┃How is pediatric dentistry different from general dentistry?

Pediatric dentistry is a specialized branch of dentistry focused on the oral and dental health care needs of infants, toddlers, children and teenagers. Pediatric dentistry requires specialized knowledge and experience in order to provide the necessary care for a child’s teeth, gums and mouth throughout the ongoing development from birth through adolescence. In order to provide pediatric dentistry to the Cy-Fair community, our dentist has completed four years of dental school as well as two years of residency training in dentistry for infants, children, teens, and children with special needs.

Pediatric dentistry is important in order to provide your child with a lifetime of periodontal and dental health. Without proper dental care, children face possible oral decay and disease that can cause a lifetime of pain and complications. Today, early childhood dental caries—an infectious disease—is 5 times more common in children than asthma and 7 times more common than hay fever.

At Kleypas Family Dental in Cypress, TX, our dentist specializes in both pediatric, general and cosmetic dentistry, allowing the entire family to enjoy the personalized care and expertise in one convenient and family-friendly environment.

┃When should my child start visiting the dentist? How often should my child visit the dentist?

According to the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a child’s first visit to the dentist should be when the first tooth erupts in the mouth or no later than age one to two. These first visits to the dentist are intended to accomplish multiple goals: first, introducing a child to the dental experience at a young age is significant for establishing healthy oral hygiene habits and comfortability in the dental chair, which alleviates anxiety as the child grows through trust-building and familiarity. Secondly, early examinations and consultations with parents are critical for the prevention of future dental health concerns.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentists recommends children visit the dentist every 6 months in order to prevent cavities and other dental problems. Of course, we understand that every child is unique and may require more frequent visits for a time due to specific conditions or concerns. If your child has not yet visited a dentist for the first time, we recommend scheduling an appointment as soon as possible for a routine cleaning and examination. During this first visit, Dr. Kleypas will discuss the recommended frequency or schedule of your child’s dental visits as well as any follow-up visits required based on their initial examination.

┃What if my child has anxiety about visiting the dentist?

The best way to prevent anxiety about dental visits is to begin dental visits when your child is an infant or toddler (following the ADA recommendations that a child should visit the dentist when the first tooth erupts). Familiarity and trust-building are essential to comfortability during visits to the dentist. Our dentist and friendly team at Kleypas Family Dental have years of experience in pediatric dentistry and will do everything to make your child’s dental experience comfortable and stress-free from start to finish.

If you or your child are particular concerned about involuntary reactions due to anxiety or if your child will need to undergo a pain-inducing procedure such as a tooth extraction, our dentist is ready to administer sedation dentistry in order to ease their nerves and ensure an enjoyable and pain-free experience - both for your child and for you!

┃What can we expect during my child’s dental visits?

Pediatric dental visits may vary depending on the age of your child, the condition of their oral or dental health and if a specific procedure is required. For children who are under 3 years of age, dental visits focus on preventative oral examinations and consultations. For children over 3 years of age, routine dental visits include professional cleanings and exams. If your child needs additional treatments or procedures, our dentist will discuss the options and recommendations so that you have a clear understanding of how to provide the best dental and periodontal care for your child.

Whether your child needs an appointment for a professional cleaning and x-rays or a tooth extraction, families in the Cy-Fair area can always expect friendliness, professionalism, expertise and personal care for every member of your family. We love our community and love providing your family with healthy, beautiful smiles!

┃What kinds of conditions or issues can be treated and address through pediatric dentistry?

Oral and dental health care is a significant aspect of your child’s growth and development. Children should begin practicing good oral hygiene and receive regular evaluations and examinations as early as possible because prevention is the best method for a lifetime of oral health.

Kleypas Family Dental provides comprehensive oral health care for infants through adolescents that includes the following:

• Infant oral health exams including risk assessment

• Preventive dental care including cleaning and fluoride treatments

• Nutrition and diet recommendations for oral and dental health

• Habit counseling (for example, pacifier use and thumb sucking)

• Early assessment and treatment for straightening teeth and correcting an improper bite

• Repair of tooth cavities or defects

• Diagnosis of oral conditions associated with diseases such as diabetes, congenital heart defect, asthma, hay fever, and attention deficit/ hyperactivity disorder

• Management of gum diseases and conditions including ulcers, short frenulae, mucoceles, and pediatric periodontal disease

• Care for dental injuries or emergencies (for example, fractured, displaced, or knocked-out teeth)

If you have any additional questions about pediatric dentistry or your child’s dental health, or if you would like to schedule an appointment, please call our office in Cypress, TX. Our friendly staff will be happy to help you!