Children’s Dentistry
It’s important to remember that your son or daughter’s first experiences at the dentist have an effect on their lifelong attitude towards oral health. Dr. Leslie Buckley loves working with younger patients, and she’s translated this passion into a fun, relaxing, and transformative dental care experience that children and teenagers alike enjoy. Our Spring Hill team gives them the education and support they need to not only achieve a great smile, but maintain it for many years to come. Contact Dr. Leslie’s today to schedule your loved one’s first visit, or if you have any questions about our available services. We welcome patients from all over Mobile, AL and beyond!
So how can you prepare your child for their first visit to the dentist? Here are some helpful tips:
- Start cleaning their teeth from a very early age with a wet cloth or a baby toothbrush. By making this part of their daily routine right away, children should be better prepared for check-ups and cleanings later in life.
- Feel free to bring your child to our practice beforehand for a fun visit! Dr. Leslie and the rest of our team introduce ourselves and provide a tour so they become used to the sights and sounds of the dental office. Younger patients enjoy our playroom.
- Sometimes, it helps to bring a much-loved toy or book along for your son or daughter. This gives them some comfort if they become nervous or restless during the appointment.
- Be positive about the dentist! Children often pick up on their parents’ anxiety in these situations, so do your best to stay calm and keep them smiling.
Whether your son or daughter is visiting us at the age of 5 or 15, we’ll be sure to personalize care and maintain a gentle, friendly demeanor that helps them feel at ease. Routine check-ups and hygiene appointments help us fully understand growing smiles, and conservative restoration services are available as well for any decay or damage that occur.
Dental Sealants
Keeping teeth free of food and bacteria can be tricky for younger patients, especially the deep chewing grooves of back teeth in hard-to-reach areas. Here in Spring Hill, our team can provide valuable assistance. Dental sealants are designed to cover these back teeth “sealing” their grooves shut and minimizing the risks of developing decay. Our dental sealants are 100% BPA-free for optimal patient safety. Parents appreciate that extra protection, and the application process is so fast and painless your children will be finished before they know it. With proper cleaning and routine check-ups, dental sealants can last up to 10 years!
Topical Fluoride Treatments
Another way to protect children’s smiles is by using topical fluoride. Developing dental structures receive fluoride ingested in foods and fluoridated water. These low levels typically provide adequate amounts of fluoride for developing dental structures as they form below the gum line. For those teeth that have erupted from the gums, only topical fluoride fortifies tooth enamel. Using a highly concentrated dose of fluoride, our team applies the solution to the surfaces of teeth carefully to ensure minimal ingestion of this high dose of fluoride.