Joseph Van Mieghem, DDS
Family Dentist located in Lynnwood, WA
For children, going to the dentist can be a frightening experience. At Joseph Van Mieghem DDS in Lynnwood, Washington, the expert team of providers and staff know that kids need special treatment. Whether it’s a routine cleaning or a more complicated procedure, rest assured that your child is in good hands and will leave happy.
Pediatric Dentistry Q&A
How can I prepare my child for the dentist?
It is recommended that a child's first dental cleaning is around age three. However, the first introduction to the dental office can be much earlier.
The child can come in at a parent or sibling's appointment and have a visual exam to check for visible decay. That's an ideal way to acclimate a child to the dental setting before an actual appointment.
How can I keep my child’s teeth and gums clean?
A baby's gums should be cleaned every day with a clean, damp washcloth. Once teeth appear -- around nine months -- they're at risk for decay. Prevention is essential: Clean daily with a soft toothbrush and a rice-sized amount of toothpaste.
To avoid "baby bottle syndrome" don’t put your child to bed with a bottle filled with formula, milk, or juice. When these liquids remain in the mouth and touch the teeth over long periods, they build bacteria which can cause decay. If you must put your child to bed with a bottle, your best option is to fill the bottle with water.
For between-meal snacks, offer your child fruits and vegetables. Avoid sticky foods -- like raisins -- sweets, cookies, and starches. Be sure to brush your child’s teeth before napping and bedtime, so these foods do not remain in the mouth for long periods of time.
As soon as the permanent molars erupt -- around ages six and 12 -- your dentist recommends sealants on the permanent molars. If the tooth already has a filling, then it does not get a dental sealant.
A dental sealant is a plastic coating applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth. Grooves on these back teeth are so narrow that a toothbrush cannot fit into the spaces to remove plaque. Dental sealants prevent dental decay in the grooves. Sealants can provide 100% protection from dental decay or "cavities" on the chewing surfaces.
What should I look for in a pediatric dentist?
At Joseph Van Mieghem DDS a child is never forced into the appointment. It's essential to earn a child’s trust and set the pattern for a lifetime of positive dental experiences. Your child’s dentist should communicate, so the child understands what to expect.
Sometimes, the dentist may not be able to do much, and that's okay. In those cases, your child can wait a few months and try again.
To book an appointment today, you can use the convenient online booking system.