It is never too early for a child to receive dental treatment. As soon as the first tooth erupts, it is time to start teaching your little one essential oral hygiene habits and take him or her to the dentist for a checkup. However, because not every dental practitioner is trained to treat small children and adolescents, parents must seek specialized care for their children. At Gentle Care Dentistry, your child’s dentist has the skills and education to give them the most pleasant and thorough treatment possible. At our office in Las Cruces, New Mexico, we welcome children of all ages so that they receive the dental services they need to begin a life of optimal oral health.
For more information regarding our pediatric dentistry and what we can offer to your child, call us at 575-524-3722 to schedule a consultation.
Kid-Friendly Dental Care
Pediatric Dentistry Services
Dental Fillings
Most children experience at least one cavity in their youth. Cavities are areas of tooth decay that are often painful. Fortunately, they can be corrected with fillings. After the decayed material is removed, a filling is used to seal the cavity and restore the tooth to a healthy, functional, and pain-free condition.
Dental Crowns
If your child has extensive tooth decay that cannot be treated with a filling, a crown may be an appropriate approach. Gentle Care Dentistry offers stainless steel dental crowns to preserve the longevity of your child’s first molars. These restorations are durable and can be applied in a single visit.
Tooth Extractions
An extraction may be necessary to remove a tooth that is severely damaged or decayed. It can also be required to prepare for orthodontics. Your child’s dentist at Gentle Care Dentistry works with local orthodontists to perform the appropriate preparatory procedures for their future treatment.
Pulpotomy
Children’s teeth are more sensitive to tooth pain because the nerves of their teeth are closer to the surface. This also makes their teeth more susceptible to tooth decay. A pulpotomy is a procedure that is similar to a root canal and involves removing inflamed pulp from the inside of a child’s tooth to prevent or treat an infection.
Sedation Services
Sedation dentistry helps anxious patients feel calm and relaxed during their dental procedure, allowing for a safer and more comfortable experience. Parents can choose from the following sedation options for their children:
- Intravenous
- Oral
- Inhalation
Concerns
New Patients
Developing a healthy relationship with your child’s dentist begins with their first visit to Gentle Care Dentistry. During the initial appointment, we will learn about your child’s medical history and dental needs to provide effective treatment. You may print and fill out the new patient forms before the appointment to expedite the process.
Appointments
Online scheduling allows patients to schedule their appointments quickly and at their convenience. If you think you will arrive at your appointment late or need to reschedule your visit, please contact our office promptly.
Pain Management
Should your child experience any discomfort following his or her dental procedure, the dentist may recommend taking oral pain medication. When appropriate, applying a compress may also help alleviate some discomfort after treatment.
Cost
Our professional financial coordinator will review all of the financing options available to you. We accept various insurance plans, including Delta Dental and United Concordia, as well as cash, credit, and checks. Patients who qualify can also set up a payment plan that is best suited for their needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Gentle Care Dentistry offer orthodontic treatment for children?
At Gentle Care Dentistry we do not offer orthodontic services for children. However, we work with many local orthodontists and can perform procedures to help prepare your child for orthodontic treatment. We can refer you to an experienced specialist that can address your needs upon request.
Can my child’s diet affect their oral health?
What your child eats does affect his or her oral health. Consuming a healthy, balanced diet that is rich in green vegetables but limited in starches and sugars will protect their teeth from decay. Your dentist can give you detailed advice regarding your child’s diet.
How should I clean my toddler’s teeth?
Before any teeth have erupted, you may clean your child’s gums with a soft washcloth. Once the first tooth has come in, you can begin brushing his or her teeth twice daily with a soft toothbrush and just a tiny smear of age-appropriate toothpaste. After age two, you can apply a pea-sized amount of toothpaste on their toothbrush. Flossing can begin as soon as any two teeth touch. Always supervise brushing until they can do it on their own.