Pediatric Dentistry in Shreveport, LA
Caring for Young Smiles: Pediatric Dentistry
Taking care from a young age.
At Loud Family Dental, we understand the importance of providing dental care for the entire family. We believe that the convenience of having mom, dad, and children seen in the same location not only benefits our patients but also helps us develop a closer connection with your family as we watch your child's smile grow.
The Importance of Pediatric Dentistry
A child's smile significantly influences the development of their adult teeth. Early cavities, habits like thumb-sucking, and athletic injuries can all play roles in their oral health and development.
By introducing your child to a family dentist early, you create a positive perception of dental care. Waiting until they experience pain can lead to negative or even fearful associations with dental visits as they grow older. A positive early experience sets the stage for a lifetime of comfortable dental care.
The First Dental Visit
According to pediatricians and pediatric dentists, children should have their first dental visit by their first birthday or when the first tooth erupts. Schedule your family's next dental visit to our family practice today!
Common Pediatric Dental Treatments
Our family dentist offers a range of treatments for children, including:
Exam and Cleaning:
Routine check-ups include dental cleaning, diet discussions, and oral hygiene education.
Digital X-rays:
These help us identify cavities and assess orofacial development.
Protective Sealants:
Clear coatings are applied to molars to make them easier to clean and prevent cavities.
Fillings:
Modest white fillings to prevent decay from spreading.
Crowns and Pulp Treatments:
Restorative options for damaged baby teeth.
Extractions and Space Maintainers:
Removal of severely decayed teeth and the use of space maintainers when necessary.
Orthodontic Evaluations:
Assessing bite development and the need for interceptive orthodontics.
What to Expect During Early Visits
Our primary goal during pediatric dental exams is to identify developing issues that can impact your child's overall health, speech, diet, and orofacial anatomy. Early screening and intervention can reduce the risk of issues such as:
Undiagnosed tooth decay or abscessed teeth.
Dental emergencies.
Malocclusion (misalignment of teeth and jaws).
Premature tooth loss.
Alterations to developing adult teeth.
Although baby teeth eventually fall out, treating them is crucial because decay can spread rapidly, causing pain, abscesses, hospitalizations, and premature tooth loss. The premature loss of a baby tooth can affect the way adult teeth erupt, leading to long-term issues.