Dentistry for Kids Hillsboro ORIt can be easy to think that children do not need to be seen by a dentist if their permanent adult teeth have not grown yet. This could not be further from the truth. Baby teeth are just as important as adult teeth, and it is essential that your children are being seen by our Hillsboro dentist at Hoffman Dental to monitor their dental wellness. It is recommended that children be seen by our dentist within the first year of their life, typically within a few months of their first tooth erupting. These early appointments serve several purposes, one of them being establishing a trusting relationship with the dentist who will take care of their dental wellness needs. Going to the dentist can be overwhelming and frightening. Those first visits will help kids get used to the sights, sounds, and smells of a dental office. An additional benefit of being seen by our dentist every six months is that any concerns can be identified in their early stages. The sooner that potential dental concerns are identified, the sooner a treatment plan can be devised. Our dentist can offer information about preventing unhealthy oral habits, like thumb sucking. Preventative treatments that include fluoride treatments and sealants can also be provided, to protect the dental wellness of their teeth. What to Expect at the DentistVisits to our dentist should not be something that children fear. Helping them to understand what to expect can make a world of difference. Be sure your children are aware that our dentist is there to help them and assist in keeping their teeth healthy and beautiful. During an examination, our dentist will assess the health of their teeth and gums. X-rays may be taken to assess the growth of their teeth and their jaw. During a professional cleaning, any signs of gingivitis can be addressed. Gum disease is often considered to be a concern only adults deal with. The truth is that gum disease can impact just as many children as adults. Sedation Options for KidsChildren can become nervous or agitated while getting treatment. Several sedation options can help to relax them and keep them at ease for the duration of their treatment. Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is one of the most frequently used sedation methods for patients of all ages. This gas is breathed in through a mask placed on the nose. It does not put the patient to sleep but simply helps them to relax so that their treatment can be done. Other safe sedation methods can help to relax children and even make them sleepy. The type of sedation used will depend on the patient and the procedures being done. Orthodontia for ChildrenIt is quite common for children to have misalignment concerns. Monitoring their growth and dental health can help to determine if and when orthodontic treatment should be considered. Space maintainers, traditional braces, and retainers may be an option for some children. why choose Anthony J Hoffman?Our mission at Hoffman Dental is to create a dental experience that leaves a positive impression on each of our patients. Our dental staff work together to make your visit to our office relaxing and enjoyable. We are committed to promoting the long-term dental health of our patients. Schedule your child's next checkup or professional cleaning with us at Hoffman Dental by calling us at (503) 648-7700. It is never too soon to begin a lifetime of good dental health. |