Pediatric Dental Care / Kids Dentist.

Dr. Michelle Tsai has established herself as a premier pediatric dental provider in Clintonville and the surrounding communities. While many dentists refer their pediatric cases, Dr. Tsai is equipped to treat your child’s dental issues directly in our office. By offering pediatric dental care, we can provide a true “family” practice where we address the dental needs of your entire family.

Dr. Tsai recommends that children be seen for dental exams as early as 6 months of age or when the first tooth erupts.

One of the most important components of pediatric dentistry is child psychology. Providers are trained to create a friendly, fun, social atmosphere for visiting children, and always avoid threatening words like “drill,” “needle,” and “injection.” Dental phobias beginning in childhood often continue into adulthood, so it is of paramount importance that children have positive experiences and find their “dental home” as early as possible.

What Does a Pediatric Dentist Do?

Pediatric dental visits are important to a child’s overall oral health and hygiene. Proper maintenance and care of deciduous (baby) teeth is instrumental in facilitating good chewing habits, proper speech production, and holding space for permanent teeth.

Other important functions include:

• Education – We educate the child using models, computer technology, and child-friendly terminology, thus emphasizing the importance of keeping teeth strong and healthy. In addition, they advise parents on disease prevention, trauma prevention, good eating habits, and other aspects of the home hygiene routine.

• Monitoring growth – By continuously tracking growth and development, we can anticipate dental issues and quickly intervene before they worsen. Also, working towards earlier corrective treatment preserves the child’s self-esteem and fosters a more positive self-image.

• Prevention – Helping parents and children establish sound eating and oral care habits reduces the chances of later tooth decay. In addition to providing check ups and dental cleanings, pediatric dentists are also able to apply dental sealants and topical fluoride to young teeth, advise parents on thumb- sucking/pacifier/smoking cessation, and provide good demonstrations of brushing and flossing.

• Intervention – In some cases, we may discuss the possibility of early oral treatments with parents. In the case of oral injury, malocclusion (bad bite), or bruxism (grinding), space maintainers may be fitted, a nighttime mouth guard may be recommended, or reconstructive surgery may be scheduled.

If you have questions or concerns about pediatric dentistry, please contact our office.