Family dentistry for every stage of life

Babies and young children

The American Dental Association recommends a child's first dental visit within six months of the first tooth appearing, and no later than the first birthday. Baby teeth matter: they help children chew and speak, and they hold space for adult teeth.

• Wipe gums with a clean, damp cloth before teeth appear.
• Once teeth arrive, brush twice a day with a rice-grain-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste; move to a pea-sized amount around age 3.
• Don't put a baby to bed with a bottle of milk or juice.
• Help with brushing until your child can do it well on their own.

Early visits focus on checking development, spotting early decay and helping children feel comfortable.

School-age children

Adult molars usually start coming in around age six. Their deep grooves can trap food and bacteria, so this is a common time for cavities to start.

• Sealants on back teeth can help protect grooves from decay.
• Fluoride, from toothpaste and, where recommended, professional applications, strengthens enamel.
• Keep sugary drinks and snacks to mealtimes where possible.
• A checkup can also flag bite or spacing concerns early.

Teenagers

Busy schedules, snacking, sports drinks and braces can all make teens more prone to cavities and gum inflammation.

• A sports mouthguard for contact sports and activities with fall risk.
• Extra care cleaning around braces or other orthodontic appliances.
• Wisdom teeth monitoring in the later teen years.
• Honest conversations about vaping and tobacco, which affect gum health.

Adults

Adult dental needs often center on keeping existing teeth strong: maintaining older fillings, protecting cracked teeth with crowns, and preventing gum disease.

• Stress can lead to clenching and grinding; a night guard may help.
• Pregnancy can make gums more prone to inflammation; dental care during pregnancy is generally safe and recommended.
• Replacing missing teeth with implants, bridges or dentures when needed.

Older adults

Many people keep their natural teeth for life, but aging brings its own challenges.

• Dry mouth, often a side effect of medications, raises the risk of decay.
• Receding gums can expose root surfaces that decay more easily.
• Dentures may need adjusting or relining as the mouth changes.
• Arthritis or limited mobility can make brushing and travel harder; a mobile visit can help.

Caregivers and family members

If you're calling on behalf of a parent, child or someone you care for, that's welcome. Tell us about any mobility limitations or special needs when you call so the visit can be planned around them.

The dentist will need to see the patient in person, and a parent or guardian should be with children during the visit.