There is nothing more important in dentistry than early intervention. Children are not healthy if their mouths aren’t healthy. Left untreated, dental disease can be intensely painful, costly and lead to other serious lifelong health complications. Our approach is one of managing a disease – well before it manifests itself in the form of a cavity. The role of physicians in prevention and management of early childhood caries is an important one. In the years ahead, healthcare providers from all branches of medicine will play a critical part in identification of children at the greatest risk of disease.

We believe in making the transition to manage the disease before it devastates the mouth and potentially beyond. With so much more being discovered each day connecting the mouth to the body, early intervention becomes ever more important. By encouraging parents, families and all who encounter the youngest children to ask questions about the child’s oral health alongside their total health, we will provide the answers that will lead to solutions that are effective.

Tips to parents
• If you are fearful or anxious about seeing a dentist, ask a family member or friend to come with you and your child to the dentist appointment
• Talk to your child about going to the dentist. Use words your child will understand and a positive or neutral tone of voice. Avoid using terms like “shot” or “drill”
• Read a “visit to the dentist” picture book together – libraries and bookstores offer many good choices
• Try to schedule the appointment at a time that will not disrupt your child’s nap or meal times
• We encourage you to ask all the questions you like so we can best meet the needs of your child