Children's dentistry in Springfield
Friendly dental care for your kids.
We welcome children ages 3 and up, and we do what we can to make every visit a friendly one. Healthy habits that start early can last a lifetime.
Care for the whole family
We welcome patients of all ages, including children ages 3 and up. Dr. Buzbee treats children, and because we see patients of every age, your child may visit us for their whole life.
Children's dentistry is much the same as general dentistry. We do almost the same things for your child as we do for adults, including cleanings, exams, fillings, and crowns.
We do not treat patients under the age of two. If you have a younger child, we are happy to talk with you about how to clean young teeth and answer your questions.
Making visits comfortable
We aim to keep every visit friendly. On the first visit, we give your child a tour of the office and let them play with the dental instruments so they can feel at ease.
You are welcome to bring your child in before an actual treatment visit to meet the team and see the office. Dr. Buzbee can walk children through, show them the equipment, and explain what happens during a visit.
We use technology such as digital x-rays, intra-oral cameras, and laser dentistry. If your child deals with fear or anxiety, sedation dentistry is available.
What your child's visit includes
After your child is comfortable, we take x-rays and examine their mouth for any current problems, or ones that may develop later, including a possible need for braces. If there is a cavity or another issue, we identify it and complete the treatment as soon as possible, which may help your child avoid pain or more involved treatment later. We also check how your child cares for their teeth. If they are not brushing or flossing well, we show them the proper way and talk with you about keeping an eye on their habits.
Sealants are thin plastic coatings painted onto the chewing surfaces of the molars. They bond to the grooves of the teeth and form a protective shield over the enamel, and we recommend them for all children during the early years, when cavities are more likely. After the cleaning, we usually give a fluoride treatment for extra cavity protection.
Orthodontic treatment usually begins in late childhood, once most of the adult teeth have come in and it is clear that crooked or crowded teeth will not correct themselves. Braces or Invisalign are the options.
Healthy habits at home
Before the first tooth comes in, you can clean your child's gums with a soft, damp cloth. Once teeth appear, a small brush with soft bristles works well, and your child should rinse and spit after brushing. An electric toothbrush can help children brush for the full two minutes.
Baby teeth are not permanent, but they set the stage for the permanent teeth. If one is lost early, nearby teeth can crowd in and the permanent teeth may come in out of place. Baby teeth also help your child bite and chew properly.
Offer juice or milk only with meals, and make water the drink for sipping through the day. If your child has something sugary, have them rinse with water or brush afterward.
Is this right for me?
Children's dentistry may be a good fit if you:
- Have a child who is 3 or older and ready for a first visit
- Want to start regular checkups every six months
- Have a child who feels nervous about the dentist
- Would like help teaching your child to brush and floss
- Have questions about caring for a younger child's teeth
- Wonder whether your child may need braces someday
What to expect
Your visit, step by step.
- A tour of the office, with time for your child to play with the dental instruments.
- X-rays and an exam of your child's mouth to look for any current or possible future problems.
- A check of your child's brushing and flossing, with a lesson if they need one.
- Sealants on the molars and a fluoride treatment.
- A new toothbrush, floss, toothpaste, and a prize for being brave, with the next exam scheduled before you leave.
Questions we hear
Children's dentistry FAQs
When should my child first see the dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the American Dental Association recommend a first dental visit by a child's first birthday. We welcome children at our office from age 3, and we are happy to talk with you about caring for the teeth of a younger child.
What happens at the first visit?
We start with a tour of the office and let your child play with the dental instruments. Then we take x-rays and examine their mouth, check how they brush and floss, and usually finish with sealants and a fluoride treatment. Your child leaves with a new toothbrush, floss, toothpaste, and a prize for being brave.
How often should my child visit?
We recommend every six months. Regular visits help your child build a positive relationship with the dentist, which may help them avoid a fear of dental visits, and they let us catch problems early.
Do baby teeth really matter?
Yes. Baby teeth set the stage for the proper development of permanent teeth, and if one is lost early, nearby teeth can crowd in. Teeth that are not cared for can develop cavities, which can lead to pain, infection, and swelling.
What if my child is nervous or cries?
Crying is a normal reaction to the unknown, and our team is trained to help fearful children. It can help to avoid words like needle, shot, or drill when you describe the visit, and to stay positive yourself, since children often pick up on a parent's fear. Sedation dentistry is available for children who deal with fear or anxiety.
Which Halloween candy is risky for kids with braces?
Sticky and hard treats are the biggest concern. Caramel and taffy can get stuck on braces, gum can bend wires, and hard candy or lollipops can damage braces. Chocolate tends to be the least risky choice, and a cleaning after the holiday is a good idea.
Ready when you are
Let’s make your next visit something to smile about.
New patients are welcome. Call us or send a request, and we will help you take the next comfortable step.
Request an appointment