Children's Dentistry in Stockton, CA

Earlier than most parents expect

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children see a dentist within six months after their first tooth erupts, or before the first birthday. That timing surprises most families, who assume a first visit belongs somewhere around preschool.

The recommendation is deliberate, and it has less to do with treating teeth than with establishing habits and catching problems while they are still small. Your child’s first visit explains what that appointment involves and why the timing is set so early.

Dr. Van Sicklen takes pride in providing highly personalized service, assessing each child’s situation individually and discussing the most appropriate treatment options with parents.

Baby teeth matter more than their lifespan suggests

The most common misconception in children’s dentistry is that a tooth destined to fall out is not worth treating. Primary teeth hold space for the permanent teeth beneath them, guide those teeth into position, and do the work of chewing and speech in the meantime.

When one is lost early, the neighbouring teeth drift into the gap within months and the permanent tooth arrives to find its place taken. That single mechanism is the most frequent reason a space maintainer becomes necessary, and it is why early orthodontic evaluation is part of routine children’s care rather than a separate specialism.

Building a patient, not just treating one

A child whose early appointments are unhurried and explained tends to become an adult who books their check-ups. That is, over a lifetime, the most valuable thing pediatric dentistry produces.

Your child’s first visit is largely an examination and a conversation. Young children are often examined on a parent’s lap rather than alone in the chair, and nothing uncomfortable is introduced at a first appointment if it can be avoided.

Each preventive visit afterward begins with oral hygiene instruction, including showing children and their parents the specific areas being missed at home. Almost every child brushes; considerably fewer brush the surfaces that actually collect plaque, and being shown the difference in their own mouth changes technique in a way that general advice does not.

Preventive treatments, shared with our general practice

Two treatments do most of the protective work for children, and both are covered in depth on our general dentistry pages rather than duplicated here.

Dental sealants are a protective coating placed in the grooves of the permanent molars, preventing bacteria and debris from collecting on chewing surfaces where a toothbrush cannot reach. Sealants are not 100% effective at preventing cavities, but they greatly reduce the risk.

Fluoride treatment strengthens enamel and promotes re-mineralisation. There are guidelines governing its use, and fluorosis, a condition that weakens enamel, can occur if fluoride is overused, so we assess the individual needs of each patient when making recommendations.

X-rays and restorations for children

Imaging for children is decided per patient rather than on a fixed schedule, so that exposure is kept to what is genuinely needed. The reasoning is set out under children’s preventive care, and the types of image and shielding involved on our dental X-rays page.

When a tooth does need treatment, we always choose the most aesthetically pleasing material when restoring permanent or baby teeth. There are many options available, and we are happy to discuss the pros and cons of each and make the final decision together.

If your child has an accident

Chipped and knocked-out teeth are common in childhood. A knocked-out baby tooth is generally not replanted, because that can damage the developing permanent tooth beneath it, so call the office rather than assuming it will resolve itself. See emergency dentistry or call (209) 951-3436.

To book your child’s visit, request an appointment or call (209) 951-3436.