Overview
Every parent knows the joy that comes with a child’s smile. At Deal Family Dental in Greenbrier, we understand how crucial those little teeth are—for chewing, speaking, self-esteem, and long-term oral health. Pediatric dentistry is the key to ensuring your little one’s smile stays bright and healthy. Led by our exceptional dentists, Dr. Stephen Deal and Dr. LaRhonda Apata, and their team, your child can get the best care your smile deserves.
What is Pediatric Dentistry? 
Pediatric dentistry focuses on the oral health of infants, children, and adolescents. It involves examining, diagnosing, preventing, and treating various dental conditions. Most importantly, growth and development of the jaws and teeth need to be assessed early on in a child’s development. Healthy growth and development are essential for lifelong oral health.
At Deal Family Dental, Dr. Stephen Deal and Dr. LaRhonda Apata are skilled in managing children’s behavioral aspects and providing them with the best possible dental experience. Building a positive relationship with the dentist from an early age can set the foundation for a lifetime of excellent oral health.
The Importance of Pediatric Dental Care
Early dental care is vital for your child’s overall health. Frequent visits to Deal Family Dental can avoid or minimize dental issues. Despite being temporary, baby teeth play a crucial role in your child’s development.
Baby teeth help with proper chewing, eating, and speech development and hold space for permanent teeth. When children have healthy baby teeth, they are more likely to have healthy adult teeth. Ignoring dental issues can lead to complications such as misalignment, infections, and even speech impediments.
Regular dental check-ups prevent cavities and other dental problems and instill good oral hygiene habits in children. When children learn to take care of their teeth from an early age, they carry those habits into adulthood, reducing the risk of dental issues later in life.
Services We Offer at Deal Family Dental
Dental Development Evaluation
We monitor your child’s dental development to ensure standard progress. Early detection of issues allows for timely intervention.
Growth and Development
Regular check-ups help us track your child’s growth and development and provide insights into how oral health impacts overall well-being.
Myofunctional therapy addresses oral and facial muscle function. This therapy can improve breathing, swallowing, and speech, promoting a healthier smile.
Cleanings
Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup, preventing cavities and gum disease. Our gentle approach ensures your child is comfortable throughout the process.
Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent decay. Our fluoride treatments are quick, effective, and safe for children of all ages.
Parent Involvement
We encourage parents to be active participants in their child’s dental care. We provide guidance on maintaining oral hygiene at home and answer parents’ questions.
Oral Habit Evaluation
Habits like thumb sucking or pacifier use can impact dental development. We assess these habits and recommend minimizing their effects on your child’s teeth.
Orthodontic Recommendations
Early assessments can identify potential orthodontic issues. We provide guidance on whether braces or other treatments may be needed.
Sealants
Sealants are protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of molars to prevent cavities. They are particularly effective in children with deep grooves in their teeth.
Sports Safety
We offer custom mouthguards for children involved in sports to protect their teeth from injury. Proper protection is essential to maintaining a healthy smile.
Taking Care of Your Child’s Smile at Home
While regular dental visits are essential, maintaining good oral hygiene at home is equally crucial. Here are some tips to help your child care for their smile:
- Start Early: Clean your baby’s gums before their first tooth erupts. After feeding, use a soft, damp cloth to wipe their gums gently.
- Brush Twice a Day: Once teeth appear, brush your child’s teeth twice daily using a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of toothpaste.
- Floss Daily: Teach your child to floss between teeth once two teeth touch. Flossing removes plaque and food particles that brushing might miss.
- Limit Sugary Snacks: Encourage a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Limit sugary snacks and drinks that can contribute to cavities.
- Lead by Example: Children often imitate their parents. Set a good example by practicing good oral hygiene habits yourself.
These tips can help your child develop strong oral health habits that will last a lifetime. Remember, a healthy smile starts at home!
Pediatric Dentistry in Greenbrier
Pediatric dentistry in Greenbrier is vital to your child’s health and well-being. We’re committed to providing the best care for your child’s smile at Deal Family Dental in Greenbrier. From preventive services to personalized treatment plans, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Please schedule an appointment with Dr. Stephen Deal or Dr. LaRhonda Apata today and give your child the gift of excellent oral health. Let’s ensure your child’s smile shines brightly for years to come.
