Pediatric Dentistry

Clear LifeTime Dental Care prides themselves on their gentle touch and their special way with making children comfortable.  The dedicated staff loves children and are trained to help your child feel comfortable at their dental appointment.  Dr. Clear will teach and motivate your children the best way to take care of their teeth.  They will learn that spending time with Dr. Clear can be a fun rewarding experience!

Should you choose a Pediatric Dentist?

Has your son or daughter ever wished that they could stay longer at the dentist? It may seem impossible to you but we pride ourselves on our gentle touch and special way with kids. Our dedicated staff and pediatric specialists love children and are specially trained to make sure your child feels comfortable and at ease. We teach children the right way to take care of their teeth and they learn that going to the dentist can be a fun experience.

Can you tell me more about a Pediatric Dentist?

Much like pediatricians are trained to meet children’s medical needs, our pediatric dental professionals are uniquely qualified to help keep your child in good oral health by using the most up to date techniques, all while they enjoy our friendly open treatment area. Pediatric dentists have to undertake an additional two to three years of focused training at university pediatric facilities on top of the required four years of dental school and four years of college study. They are instructed on how to deal with the behavioral needs of children, what helps them feel comfortable, and how to provide an enjoyable experience. They are also qualified and instructed on how to treat children with special needs.

What dental problems could my child have?

Some dental difficulties can begin very early in life. A major concern is tooth decay at an early age which can become a serious condition caused by a child staying on the bottle (or breast) too long. Another complication is gum disease. Around 40 percent of children from the ages of two to three have some form of mild inflammation of their gum tissues. Oral habits (for example digit sucking) should also be looked at. The earlier a child visits a pediatric dentist, the better the chances of preventing future oral complications.  Strong, healthy teeth not only help your child chew food easily and speak clearly but also help them feel good about his or her smile.

Should baby teeth be treated the same as adult teeth?

Primary teeth help with proper chewing and eating, speech development, and add to a good-looking appearance. Children who can chew easily, speak clearly, and smile confidently are happier. Strong primary teeth allow for the jaw bones and muscles to develop healthily and help permanent teeth grow comfortably into place. If a child loses a primary tooth too soon, his or her permanent teeth may grow in crooked and lead to expensive oral treatments later in life. Decayed baby teeth can cause pain, abscesses, and infections which can spread to their permanent teeth. Your child's general health may also be affected if diseased baby teeth aren't treated in a timely fashion. Remember, some primary molars aren’t replaced until the ages of 10 to14, so these baby teeth need to last for years.

How should I prepare my child for their first visit ?

With excitement like any other adventure!  Like a first haircut or a trip to a new place, there is not too much you need to say or do.  If you enlighten children with all of your experiences at the dental office,  their huge imaginations will freak them out nearly beyond repair.  The children who are the least prepared have the most fun at the dental office.  The biggest aid is to bring your children to your easy, short appointments so they get to know and recognize Dr. Clear and her staff.  The office itself becomes a place they know.  Dr. Clear and her staff will say hello, they may even read them a book.  By the time it is their turn to be seen for a dental exam and cleaning they just might be begging for their turn!  Dr. Clear will be sure to introduce your child to her special dental toys and how she is going to use them.  Just let your child know it is time for them to go play with Dr. Clear for awhile.

Does my child need to receive preventative dental care?

Early childhood and tooth decay no longer have to go hand in hand. At our office, we focus on all aspects of preventive oral care. We use the latest in sealant technology to shield your child's teeth. Sealants are bonded to the chewing surfaces of back teeth to prevent them from developing plaque buildup which can lead to tooth decay. This is just one of the many ways we will set the foundation for your child's good oral health for the rest of their life.