Dentistry

Your child should first see a dentist whenever his or her first tooth breaks through the skin or by the age of 1. Though this may seem early, by bringing children in at this age, we see the best outcomes for dental health. We can diagnose any dental development issues before they become serious problems. We also help teach parents how to care for their child’s teeth, such as what foods to avoid, when their children should brush their teeth and how to brush a young child’s teeth. These visits can prevent dental problems or complicated surgeries later in a child’s life. In addition, your child can start to get used to the routine of seeing the dentist, making the visits less scary.

Our dentists provide a full range of children’s dental services, including fluoride, sealants, restorations and some orthodontics. We can also provide sedation or general anesthesia for children who are afraid of the dentist or who have special needs such as developmental, emotional, behavioral or cognitive impairments. Anesthesia is also used for procedures that take place in our specialized operating room, where we perform advanced dental procedures. General anesthesia is administered by expert pediatric anesthesiologists from Riley Children's Health.

We collaborate with many departments with Riley Children's Health to offer comprehensive care. We commonly work with ear, nose and throat physicians, ophthalmologists, gastroenterologists, oral surgeons and craniofacial plastic surgeons to manage conditions and improve children’s health. Our dentistry services are available both in the hospital and from outpatient offices. We provide 24/7 emergency coverage to assist children who suffer dental trauma or other emergencies.

We are dedicated to improving children’s dental health through compassionate care, education and research. Our dentists serve as faculty members at the Indiana University School of Dentistry. They conduct research on children’s dental health and teach dental students and graduated dentists (called residents) how to care for children’s unique health needs. Residents get hands-on training in our practices, seeing patients under the supervision of our pediatric dentists.

Your Child's First Appointment

During your child’s first appointment, the dentist will want to know your child's complete medical history and may perform a longer than usual exam. Your child will likely receive X-rays, a teeth cleaning and a fluoride treatment during his or her appointment. If needed, your child will be scheduled for any restorative or orthodontic work such as sealants, crowns or spacers.

Our staff and dentists strive to make you and your child feel comfortable by keeping parents with the children throughout the exam and offering a family-centered, relaxing environment. We understand if children are scared or cry while at the dentist and hope you will not be embarrassed. We will try our hardest to help your child overcome fears and feel calm.

As a parent, you may receive education on your child’s dental health during the appointment. This may include information about brushing habits or what foods to avoid. We encourage you to ask any questions you have about taking care of your child’s teeth. Your child will need to return for a cleaning and exam every six months. Between exams, it is important that you help take care of your child’s dental health by ensuring they brush, floss and eat well.