Pediatric Dentist – Waco, TX
Helping Young Smiles Start Healthy Oral Habits
Smiles of all ages need skilled attention, especially when they’re still growing. Here at Dental Station, we love seeing the littlest members of your family! Dr. Wendy Winarick and her team understand what an overwhelming experience visiting the dentist can be for children, which is why we do everything we can to create a fun and friendly atmosphere for them. Better yet, our gentle pediatric services will protect and strengthen their smile, allowing them to start on the path towards lifelong oral health.
Preventive Attention
Regular check-ups with our team are important for your child not just because it allows us to find areas of decay and damage that need attention, but also because the development of their smile may need some extra help. It’s important for Dr. Winarick to locate these concerns at the earliest stage possible; treatment can be simpler and more comfortable for your child, saving them from a smile that is significantly abnormal in either health or aesthetics. We’ll always take your child’s age and unique personality into account when providing this care so that they have a gentle, relaxing experience.
Your Child’s First Visit
You can begin bringing your child to our office when they are about one year old or within six months of their first tooth erupting. At this early age, we’ll spend most of the appointment simply interacting with your child so that they become familiar with our team and office. We’ll perform a quick, gentle oral exam to make sure they are free from decay or other issues, and we can also answer any questions you may have about your child’s oral development and ways to keep their teeth healthy at home. As they continue to become comfortable with us, we can add dental cleanings into their appointments and help teach them proper oral care as well.
Dental Sealants
Some teeth in your smile can have deep pits and grooves that trap dangerous bacteria, hiding it in an area that can be difficult to reach – especially for children who are still learning proper oral hygiene techniques. Our Waco team can provide some extra protection for children from Hewitt, Woodway, Lorena, West, and beyond with dental sealants. This tough, plastic material is painted directly onto the chewing surfaces of back teeth, molars, and other areas that may be sensitive to decay, and they can significantly lessen your son or daughter’s chances of having cavities.
Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride is a substance that has been shown to strengthen teeth and increase their resistance to decay over time. In the past, nearly all patients received enough daily fluoride by drinking tap water; however, the rise of bottled water in popularity has left enamel much more vulnerable. Dr. Winarick can provide young patients with regular applications of fluoride so as to bolster their smile, protecting it from damage.
Benefits of Seeing a Pediatric Dentist
Believe it or not, there is a difference between a pediatric dentist and a family-friendly dentist. Although a general dentist can provide care for children, they may not have the same skills that a pediatric dentist does. A pediatric dentist has advanced training specifically in pediatrics and certification with the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. When you choose Dental Station, you get the benefit of having a pediatric specialist, who can identify and treat problems that are specific to children.
Daily Oral Care at Home
As important as your child’s visits to the pediatric dentist are for their oral health, it’s equally as critical that they learn how to take care of their smiles through daily oral habits. Even before your child’s first tooth comes in, you can help their oral health by using a damp washcloth to gently massage their gums after feedings, wiping away bacteria. As soon as their teeth start coming in, brush them at least twice every day and try to floss too. When they are older and are able to spit out, you may be able to start using toothpaste with fluoride in it. Just make sure they don’t swallow it.
Is your child due for a dental visit? Bring them to Dental Station! We can’t wait to get to know them and help them keep their precious smile beautiful and healthy for many years to come. Contact our team to schedule their appointment today!