Why Choose a Pediatric Dentist?

Children, like adults, have unique dental needs. Because they are constantly growing, it’s important to establish good habits early on, as well as identify the potential need for a children’s orthodontic practice. It’s one of the reasons why so many local families choose our pediatric dentist in Weymouth, MA, when it comes to their children’s oral health.

Pediatric dentists have chosen to limit their practices to children and adolescents because we love treating children. As experts in the changing needs of growing children, care and treatment of patients with special needs (autism spectrum disorder, sensory disorder, and developmental delay), interceptive orthodontics, and preventive care, we are your comprehensive source for personalized care.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that all children be seen by their first birthday. Dental problems can begin early—especially if an infant is nursing or is bottle-fed. We believe that a thorough prevention program, which begins with educating parents, is the best way to ensure healthy teeth and a bright smile for your young child. However, it is never too late to start. We welcome pediatric and adolescent patients of any age.

During the initial visit, we will review your child’s medical and dental history and discuss your concerns about your child’s teeth. We may recommend a few diagnostic digital radiographs. If your child is ready, we will clean the teeth, remove any calculus, and apply a topical fluoride treatment.

One of our infant dentists will perform a thorough oral examination and discuss the findings with you along with any necessary treatment recommendations. Should your child be in need of comprehensive orthodontic care, our orthodontist will be happy to provide a complimentary orthodontic examination.

You can view, download, and print our complete new patient information packet by clicking on all the PDF files on the Patient Forms page. If you prefer to receive our new patient information packet by mail, simply ask our receptionist when you call to make your child’s appointment.

Don’t let your child know of any anxiety you may have about dental visits.

If your child is no longer an infant, it’s helpful if you encourage him or her to look forward to their first visit. Reading books together, accompanying an older sibling, or simply talking about the fun one has at the dental office can go a long way toward allaying any anxiety your child may have.

Leave the talking to us! We use children’s dental words and have special, non-scary ways of explaining treatment to your child. Don’t purposely mislead your child. At the same time, don’t give your child more information than he or she is able to understand. By all means, avoid using words like “hurt,” “drill,” “X-rays,” or “shot.” Avoid comments that may appear to be reassuring, such as, “Don’t worry, the doctor won’t hurt you.” Such comments actually make your child more anxious rather than less. After all, your child knows that when anticipated experiences are really fun, you never say that.

Many studies, along with decades of evidence, have shown that most children over the age of three react more positively when permitted to experience the dental visit on their own. If we feel that your child may benefit from coming into our treatment area alone, we will discuss this as an option before proceeding. We welcome parents that wish to accompany their children into our treatment area, as in many cases, this can help with your child’s anxiety. We may, however, ask that you be a “silent partner” and sit by quietly. This gives our dentists the opportunity to establish communication and trust directly with your child.

For the safety and privacy of all patients, other children who are not being treated should remain in the reception room with a supervising adult.

We proudly serve families in Weymouth, MA, as well as those throughout the South Shore.