Routine Dental Care for Children in Valencia, CA

Helping Your Child Build a Healthy Smile

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children visit the dentist when their first tooth appears or by their first birthday. When you start routine dental care for children early, it gives your child the opportunity to become comfortable with the dental office while allowing potential concerns to be identified before they become more serious. At Valencia Smiles Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, we love being able to provide routine dental care for children that is designed around both patients and their families. Our skilled Drs. Kim and Mulcahey are passionate about helping young patients develop healthy habits and have positive experiences with routine dental care for children. Our practice provides both pediatric dentistry and orthodontic care, which gives families the ability to find both specialties in one convenient Valencia office.
  

Young boy receiving a routine dental examination from a pediatric dental professional at valencia smiles in valencia, ca.

What You Can Expect At A Routine Dental Care For Children Checkup

A dental checkup is an important part of maintaining your child’s oral health. During an appointment, our team will examine your child’s teeth and gums and look for signs of decay, developmental concerns or other potential problems. Depending on your child’s age, dental history and individual needs, their appointment may also include:

  • A professional cleaning to remove plaque and bacteria

  • Dental X-rays when appropriate

  • An examination of the teeth and gums

  • Guidance on brushing and flossing at home

  • Recommendations for maintaining healthy dental habits

Regular visits also give you an opportunity to ask us important questions about your child’s teeth and development and us the ability to answer those questions!

Why Routine Routine Dental Care For Children Are Necessary

Regular dental appointments can help your child maintain healthy teeth and gums while beginning good habits from an early age. Routine visits can:

  • Help prevent problems with your child’s teeth and gums

  • Help our dentists build a relationship with your child, which can make future dental visits more comfortable

  • Support early detection and treatment

  • Teach children the importance of good oral hygiene

  • Give parents an opportunity to ask questions about their child’s oral health

  • Allow minor concerns to be identified before they become more serious

Children’s dental needs naturally change as they grow. Regular appointments allow our team to monitor your child’s oral health and provide you with guidance that is appropriate for their stage of development.

Children’s Oral Hygiene Tips

Helping your child develop a consistent oral hygiene routine at home is one of the best things you can do for their smile. Encourage your child to brush regularly and help them to understand the importance of proper brushing and flossing techniques. Our team will also provide that age-appropriate guidance during dental visits! Some habits that can support your child’s good routine dental care for children include:

Brushing

Help your child establish a consistent brushing routine and make sure they are cleaning all surfaces of their teeth.

Flossing

Once your child’s teeth begin touching, flossing can help clean areas that a toothbrush can’t really reach!

Foods To Avoid

Limiting foods and drinks that are high in sugar can help reduce the risk of tooth decay.

Dental Visits

Keep regular dental appointments so your child’s teeth and gums can be monitored as they grow.

Avoid Juice

Limiting juice and other sugary drinks can help protect your child’s teeth from unnecessary exposure to sugar.

No Bottles In Bed

Avoid putting your child to bed with a bottle, especially when it contains milk, formula or another sugary liquid!

Preparing Your Child To Visit The Dentist

At Valencia Smiles Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, we know that a child’s first experiences can shape how they feel about visiting the dentist in the future. Preparing them for their first visit can actually start at home, by talking positively about their appointment and explaining what they can expect!

Let your child know that Dr. Kim or Dr. Mulcahey will look at their teeth and gums and may take X-rays if needed. You can explain that they will sit in the dental chair while the team helps check their smile.

If your child feels nervous about visiting the dentist, our team will work with you to help make the experience as comfortable as possible. We also offer sedation dentistry when necessary for patients who may benefit from additional support during treatment. 

A Convenient Home In Valencia For Routine Dental Care For Children

With Valencia Smiles Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry being a bi-specialty practice offering both pediatric dentistry and orthodontic care, we’re able to cover your orthodontic needs conveniently and effectively! Having both specialties in one practice can make it easier for families to access the dental services their children may need as they grow.

Whether your child needs a routine dental checkup, help establishing better oral hygiene habits or treatment for a specific dental care concern, our team is here to help you!

FAQs About Your Child’s Routine Dental Care

At Valencia Smiles Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, we always want you to feel informed about your child’s oral health. We have prepared answers to your most frequently asked questions about pediatric dental care.

When should my child first visit the dentist?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children go to their first dental visit when their first tooth appears or by their first birthday. When you start routine dental care for children at an early age, it can help to establish healthy habits and allow for any potential concerns to be identified sooner.

The appointment usually includes an examination of your child’s teeth and gums, a cleaning and age-appropriate guidance about brushing and flossing. X-rays may also be given depending on your child’s age and individual circumstances!

It is common for children to feel nervous about new experiences–especially visiting the dentist! Talking positively about the dental visit and explaining what will happen can be really helpful before your visit. Our team will also work with you and your child to make the experience as comfortable as possible. Sedation dentistry may be an option when appropriate.

Yes. Valencia Smiles Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry provides routine dental care for children with special needs. If your child has any specific needs or concerns, let our team know when scheduling so we can discuss how we can best support your child to ensure they are comfortable!

Request A Pediatric Dentistry Appointment

Your child deserves a dental home where their developing smile can be cared for with patience and attention. At Valencia Smiles Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, our team is looking forward to getting to know your family and helping your child maintain a healthy smile as they grow.

We are dedicated to providing a safe dental home for our patients, and are looking forward to serving you and your family. Our team cannot wait to meet you! Fill out our online form to request a pediatric dentistry appointment. You may also call or text us at (661) 294-1800 to schedule an appointment in Valencia, CA.

One Office for Growing Smiles in Valencia, CA

From a child’s first dental visits to braces, Invisalign® and adult orthodontic treatment, Valencia Smiles Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry is here to support your family through every stage of the smile. Experience personalized pediatric dental and orthodontic care in a comfortable, family-focused office in Valencia, CA.