If you are looking for a Baton Rouge pediatric dentist, Dr. Collins loves seeing children. As a proud father of four young kids, he knows how important it is to pave the way for good dental health at a young age. Our families enjoy the convenience and trust that comes from everyone being treated by the same dentist.
What is a Pediatric Dentist?
A pediatric dentist specializes in the diagnosis of dental problems in children and requires an additional two years of training beyond dental school. We are not licensed as a pediatric dentist. Dr. Collins is a general dentist that enjoys treating children. He is thoroughly trained to treat all your child’s basic dental needs and has a knack for making children feel at ease in the chair. If a situation arises in the treatment of your child that is beyond our training, we will refer your child to a local pediatric dentist.
Going to the Dentist Can be Fun
Too many parents have had bad dental experiences when they were younger. But we are out to change that mindset for our families. We encourage you to schedule routine dental visits for your child by three years of age. This is because we want your child to have a positive first experience instead of waiting until your child has a dental emergency where they will associate going to the dentist with pain.
Many of our staff have children of their own and work together to make going to the dentist fun. From the time you are warmly welcomed at the front desk, to the time your child picks a new toothbrush to take home, we will make every effort to make your child comfortable. And you are more than welcome to accompany your child during their dental exam.
Dental Tips for Parents
- As soon as your child has teeth, start cleaning them. A clean, moist wash cloth can be used until they are ready for a toothbrush.
- Bring them into the office by age three, because cavities can be evident at this time. At their first visit it is our goal to familiarize them with the dentist and what to expect. We have found that if you are scheduled for a cleaning, it is helpful for your child to watch. Then, we invite them into the chair and only do as much as they are comfortable with. We will count their teeth and if they are accepting, we will perform an exam and gentle cleaning. It’s all about having fun!
- Try not to make too big a deal by over-preparing your child for the dentist. When you worry or coach them, we have found that they tend to be anxious. If you are relaxed and treat it as something routine, this will translate to your child.
- Brush your child’s teeth for them until they can do it on their own. Singing songs or counting while brushing can make this a fun and productive part of your day.
- Don’t threaten or use any scare tactics when instilling home dental habits.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Make sure your child spits out the excess toothpaste when finished, but don’t worry if they swallow a tiny bit.
- Flossing can be introduced at a young age, around three years old. Have them watch you floss and then help them floss the areas between the teeth. It is important to note that many cavities in young children form between the teeth where the toothbrush doesn’t reach. It will be many years before your child is able to floss successfully on their own.
- Fluoride treatment can help your child’s teeth to be more decay resistant. During your child’s visit we will discuss when the right time to begin these treatments is for your child.
- Remember, don’t wait until your child is in pain to bring them in. The more fun and positive routine visits they have early on, means a better chance for lifelong healthy dental habits.