Children’s Dentistry
Creating Bright Smiles for Kids
It is essential to instill beneficial practices in your children from a young age, and dental routines are no exception. Initiating their oral hygiene regimen in their formative years can establish a lifelong habit of attending dental appointments. Encourage your child to heed the guidance of the dental professionals during their visits, and ensure they comprehend that visiting a dentist semi-annually is crucial for maintaining their teeth’s brightness and wellness. At home, consistently emphasise the importance of brushing and flossing twice daily.
The most effective approach to uphold your child’s oral health is to commence their dental care early and frequently. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry suggests that your child should have their first dental appointment upon the emergence of their first teeth or by their first birthday. Early assessments can identify indications of tooth decay before it escalates.
Bringing your child for biannual visits will assist in averting the development of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health concerns. During each appointment, we will perform a thorough cleaning of your child’s teeth to eliminate plaque and tartar accumulation. We will also examine for early signs of issues affecting the teeth and gums.
The most effective way to ensure your child remains diligent in their oral health care is to convey that their maintenance is a collaborative effort between them and their hygienist. Tooth decay is increasingly becoming a prevalent chronic condition among adolescents and teenagers, and we can instruct your child on how to effectively prevent it. We will discuss hygiene practices, including brushing and flossing, as well as healthy dietary options like limiting sugars and hard foods.
Fluoride is a crucial element in the treatment of your child’s teeth. This mineral enhances tooth enamel and increases resistance to decay. We provide in-office fluoride treatments and can recommend toothpaste and mouth rinses that contain fluoride for continued use at home.
Another method to assist your child in preventing tooth decay is through the application of sealants. Sealants are placed on the chewing surfaces of molars to shield them from damage and decay. With your support, it is feasible for your child to enjoy a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.
Contact Steele Creek Smiles today to arrange a dental examination and cleaning for your child, setting them on the path to optimal oral health.
Your Trusted Dental Professional
Meet the Doctor
Dr. Vaibhav Bajaj
Dr. Vaibhav Bajaj is a dedicated and compassionate dentist who earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from Tuskegee University followed by earning his Doctor of Dental Surgery from Howard University College of Dentistry. With a deep-rooted passion for dentistry, Dr. Bajaj has established himself as a trusted healthcare professional known for his empathetic and creative commitment to delivering exceptional oral care to his patients.
Dr. Bajaj journey into the world of dentistry was driven by a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others. His empathetic nature and fun personality allow him to connect with his patients on a personal level ensuring that they feel comfortable and at ease during their dental visits. He takes the time to listen to their concerns and is always willing to go the extra mile to provide the highest level of care.
Known to some as “The Dancing Dentist”, Dr. Bajaj prides himself in incorporating his love for dance, music and creativity into his practice. As a result, he attracts and connects with all ages. On any given day the music in his office ranges from the world of Disney to special requests by his patients. His social media presence has afforded him the opportunity to speak at various events and share his love for dentistry that he developed back in the 3rd grade. Dr. Bajaj has traveled the world and provided care to those who are less fortunate on numerous occasions.
Opening The Steele Creek Smiles is a dream come true that he shares with his wife Amber and daughter Alani. They are dedicated to serving the needs of the community. If you are looking for exceptional care rooted from the heart, visit The Steele Creek Smiles where we are Creating Smiles one Patient at a Time.
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Children's Dentistry FAQs
When should my child visit the dentist for the first time?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that children visit the dentist for the first time about six months after their first tooth erupts or no later than their first birthday. These appointments are designed to help your child become comfortable in the dental office and ensure that they are growing and developing correctly.
How do I care for my child’s teeth?
Your child’s teeth are important to their overall health and development. Here are a few tips on caring for your child’s teeth:
- Have your child brush their teeth at least twice a day.
- Help your child floss daily.
- Bring your child to visit the dentist regularly.
- Ask our dentist about preventive care, such as sealants and fluoride.
- Help your child maintain a nutritious and balanced diet.
- Make sure your child wears a mouth guard if they play sports.
What’s the best way to clean my baby’s teeth?
Even before your infant’s first tooth appears, we recommend you clean his or her gums after feedings with a damp, soft washcloth. As soon as the first tooth appears, you can start using a toothbrush. Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles and a small head.
Does my child need dental sealants?
Sealants cover the pits and fissures (grooves) in teeth that are difficult to brush and therefore susceptible to decay. We recommend sealants as a safe, simple way to help your son or daughter avoid cavities, especially for molars, which are hardest to reach.
My child sucks their fingers. How can I help them break this habit?
Thumb and finger sucking is normal in children under age 4. Most children will stop sucking on their own between the ages of 2 and 4, but if the habit persists, it can cause damage to the teeth and oral development. Our dentist and team can provide strategies to help your child stop sucking their fingers or a pacifier. These strategies may include oral appliances, as well as things to try at home, such as putting a glove or a sock over the fingers or creating diversions to distract your child from sucking their fingers. Please contact us for more information.
Accepted Insurance Plans at Steele Creek Smiles
*We also accept and file insurances through the Zelis, Connection, and Dentemax Dental Networks. For a comprehensive list of providers, please click here. If you do not see your in-network dental provider listed above, please let us know. We will do our best to work with any insurance providers our patients carry.