and losing teeth seen as part of their growing process. Also, children behave differently than adults. Children’s dentists have diverse and specific experience communicating with children, decoding their emotions, and easing their fears.

Children’s Dentistry Takes Time Nurture and Educate

Children’s dentistry requires extra planning so that children know they are in a safe dental home.  For instance, Dr. Cat’s team uses smaller dental equipment than general dentists would to ensure the comfort of each child.

The friendly, patient staff at Li’l Sunshine Smiles also takes the time to introduce each piece of equipment letting little hands touch and understand. As a result, your child will know exactly what tool is being used and why.

We work to eliminate  fear of the unknown by involving children in the process of care. We do this slowly and gently so that each child never feels overwhelmed, but instead feels enlightened and prepared.

We Take the Time to Address Habit and Preventive Care

Children’s dentistry understands the importance of helping children make good habits and break the not so good ones.  A children’s dentist takes the time to teach proper brushing of teeth (again and again) so that kids understand.

Likewise,  we provide fun toothbrushes and toothpaste, and help parents create plans to encourage their children to take care of their teeth.

Children’s dentists are also prepared to provide treatments for children that prevent cavities and early childhood tooth decay. Such as: sealants, fluoride treatments, space maintainers, and more.

Furthermore, to help with establish a successful preventive care plan, make an appointment with Dr. Cat early. The American Dental Association advises that the first dental exam begin before your child’s first birthday or when the first tooth bud emerges.

We Have More Experience with Infant Dental Exams – And They’re Free

At our office, we offer free infant dental exams because good oral hygiene starts off at a very early age. Good infant oral health leads to better child and adult oral health.

Infant dental exams are quick and easy for both parents and infants.  At the first few visits, infants remain in their parent’s arms while they have their mouth examined by the Dr. Cat. This infant dental exam is done in what’s called a “knee-to-knee” position with Dr. Cat and the parent to help the infant feel secure and safe.

During an infant dental exam, Dr. Cat will look for tooth decay and show you how to properly clean and care for the infant’s mouth (and teeth if any are present).

We Make Our Dental Home Fun!

An office that treats children is designed with children in mind.  Our team has worked to create a fun, happy home for each of our visiting patients.

We have fun games and things to explore that you just wouldn’t see at a general dentist office. Everything from the waiting room to the dental chair is designed to engage and brighten children.

Whether your child is visiting the dentist for the first time or a checkup, we ensure there is a fun and friendly environment waiting.  Kids can watch TV while they wait for their appointment or if they prefer, they can show their artistic skills while drawing at our art table in the waiting room.

Our goal is to help children get excited about their next dental visit!

When your child is a patient at Li’l Sunshine Smiles, our entire focus is on your children. Patients of Li’l Sunshine Smiles become a part of our dental family and enters a safe environment devoted to excellent oral hygiene habits and healthy attitudes towards dental visits/health.

Call 813-576-0200 today to make an appointment!