Helping your child develop good oral hygiene habits early sets the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. From brushing techniques to preventing cavities, parents play a vital role in ensuring their children maintain strong, healthy teeth.
At West 17th Ave Dental Care, we offer family dental care in Calgary, including gentle and comprehensive dentistry for children. We welcome families from Sunalta, Scarboro, Connaught (Beltline), Downtown West End, Hillhurst, West Hillhurst, Kensington, Upper Mount Royal, and Lower Mount Royal to visit our clinic for a comfortable and stress-free dental experience.
When Should Your Child See a Dentist?
The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) recommends that children visit the dentist by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears. Early visits help:
- Monitor tooth and gum development.
- Educate parents on proper dental hygiene for toddlers.
- Make children comfortable with dental visits to prevent fear and anxiety.
We provide general children’s dental care in Calgary and recommend regular checkups every six months to maintain healthy teeth.
Tips for Brushing Kids’ Teeth & Maintaining Oral Hygiene
1. Start Brushing Early
- For babies: Wipe gums with a soft, damp cloth before teeth emerge.
- For toddlers: Use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush with a grain-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
- For ages 3 and up: Increase to a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste and brush twice a day for two minutes.
2. Make Brushing & Flossing Fun
- Let kids choose their toothbrush (characters or fun colors).
- Use a timer or brushing songs to encourage proper brushing time.
- Introduce flossing when two teeth touch.
3. Encourage a Tooth-Friendly Diet
- Limit sugary drinks and snacks (juice, soda, candy).
- Provide teeth-friendly foods like dairy, crunchy fruits, and vegetables.
- Encourage fluoridated water, which strengthens enamel.
Preventing Cavities in Children
Cavities are common in kids, but proper oral care and routine dental visits help keep them at bay.
1. Avoid Baby Bottle Tooth Decay
• Avoid putting your child to bed with milk or juice, as this can cause early childhood cavities.
• Transition from bottles to sippy cups by age 1.
2. Choose Healthy Snacks
• Sticky foods like gummies and dried fruit cling to teeth and cause decay.
• Opt for cheese, apples, and crunchy veggies instead.
3. Consider Preventive Treatments
• Fluoride treatments for kids strengthen teeth and prevent decay.
• Dental sealants for children protect molars from cavities.
We offer preventive dental care for kids in Calgary, including sealants and fluoride treatments, to keep your child’s smile healthy.
What to Expect at Your Child’s First Dental Visit
A child’s first dental visit is all about helping them feel comfortable. During the appointment, we will:
- Gently examine teeth, gums, and jaw development.
- Discuss brushing techniques and diet tips.
- Offer preventive treatments, such as fluoride if needed.
- Make the visit fun and stress-free to encourage positive dental habits.
We provide children’s dental care in Calgary in a warm, family-friendly environment to ensure a positive experience for young patients.
Managing Dental Anxiety in Children
If your child is nervous about visiting the dentist, here’s how you can help:
1. Choose a Family-Friendly Dentist
At West 17th Ave Dental Care, we provide gentle and comfortable dental care for children as part of our family dentistry services.
2. Use Positive Reinforcement
• Praise children for good oral hygiene habits.
• Offer small rewards like stickers after a successful visit.
3. Read Books or Watch Videos About the Dentist
• Stories about familiar characters visiting the dentist help ease anxiety.
4. Schedule Appointments at the Right Time
• Morning visits work best when kids are rested and cooperative.
Orthodontics for Kids in Calgary
Some children may need early orthodontic care to ensure proper tooth alignment. Signs your child may require treatment include:
- Crowding or misaligned teeth.
- Speech difficulties related to bite alignment.
- Thumb-sucking past age 4-5.
We provide orthodontic assessments and refer families to trusted orthodontic specialists if treatment is needed.
Emergency Dental Care for Children in Calgary
Accidents can happen! If your child experiences a dental emergency, knowing what to do can help prevent further damage.
Common emergencies include:
- Knocked-out tooth
- Broken or chipped tooth
- Severe toothache
At West 17th Ave Dental Care, we provide emergency dental care for children in Calgary and offer same-day appointments whenever possible.
Why Choose West 17th Ave Dental Care for Family Dental Care in Calgary?
✔ Experienced general dentists offering children’s dental care.
✔ Preventive treatments, including fluoride treatments and dental sealants.
✔ A family-friendly environment to make visits enjoyable.
✔ Comprehensive dental care for the whole family.
We proudly serve families in Sunalta, Scarboro, Connaught (Beltline), Downtown West End, Hillhurst, West Hillhurst, Kensington, Upper Mount Royal, Lower Mount Royal, and surrounding Calgary communities.
Book Your Child’s Dental Checkup Today!
Good oral health starts early! Whether it’s your child’s first dental visit or a routine checkup, we’re here to help them maintain a healthy, happy smile.
📞 Call 403-244-1124 or Book an Appointment Online today!
