Pediatric Dentistry
Pediatric dentistry plays a crucial role in ensuring children develop healthy dental habits from a young age. By starting dental care early, parents can help prevent future issues like cavities and gum disease, while also fostering a positive attitude toward dental visits. At Faber Dental Arts, we work closely with both children and parents to educate them on the importance of maintaining good oral health, setting the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Dr. Faber is proud to offer a comprehensive range of pediatric dental services tailored to meet the needs of families. Our services include routine check-ups, cleanings, fluoride treatments, and more specialized care, all aimed at maintaining and improving your child's oral health. We also offer services for your child's first dental visit, ensuring dedicated care early on.
We are committed to creating a welcoming and comfortable environment for children, ensuring that each visit is a positive experience and helping families achieve optimal dental health for their little ones.
When to Plan Your Child’s First Dental Visit
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children see the dentist for the first time within one year of birth or after their first tooth comes in. After their first visit, regular exams are recommended every six months as they grow. This not only allows Dr. Faber to examine their teeth and gums but helps to ensure a lifetime of good oral health habits.
During a child's first dental visit, parents can expect a warm and inviting atmosphere designed to make their little one feel at ease. Dr. Faber will likely perform a gentle examination of your child's teeth and gums to assess their development and overall oral health. He may also discuss important oral hygiene practices with parents and answer any questions they might have about their child's dental care. By focusing on creating a positive experience, we aim to set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Pediatric Dental Services
From infants to adolescents, we perform early childhood exams and educate children and parents on good oral health. Dr. Faber will take the time to help your child feel at ease and even let them choose their own free toothbrush to take home!
In addition to initial dental visits, some of the most common pediatric dental issues we offer guidance and treatment for include:
Babies may start getting their first teeth at as early as six months of age. Some infants experience discomfort as their teeth begin to come in and break through their gums. Teething may cause excess drooling, irritability, sleeplessness, and loss of appetite in your child. Some infants may also rub their ears or cheeks in discomfort.
Dr. Faber can offer guidance and suggest relief strategies to help soothe your child, providing reassurance and advice if there are concerns about the teething process.
Cavities are caused by tooth decay and are more common among children than adults. Tooth decay can occur for various reasons, including plaque formation, food choices, the use of fluoride, poor oral hygiene, heredity, and certain medical conditions.
We are happy to address cavities in children by providing fillings and detailed patient education, allowing your child the opportunity to prevent future cavities from forming.
Thumb sucking is a natural reflex for babies and young children. They often suck on their thumb, pacifier, or other objects as a way to relax, fall asleep, explore the world, or for security. Children usually stop sucking their thumbs between the ages of two and four years old.
Thumb sucking can influence jaw formation, alter bite patterns, and cause the front teeth to come in crooked. Dr. Faber is happy to provide parents with guidance to stop thumb sucking before issues arise.
Malocclusion is the dental term for a “bite problem”. Ideally, your upper and lower teeth should fit together to form an accurate bite, and your teeth should be straight and equally spaced. That being said, everyone has some degree of malocclusion.
Should you find that your child is having bite problems, we encourage you to see Dr. Faber. He will be happy to examine your child's bite and provide you with the resources you need to correct their bite and prevent future problems.
Mouth guards are protective coverings worn over the teeth that can provide protection to a child’s mouth, teeth, tongue, and gums during contact or impact sports. There are several types of mouth guards available depending on the patient’s needs. We can help you choose the most appropriate mouth guard for your child, ensuring their smile stays protected.
Gentle Pediatric Dentistry in Ottawa, IL
It is never too early to create a healthy smile for life. Let Dr. Faber and the dental team at Faber Dental Arts provide your family with high-quality, personalized dental care. To schedule your child’s initial or routine pediatric dental visit with Dr. Faber, call us at (815) 433-1242 or request an appointment using our secure appointment request form. We look forward to helping your child keep their smile healthy and vibrant!
