A pediatric dentist is one who has limited their practice exclusively to the treatment of children and adolescents. Drs. Schreiber and Thomas have completed four years of dental school and two years postdoctoral training in the care of children and their special needs.

A major emphasis is placed on the total development of the child, including his or her psychological and dental well-being. Growth and development of the teeth and mouth, child psychology and treatment of the chronically ill and handicapped children are all aspects of this extended training. Many parents select a children’s dentist just as they would a pediatrician, to assure that their child has the benefit of this additional experience.

A child’s first visit to the dentist is the most important step in assuring your child’s future dental health. We try to make this a favorable experience, eliminating the “fear of dentistry” by providing a pleasant environment and a devoted staff resulting in a positive dental attitude.

Our office is designed to make your child feel more comfortable and relaxed. We hope to alleviate some of the fear normally associated with the new and the unknown. Our treatment area is open, with all the chairs in one large room where the children can see and be seen by the dentist at all times.

Our staff is trained to explain each procedure in terms that your child can understand. Even with these precautions, a child may become anxious on the first visit. Allow us the privilege of working with your child to overcome this apprehension and watch your child grow to enjoy this new dental experience.

We feel that your child should be the center of attention to gain maximum benefit from the first visit. Both of you will be invited to talk with Dr. Schreiber or Dr. Thomas, after which she or he will accompany your child to the treatment area. Cooperation and trust must be established with the child in order to provide the best possible relationship.

Most children respond more positively when separated from the parent after age 3, unless you feel that there is a physical or psychological problem. Please help us to instill in your child a positive dental attitude and ensure a pleasant dental experience. Your child’s treatment will be discussed after each visit.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that your child should be evaluated by a dentist by age 1 or when the first tooth erupts. This is recommended in order to help prevent future dental problems.

Children’s first or baby teeth are important and play a major role in a child’s development. Healthy baby teeth are used for:

• Chewing and proper digestion of food

• Developing proper speech

• Appearance and self-esteem

• Preservation of space and guidance for the permanent teeth

Obviously, if your child injures their mouth or develops pain in association with a tooth, please call and bring your child in immediately. We always have time to see your child in an emergency situation.

The first visit is intended to introduce the child to our dental office and team. Our goal is to earn the trust and confidence of your child. We will include the following services:

• Cleaning – to remove stains, food and bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease

• Fluoride – to strengthen the teeth and help them resist decay

• Examination – of the mouth and teeth, including any needed X-rays to detect and prevent problems

• Consultation – to discuss your child’s dental health and answer questions you may have

If treatment is necessary, your child’s needs will be discussed and a series of appointments will be arranged so that the teeth can be restored to a healthy condition.

We will instruct you and your child in the most current preventive techniques. Brushing, flossing, and diet counseling will be discussed. We use interceptive and preventive orthodontics methods to allow your child’s teeth to grow in as straight as possible; however, braces may be needed in some cases.

As the permanent molars erupt, we may recommend the placement of sealants to protect the chewing surfaces of the teeth to help prevent decay.

If your child should injure a tooth, please call the office immediately. We can decide if treatment is needed. If a tooth is knocked out, place it in a cup of milk and bring your child and the tooth to the office at once. Other injuries, such as a loose or broken tooth, should be seen but the time is not as urgent.

Prevention is still the best medicine and can reduce the number and severity of accidents. Wearing seat belts when traveling, providing mouthguards for contact sports and obeying safety precautions when running and playing can help prevent injury. Consider removing low tables or chairs that your toddler might bump into when falling.