New parents have plenty to worry about: making sure their baby is healthy and happy, re-arranging their lives around hectic schedules and lost sleep, and figuring out what to do in all sorts of novel situations. When it comes to your child's oral health, though, there's plenty of help available. It all begins when you bring your youngster in for his or her first visit to the dentist.
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a child's first examination should occur by age one. Surprised? You shouldn't be! Even though there may only be a few baby teeth visible at that age, there are plenty of things to start working on including the development of healthy habits that will make future visits to the dentist far more pleasurable.
Unfortunately, some kids develop tooth decay at an early age. We will be on the lookout for cavities but that's only one reason for an early visit. Equally important is reviewing the proper ways to care for a young child's mouth, going over your child's developmental milestones, and discussing the importance of good oral hygiene.
The way kids seem to pick up on their parents' feelings sometimes seems uncanny; so, if you're nervous about going to the dentist yourself, try not to let it show. Generally, this first visit involves simply talking to you and your child, looking in his or her mouth, and making oral health assessments. It's best to tell your child what to expect beforehand, without making too big a fuss about it. You could even build some excitement by helping them get ready for the big day.
It's a good idea to bring a comforting toy, a snack, and an extra diaper or two, just in case of fussiness. If possible, leave other kids at home, so the new patient can get all the attention. If not possible, bringing another adult along, however, may free your attention to focus on your child's oral health. Likewise, filling out forms in advance may save time and effort on the day of the visit.
When you and your child are comfortably seated in the office, a gentle examination of your child's mouth will be performed to uncover any early signs of dental problems such as tooth decay, and assess the risk that your child may develop the disease in the future. Often, this kind of risk assessment can help prevent and even reverse the early stages of tooth decay, without any drilling.
Finally, various ways to keep your child's oral health in top condition will be discussed. This may include how diet, eating habits and oral hygiene practices can help prevent tooth decay, the most common chronic disease of childhood. That's an important subject for everyone even more so if your child is at greater risk. If any treatments (such as fluoride) are needed, a full explanation will be given. Tips on cleaning and brushing effectively will be reviewed and a follow-up visit will be scheduled as required.
Reviews
Rating 4.9 out of 5 based on 81 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestMaMaS Alisha
a year ago
Hands down the BEST child dentist ever! My sons first dentist, he has a room where the kids watch dinosaur cartoons about going to the dentist. My son was so calm and excited. He went in by himself for dental work and came out happy with a bag of toys. I love this dentist, The office is so beautiful, amazing kids area, coffee, water , fridge, TV, magazines for the adults. I live 45 minutes away and will only go to him for my younger kids dental work. No compliants at all , perfect A+++++ Best #1
Rachelle Damico
2 years ago
This place is a God send! Dr. Delaney explained everything thoroughly and Shannon, the dental hygienist, was great with my 3-year old daughter.
August Fourth
2 years ago
This place is straight from the Heavens! People are excellent with all kids with disabilities and without! We drove from the Saginaw area almost 2 hours and it was completely worth it. It's rare that you find a facility with such compassion and skills to properly care for and service your children's needs. I have 2 autistic children and they were both at complete peace. I will not hesitate to go again and again. 100 thumbs way up!
Tequella Gaiter
2 years ago
If I could give Zero stars I would!!! Dr. Delaney went out of town for a week which is fine but he had a stand in dentist that did not treat pediatric patients when he is a pediatric dentist!!! My son had two composite crowns come off on his front teeth. Dr. Delaney office advised they'd give me a call back to schedule him for a emergency and they did not! I called today 3days into him being back from vacation and they lied and said they had called me to offer me an emergency but I didn't answer and advised they don't leave voicemails. When I stated no one called they then said someone had called but left vmail after advising they don't leave voicemails for emergency visits. I then request Dr. Delaney call me back which was the biggest mistake because he was unbelievably rude from the moment he began to speak. He had no concern in regards to my son issues he never asked anything about my child. He stated my attitude was nasty and I yelled at his staff which was not true because when I called I was at work myself! His staff lies to cover up them not being attentive to my issues! Dr. Delaney was so aggressive and rude it's mind boggling. I do not recommend anyone to go to this office!
Alyssa Ayers
2 years ago
Amazing pediatric dentist office! My kids had so much fun getting their teeth cleaned!
Amanda Pascoe
2 years ago
Always on time and the office is always friendly! We moved farther away and still choose this place over anywhere else. :)
Ben Patrick
2 years ago
nice orthodontist
Jennifer Werthman
2 years ago
Our son had a wonderful experience here! Thank you!!
Trisha Adamski
2 years ago
Today was our first visit to this office, and they were wonderful. The office was clean and all of the staff was super friendly. My daughter was very nervous, and they did everything possible to make her comfortable. You can tell they love kids at this practice. My daughter was in a good mood when she got home and told me all about her experience.
Kristina Molitor
2 years ago
They are ALL wonderful! From the front desk to the doctor! Always reassuring to the children to feel safe and taking the extra time to explain at an age appropriate level. FIVE STARS EVERY TIME!!
Michelle Miller
2 years ago
Dr. Delaney and his staff are incredible. I drive 30 minutes to take my son, and they are worth the drive. My son is a challenge for dental appointments. No other team could take care of my son the way they have.
Kristina Berishaj
2 years ago
Really nice place. Dr Delaney makes the kids feel really comfortable. My three year old had her cavities fixed today and she had no problem that's how nice they are
Janaea Smith
3 years ago
Love this place!!!
Cristie Papa
3 years ago
Great service and friendly staff. They got my daughter in quickly on a cancellation. Dr Delaney was great!
Victoria Arnold
3 years ago
Wonderful, wonderful experience with my 3 year old. I highly recommend this office, especially if your child is hesitant with dentists (like mine). Everyone was incredibly kind, patient, and did everything to make sure it was a positive experience for my child. We won't be going anywhere else from now on!
Amanda Vergin
3 years ago
All of my kids love this place! The staff are always professional, they are wonderful with the children, and always try to work with our schedule as best as possible. I highly recommend for any little children. I can't say enough good things.
Eric Thurston
3 years ago
Overall it was a good experience, the wait was rather long, if we were going to have to wait that long in a waiting room during a pandemic, it would be better to wait in your own vehicle. Some staff had masks only partially on.
Leslie Athmer
3 years ago
The team here was excellent. We have struggled with fear and anxiety for our kiddos at other places and they were wonderful here. Best experience we have had with a Pediatric Dentist.
Miss A
3 years ago
My children have been patients for years and love to visit Dr. Delaney and his associates! They never fall short of exceptional family centered service. I would definitely recommend for parents with children who are afraid to visit the dentist!
Jenifer Moore
3 years ago
Exceptional staff and experience!
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