Pediatric Dentistry
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Caring for Your Child's Smile
At Stephen A. Rodgers, DMD Family Dentistry, we love seeing young patients! We believe that establishing good dental habits early is one of the greatest gifts you can give your child. Our team is experienced in working with children of all ages — from infants to teenagers — and we go out of our way to make every visit fun, comfortable, and positive.
Dr. Rodgers takes a gentle, patient approach with young patients, explaining each step in kid-friendly terms and taking the time to build trust. Our goal is for your child to leave every appointment feeling confident and excited about taking care of their teeth.
Pediatric Services We Offer
Infant & Toddler Exams
Gentle first visits designed to make young children comfortable with the dental office while checking for early signs of decay or developmental concerns.
Dental Cleanings
Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar that brushing misses, keeping young smiles healthy and teaching kids what a clean mouth feels like.
Fluoride Treatments
Topical fluoride applications strengthen tooth enamel and significantly reduce the risk of cavities in children and teens.
Dental Sealants
Thin protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth, sealants are highly effective at preventing cavities in the grooves where decay most often starts.
Cavity Treatment
When cavities do occur, we treat them gently and efficiently using tooth-colored fillings, keeping your child comfortable throughout the process.
Mouthguards
Custom-fitted athletic mouthguards protect your child's teeth and jaw during sports and physical activities — far superior to over-the-counter options.
Orthodontic Evaluation
We monitor bite and tooth alignment as your child grows and can refer to an orthodontist when the time is right for braces or Invisalign treatment.
Patient Education
We teach children proper brushing and flossing techniques in a fun, age-appropriate way, empowering them to take ownership of their oral health.
Dental Care at Every Age
First Tooth / 12 Months
Schedule your child's first dental visit when their first tooth appears or by their first birthday — whichever comes first. Early visits help us catch any concerns and establish a positive relationship with the dentist.
Ages 2–5
We focus on preventive care, proper brushing habits, and monitoring tooth development. Fluoride treatments and dental sealants may be recommended to protect young teeth from decay.
Ages 6–12
As baby teeth are replaced by permanent teeth, we monitor spacing, bite development, and overall oral health. This is a great time to discuss orthodontic needs and reinforce good habits.
Ages 13–18
Teens face unique challenges including wisdom teeth, sports injuries, and the temptation to skip brushing. We provide guidance on all of these and offer custom mouthguards for athletes.
At-Home Tips for Parents
- Begin brushing as soon as the first tooth appears using a soft infant toothbrush and a rice-grain-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
- Transition to a pea-sized amount of toothpaste around age 3, and supervise brushing until at least age 7–8.
- Begin flossing when two teeth touch — usually around age 2–3.
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks, especially juice and sports drinks.
- Never put a baby to bed with a bottle of milk, formula, or juice.
- Schedule dental visits every six months starting from the first birthday.
When Should My Child First Visit the Dentist?
The American Dental Association recommends scheduling your child's first dental visit within six months of their first tooth erupting, or by their first birthday — whichever comes first. Early visits set the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles!
Related Services
Questions About Your Child's Care?
We are always happy to answer questions from parents. Give us a call — we would love to help.
(425) 483-9000