(503) 538-7358         200 N. Edwards St., Newberg, OR  97132

Dentistry for Kids

What to Expect at the First Visit

A child’s first visit to the dentist should be positive.  Children are not born with a fear of the dentist, but they can fear the unknown.  Our staff uses pleasant, simple words to describe your child’s first dental visit and treatment. We want you both to feel at ease from the moment your family arrives at our office.

When New Teeth Arrive

Your child’s first tooth erupts between ages 6-12 months and the remainder of their 20 primary (or baby) teeth typically erupt by age 3. During this time, gums may feel tender and sore, causing your child to feel irritable. To help alleviate this discomfort, we recommend that you soothe the gums by rubbing a clean finger or a cool, wet cloth across them. You may also choose to use a teething ring.

Your child’s permanent teeth begin erupting at age 6 and continue until age 21. Adults have 28 permanent teeth, or 32 including wisdom teeth.

Healthy Oral Hygiene Habits

Sugary foods and liquids can attack new teeth, so take care that your child brushes their teeth in the morning and at night.  Brushing can be fun, and your child should brush as soon as the first tooth arrives.  When a baby’s tooth erupts, parents should brush the tooth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of toothpaste.

Flossing is also a part of good oral hygiene habits, and Dr. Brecke will discuss with you the right time to start flossing. If you notice signs of decay, contact our office.

Preventing Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is preventable.  Tooth decay is caused by sugars left in your mouth that turn into an acid, which can break down teeth.  Children are at high risk for tooth decay for a simple reason — many children and adolescents tend to be lax in their oral hygiene habits.  Proper brushing and flossing routines combined with regular dental visits and a low-sugar diet help keep tooth decay at bay.

Your child should visit the dentist every 6 months for regular dental cleanings and checkups.  We recommend fluoride treatments twice a year along with cleanings to keep teeth their strongest.  We also recommend tooth sealants because they seal the deep grooves in your child’s teeth, preventing decay from forming in these hard-to-reach areas.  Sealants last for several years and will be monitored at your regular checkups.

Most importantly, good oral hygiene can be maintained through good dietary habits.  Juices and sodas wreak havoc in your mouth and the rest of your body.  Please limit these treats to special occasions, and teach your children that healthy eating is important to life-long happiness.