Your child wont keep his or her first teeth forever, but that doesnt mean those tiny, pearly whites dont need conscientious care. Maintaining your childs dental health now will provide health benefits well into adulthood, as primary (baby) teeth serve some extremely important functions.
Primary teeth serve as guides for the eruption of permanent, adult teeth. The crowns, or tops of the permanent teeth actually push against the roots of the baby teeth, causing them to resorb, or melt away. In this way, the adult teeth can take their proper place
Whats more, your childs primary teeth will be there for most of childhood, helping your child to bite, chew and speak. For the first six or so years, he or she will be relying on primary teeth exclusively to perform these important functions. Until around age 12, your child will have a mix of primary and permanent teeth. You will want to make sure those teeth stay healthy and are lost naturally when its time. Your childs 20 baby teeth will begin to appear usually between six and nine months, though in some cases it may start as early as three months or as late as twelve months.
The two lower front teeth tend to erupt first, followed by the two upper ones. The first molars come in next, followed by the canines (eyeteeth). Sometimes your baby can experience teething discomfort during this process. If so, there are courses of action to help make your child more comfortable.
Your infants gums and newly erupting teeth should be gently wiped after each feeding with a water-soaked gauze pad or damp washcloth. Starting at age 2, when there are more teeth in the mouth, establish a daily brushing routine with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and no more than a thin smear of fluoridated toothpaste. Your child may need your help with this important task until about the age of 6.
I had a great first experience here! Everyone was amazing, professional, and made me feel comfortable. Jennifer was my hygienist and I could not have asked for a better one. Everyone in the office was top notch. I know I will be continuing my visits there and recommending them. Thank you!
Such sweet dental hygienists, big open windows, very gentle, and knowledgeable enough to explain things to me on my x-rays. I will definitely be going back!! The doctor was awesome, but it's the dental hygienist who spends the most time with you cleaning your teeth, so they make or break a dental office for me
Im originally from Wilmot, AR and a graduate of Hamburg High School. I went to the University of Arkansas and received my BS in Microbiology. I then attended Louisiana State University obtaining my DDS degree. Since graduating from dental school, Ive been fortunate to practice in several very successful dental offices. I feel that my experience allows me to serve patients with the utmost care. I learned from some of the best. I feel like I incorporate the best of it all into your visit at our office. Your visit with us is personal. We want to get to know you. Too many times in the past 20 plus years I have heard and witnessed how much people hate going to the dentist. My daily goal is to create an atmosphere that is open, fun and personal. Our staff will do anything that we can to make your dental visits as comfortable as possible.
On a personal note, I am married to Cody, and we have three children, Tully, Lindy, and Jolee. They keep us entertained and busy. On the weekends, you can either find us at a sporting event or enjoy time outdoors. We also like to spend time with our two dogs. Shooter is a Weimaraner, and Sparkle Shimmer Shine is a Catahoula mix.
Hello, my name is Melissa. I am married to my best friend and we have 2 awesome sons. When not at work, we enjoy the outdoors with lots of camping and boating on our beautiful Arkansas lakes. I have 27 years experience in the dental field to include being a chair-side Registered Dental Assistant and office manager. I absolutely love working beside Dr. Gildon. There is not a dentist who is more genuine than her. The standard of care given by Dr. Gildon and our staff goes beyond treating our patients like family. We look forward to taking care of all your dental needs here at Forest Heights Dental.
My passion has been dentistry for over 25 years. I am a proud graduate of UAMS where I completed my BS in Dental Hygiene. I also obtained my graduate degree in education from UALR in 2018. I look forward to building relationships with my patients and helping them achieve optimal oral health. Although not originally from AR, I have been a hillcrest resident for over 20 years and I love working in my own neighborhood at FHD. I have a teenage daughter, a fianc, a cat, and backyard chickens! When not working, I enjoy time with my family, relaxation, and good food!
I am a graduate of UAMS with a BS in Dental Hygiene, 1985.My career spans over 35 years and I wouldnt trade a single day. I love what I do, the friends that Ive made and the lessons Ive learned. My family is my son Sam, his wife Shelby, and my beautiful granddaughter Katherine. I added a cat, Tucker last year.
I have been with Dr. Gildon since 2017. Ive learned and continue to learn so much from her and this practice. There is no place id rather be than here at Forest Heights Dental. Dr. Gildon and our staff care deeply about our patients and their needs being met and making them as comfortable as possible.
