Parents' Page
Your children are welcome in our office!
In most cases, Dr. Dalin, Dr. Feigenbaum, and our team can provide the age-appropriate, comfortable, important dental care children need in their formative years. We understand kids and do our best to make them feel comfortable and welcome in our St. Louis dentist's office. However, in some cases, we refer children to a specialist. Rest assured, we will only refer your child if the dentists believe that a children’s dentist could provide better care in the situation.
When does a child need to start visiting the dentist?
The American Dental Association recommends children visit a dentist by age one. The first visit is really just to get acquainted. By becoming familiar with the sights, sounds, and people at our St. Louis dental office, your child will feel comfortable with dental appointments as they grow. By age two, children need twice-a-year checkups, and by age four, add six-month cleanings to your calendar, as well. If at any age, your child develops dental problems (teeth, gums, jaws), call us for an appointment.
Do kids need cleanings?
Yes. By age four, or close to that, your child should attend six-month cleanings with our hygienist. At these visits, the hygienist will count and chart the teeth, probe gums for signs of gingivitis, and thoroughly clean the teeth of plaque, tartar, and food particles. We may also apply dental sealants and a fluoride rinse to ward off cavities. A cleaning is a great time for you and your child to ask about homecare. The hygienist will be happy to show you tips for easy, effective brushing and flossing.
When should a kid have wisdom teeth removed?
Not everyone has four wisdom teeth, and not all people need their wisdom teeth removed. However, removal of third molars is easier for young patients. Dr. Dalin or Dr. Feigenbaum can review your child’s X-rays and let you know if and when wisdom teeth should be removed.
Can children have nitrous oxide (laughing gas)?
Yes, once they are old enough. Dr. Dalin or Dr. Feigenbaum will let you know when your child is ready for nitrous oxide. If your child is too young, but needs a dental procedure that requires more than local anesthetic for optimal comfort, we may refer you to a children’s dentist.
Visit Dental Fun for trivia, jokes, and puzzles!
Learn more about kids’ smiles at the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry website.
We welcome you, your family, friends, and coworkers to experience state-of-the-art dentistry, excellent clinical care, and superb customer service. Call our St. Louis dental office at (314) 567-5612 if you have any other questions or would like to schedule an appointment. Our Creve Coeur, MO dental office is conveniently located for patients throughout the St. Louis area. We welcome the opportunity to give your smile life!