Shoreline Pediatric Dentist: Ensuring a Healthy Smile for Your Child
Finding the right Shoreline pediatric dentist for your child is crucial for establishing a foundation of good oral health that lasts a lifetime. Dr. Eric Yao's practice is dedicated to providing exceptional dental care Shoreline for children of all ages in a welcoming and comfortable environment.
This page is designed to answer your questions about pediatric dentistry in Shoreline, from your child's first visit to establishing healthy oral hygiene habits.
Creating a Positive Dental Experience for Kids in Shoreline
A child's first visit to the dentist should be a positive experience that lays the groundwork for future checkups. At Dr. Yao's Shoreline Kids dentist office, we understand that children may feel apprehensive about visiting the dentist. That's why our team uses gentle techniques and clear communication to make your child feel comfortable and at ease. Our office is also designed with children in mind, featuring bright colours, fun decorations, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that a child's first visit to the dentist should happen by their first birthday. This early visit allows Dr. Yao to assess your child's oral health, address any potential concerns, and answer any questions you may have. Regular dental checkups every six months at our Shoreline pediatric dental office are essential for monitoring your child's oral development, preventing cavities, and promoting good oral hygiene habits.
Your Child's Oral Health Journey in Shoreline
Getting to Know Your Teeth is Fun!
- When New Teeth Arrive: Your child's first primary teeth typically erupt between six and twelve months. This process can cause discomfort for your child. To soothe their gums, you can gently rub them with a clean finger or a cool, wet cloth. Teething rings can also provide relief. By age three, most children will have a full set of 20 primary teeth.
- Adopting Healthy Oral Hygiene Habits: As soon as your child's first tooth erupts, it's important to establish a regular brushing routine. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste (unless advised otherwise by your dentist). Brushing twice a day (after breakfast and before bed) is ideal, with additional brushing after lunch and dinner as your child gets older.
- Flossing and Regular Checkups: Flossing is an important part of maintaining good oral hygiene. Dr. Yao will advise you on the appropriate time to introduce flossing into your child's routine. Regular dental checkups and cleanings every six months at our Shoreline pediatric dental office are essential for preventing tooth decay and ensuring your child's oral health stays on track.
Preventing Tooth Decay with Regular Checkups and Treatments
Sugary foods and drinks can contribute to tooth decay, which is a common concern for children. Regular dental checkups, combined with proper brushing and flossing habits, help prevent cavities. Dr. Yao may recommend additional preventive treatments such as fluoride treatments and dental sealants to further protect your child's teeth. Fluoride treatments strengthen tooth enamel, while sealants coat the grooves of teeth, making them less susceptible to decay.
Why Choose Dr. Eric Yao for Pediatric Dentistry in Shoreline?
Dr. Eric Yao is a dedicated and experienced Shoreline pediatric dentist who is passionate about providing children with the dental care they need to maintain healthy smiles. Here's what sets Dr. Yao apart:
- Gentle and compassionate approach: Dr. Yao understands that children may feel anxious about dental visits. He uses a gentle touch, clear communication, and a positive attitude to make your child feel comfortable.
- Experience in treating children: Dr. Yao has extensive experience treating children of all ages and understands the unique dental needs of each developmental stage.
- Fun and inviting office environment: Our office is designed to be a welcoming and relaxing space for children, fostering positive dental experiences.
- Comprehensive dental care: Dr. Yao offers a wide range of preventive and restorative dental services to meet your child's individual needs.
Schedule an Appointment with Your Shoreline Pediatric Dentist Today!
If you're searching for a Shoreline pediatric dentist who prioritizes your child's oral health and comfort, contact Dr. Eric Yao's office today. We offer convenient appointment times and a friendly atmosphere to ensure a positive dental experience for your child. Call us at 206-487-7800 to schedule an appointment for your child and take the first step towards a lifetime of healthy smiles!
A child's first visit to the Pediatric dentist should be enjoyable. Children are not born with a natural fear of the dentist, but they can fear the unknown. The office of Dr. Eric Yao makes a special effort to use pleasant, non-frightening, simple words to describe each treatment. We want you and your child to feel at ease from the moment your family arrives at our office. The more you and your child know about the first visit, the better you will feel.
When New Teeth Arrive
Your child's first primary or baby teeth will begin to erupt between the ages of six and 12 months, and will continue to erupt until about age three. During this time, your child's gums may feel tender and sore. To help alleviate this discomfort, we recommend that you soothe the gums by rubbing a clean finger or a cool, wet cloth across them. You may also choose to make use of a teething ring. When your child has finished teething, you can expect a total of 20 primary teeth.
Your child's primary teeth are shed at various times throughout childhood. Permanent teeth begin erupting at age six, and continue until age 21. Adults have 28 permanent teeth (32, including wisdom teeth).
Adopting Healthy Oral Hygiene Habits
As your child's teeth erupt, be sure to examine them every two weeks, looking for lines and discoloration that may be caused by decay. Remember that sugary foods and liquids can attack a new tooth, so take care that your child brushes after feeding or eating. We recommend brushing four times a day for optimal oral hygiene: after breakfast, after lunch, after dinner, and at bedtime.
Brushing can be fun, and your child should brush as soon as the first tooth arrives. When a baby's tooth erupts, parents should brush the tooth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. For children younger than two, do not use fluoride toothpaste unless advised to do so by your dentist or other healthcare professional. We suggest reviewing proper tooth-brushing procedures with your child.
Flossing is also a part of good oral hygiene habits, and your doctor will discuss with you the right time to start flossing. If you notice signs of decay, contact your dentist immediately.
Preventing Tooth Decay with Regular Checkups
Tooth decay is caused by sugars left in your mouth that turn into an acid, which can break down your teeth. Children are at high risk for tooth decay for a simple reason: many children and adolescents do not practice regular, good oral hygiene habits. Proper brushing and flossing routines combined with regular dental visits help keep tooth decay away.
Your child should visit the Pediatric dentist at Shoreline every six months for regular dental cleanings and checkups. We recommend fluoride treatments twice a year along with cleanings to keep teeth their strongest. Tooth sealants are also recommended because they "seal" the deep grooves in your child's teeth, preventing decay from forming in these hard-to-reach areas. Sealants last for several years, but will be monitored at your child's regular checkups.
