Early Dental Care

At New Canaan Pediatric Dentistry, we are dedicated to establishing a foundation of excellent oral health for your child from their very first smile. We invite you to partner with us to ensure your child's dental experience is positive, pleasant, and sets them up for a lifetime of healthy habits. Call 203-594-9500 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.

According to the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a child’s first dental check-up should occur between the ages of 6 months to one year. Informing your child about their first dental visit is very helpful. At your child’s first visit, we will review the medical/dental health history form with you.  Your child will meet the dentist and have everything explained to him/her.

We strive to make your child's first visit to our office a wonderful and positive experience. Our friendly team will welcome you into our child-friendly environment, complete with games and activities to help your little one feel right at home. During the visit, Dr. Simonis will perform a gentle examination, check for normal dental development, and provide a comfortable introduction to the dental chair, making sure every child feels like the most important person in the room.

Many parents wonder why baby teeth are so important when they are just going to fall out. Primary teeth play a crucial role in your child's development. They are essential for proper chewing and nutrition, aid in clear speech development, and act as placeholders, saving space for the permanent teeth to erupt correctly. Establishing a healthy routine for primary teeth helps create good habits that will last a lifetime.

Even before the first tooth erupts, your child’s gums should be wiped gently with a wet cloth or gauze after every feeding. At the appearance of the first tooth, begin brushing your child’s teeth with water. Children older than 2 years should be supervised during brushing to ensure that only a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste is used, and that the toothpaste is spit out rather than swallowed, and they rinse with water afterward.

Primary teeth, if not kept clean and healthy, can develop decay. Preventing cavities is a key part of our pediatric dental care. We focus on proactive measures to protect your child's smile. Our team provides professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar build-up, and we may recommend fluoride treatments to strengthen tooth enamel and make it more resistant to decay. For extra protection, we also offer dental sealants, which are thin coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth to seal out food and germs.

Great dental health starts at home, and we are here to support you in building those routines. We recommend brushing your child's teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. As soon as two teeth touch, it's important to start flossing daily. Our team will happily demonstrate proper techniques and offer tips to make brushing and flossing a fun and regular part of your child’s day.

A warm, family-focused approach is at the heart of everything we do. Our team understands the importance of building a positive, long-term relationship with your family. We treat each child with compassion and work to create a rapport that makes them feel comfortable and even excited to visit the dentist.

State-of-the-art, modern technology ensures your child receives the highest quality of care. Our office is equipped with cutting-edge systems and procedures, including digital X-rays, designed to provide efficient and effective treatments in a refreshed and comfortable setting. We blend advanced care with a warm, unique environment built around the fabric of our community.

Deeply rooted in the New Canaan community, our practice is more than just a dental office; it's a local staple. As a single-owner practice built from its infancy, we take pride in our town participation, from sponsoring the Halloween Block Party to visiting local preschools for Children's Dental Health Month. We are committed to the growth and well-being of the children in our town.

Frequently Asked Questions About Early Dental Care

When should my child have their first dental visit?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a child's first dental visit should occur by their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth erupts. Early visits allow us to identify any potential issues and help your child become comfortable with the dental environment.

How can I soothe my teething baby?

Teething can be uncomfortable for your little one. We suggest gently rubbing your baby's gums with a clean finger, a moist gauze pad, or a cooled teething ring. Avoid using topical numbing gels, as they can be unsafe if swallowed.

What are the best ways to prevent cavities in children?

A balanced diet low in sugary snacks and drinks is essential. Paired with daily brushing and flossing and regular dental check-ups, you can significantly reduce your child's risk of developing cavities. Professional fluoride treatments and dental sealants also offer excellent protection.

How do I know if my child is getting enough fluoride?

During your child's visit, we can assess their fluoride exposure and determine if supplements or specific treatments are needed. Fluoride is vital for strengthening enamel and preventing decay.

What is the best toothbrush and toothpaste for my child?

Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles and a small head that fits comfortably in your child's mouth. Use a smear of fluoride toothpaste for children under three and a pea-sized amount for children aged three and older. We can provide personalized recommendations at your appointment.

Call New Canaan Pediatric Dentistry

Ready to give your child the gift of a healthy smile? Call 203-594-9500 or contact us today to schedule your child's first visit and become a part of our dental family.