Children’s Dentistry

Your Child’s First Visit to the Dentist

The first “regular” dental visit should be just after your child’s third birthday. The first dental visit is usually short and involves very little treatment. We may ask you to sit in the dental chair and hold your child during the examination. You may also be asked to wait in the reception area during part of the visit so that a relationship can be built between your child and your dentist.

We will gently examine your child’s teeth and gums. X-rays may be taken (to reveal decay and check on the progress of your child’s permanent teeth under the gums). We may clean your child’s teeth and apply topical fluoride to help protect the teeth against decay. We will make sure your child is receiving adequate fluoride at home. Most important of all, we will review with you how to clean and care for your child’s teeth.

Is Your Child in Need of Dental Care?

Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

Call us: (260) 622-4138

What should I tell my child about the first dental visit?

We are asked this question many times. We suggest you prepare your child the same way you would before their first haircut or trip to the shoe store. Your child’s reaction to his first visit to the dentist may surprise you.

Here are some “First Visit” Tips:

  • Take your child for a “preview” of the office.
  • Read books with them about going to the dentist.
  • Review with them what the dentist will be doing at the time of the first visit.
  • Speak positively about your own dental experiences.

During your first visit the dentist will:

  • Examine your mouth, teeth and gums.
  • Evaluate adverse habits like thumb sucking.
  • Check to see if you need fluoride.
  • Teach you about cleaning your teeth and gums.
  • Suggest a schedule for regular dental visits.

What about preventative care?

Tooth decay and children no longer have to go hand in hand. At our office we are most concerned with all aspects of preventive care. We use the latest in dental sealant technology to protect your child’s teeth. Dental sealants are space-age plastics that are bonded to the chewing surfaces of decay-prone back teeth. This is just one of the ways we will set the foundation for your child’s lifetime of good oral health.

Cavity Prevention

Most of the time cavities are due to a diet high in sugary foods and a lack of brushing. Limiting sugar intake and brushing regularly, of course, can help. The longer it takes your child to chew their food and the longer the residue stays on their teeth, the greater the chances of getting cavities.

Every time someone eats, an acid reaction occurs inside their mouth as the bacteria digests the sugars. This reaction lasts approximately 20 minutes. During this time the acid environment can destroy the tooth structure, eventually leading to cavities.

Consistency of a person’s saliva also makes a difference; thinner saliva breaks up and washes away food more quickly. When a person eats diets high in carbohydrates and sugars they tend to have thicker saliva, which in turn allows more of the acid-producing bacteria that can cause cavities.

Tips for Cavity Prevention

  • Limit frequency of meals and snacks.
  • Encourage brushing, flossing and rinsing.
  • Watch what your child drinks.
  • Avoid giving your child sticky foods.
  • Make treats part of meals.
  • Choose nutritious snacks.

The first baby teeth that come into the mouth are the two bottom front teeth. You will notice this when your baby is about 6-8 months old. Next to follow will be the 4 upper front teeth and the remainder of your baby’s teeth will appear periodically. They will usually appear in pairs along the sides of the jaw until the child is about 2 1/2 years old.

At around 2 1/2 years old your child should have all 20 teeth. Between the ages of 5 and 6 the first permanent teeth will begin to erupt. Some of the permanent teeth replace baby teeth and some don’t. Don’t worry if some teeth are a few months early or late as all children are different.

Baby teeth are important as they not only hold space for permanent teeth but they are important to chewing, biting, speech and appearance. For this reason it is important to maintain a healthy diet and daily hygiene.

Still Waters Family Dentistry

5 out of 5 stars based on 11 Child Dentistry reviews

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I love this dental staff. I've been with them for 20 years and 3 dentists. They never disappoint. Dr Downy has also impressed me. Very nice, gives you the treatment options and didn't push for a root canal as first line treatment.

- Nina O

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

The entire staff is extremely courteous and respectful. Upon arriving you can tell / feel that you are welcome and their concern is genuine. The waiting area is very comfortable and relaxing. There is even a fire place! I highly recommend Stillwater Dentistry.

- Vesta M

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Very friendly office and staff. All listen to any concern I had and addressed the question in away that was understandable. Would recommend this office.

- PAMELA W

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Everything has always been friendly, courteous and professional. Stillwater is like being around family and friends.

- ed h

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

As always, all the staff members at Still Waters Family Dentistry make a visit to the dentist a pleasant experience. From the welcome at the front office, to the efficient yet gentle cleaning procedure, to the thorough exam by Dr. Downey, to the wrap-up and send-off back at the front, each person is friendly and caring in all of their interactions. I always walk out the door with a sparkling smile on my face.

- Deb M

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Lauren is the best hygienist ever! She is gentle and thorough, personable and friendly. Dr Downy is not pushy about services. He makes recommendations, but totally leaves the decision up to the patient. The front office is always friendly and willing to help with any questions about making appointments and costs for procedures. I highly recommend this dentist office.

- Nancy B

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

As I figured the office is growing. I was seen by a new hygienist and she was great. Professional and friendly they have kept their small town feel while using the latest equip and technology to leave you feeling well taken care of. If you want great dental care at a fair price this is the office for you.

- steve s

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I have a challenging mouth. Dr. Clark and Melissa did a great job. They are very informative about what's going on and concerned about the patients comfort. Great nob

- Steve B

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I started coming to this dentist office because I broke a tooth. They understood and got me right in to take care of the pain and I have been a customer ever since. They knew Dennis has taken over for the one that was originally there and he is every bit as friendly as the others. The staff didn't change and everyone goes out of their way to make you feel very comfortable.

- Steven S

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

A dedicated doctor and staff putting the customer first. Always comforting to know you are in good hands.

- Donald N

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Friendly, knowledgeable, caring office

- Dobie P

5 out of 5 stars on