Infant Oral Health Care in Northborough, MA
The sooner we see your child, the sooner we can help start them on the road to a lifetime of excellent oral health. At Children's Dentistry of Northborough, we agree with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry's recommendation that your child’s first visit should take place by age one.
This may seem early, and you may wonder what problems your child could possibly have when they’re only a year old. The fact is that we don’t want to wait until your child develops a problem. Seeing them when their teeth first begin to emerge allows us to detect any potential issues and take the steps to prevent them from harming your child’s future oral health.
Your Child's First Visit with Our Dentist
We understand that the first visit can be a little overwhelming – especially for mom and dad! You’ll be happy to know that we completely understand your feelings and welcome you to stay with your child during the visit.
There are two primary goals for your child’s first few dental visits. One is to spend time with you and your child to establish a comfortable relationship that allows us to get to know each other. The second is to educate you about the steps you can take to promote your child’s oral health. We will talk about a healthy diet, proper home dental care, and the importance of continuing preventive care.
The Dental Exam and Recommendations
First, we will review your medical history and our hygienist will perform a caries risk assessment, Then our doctor will gently examine your child’s teeth, identify problems, and review the findings with you. In some cases, we may recommend digital x-rays or intraoral photos to get a clear picture of what’s going on in your child’s mouth.
After the exam, we will explain our treatment recommendations and answer any questions you may have. We often use a technique called “tell-show-do” where we show and explain to your child how we clean their teeth. If they are ready, we will polish their teeth and apply a topical fluoride varnish.
Contact Our Experienced Pediatric Dentists in Northborough
At Children’s Dentistry of Northborough, our focus is on treating children. You can be assured that your child’s oral health is in the hands of caring professionals who are specially trained to respond to his or her unique needs. Each of our dentists invests numerous hours in continuing education to bring your child the absolute best that pediatric dentistry has to offer.
Our entire team understands the value of exceptional oral health for your child. But we also know that the best way for your child to view dental visits as a positive experience is to provide them with a fun, friendly environment. Everything about our office is designed to help kids feel good about their dental care.
We are in-network providers for BC/BS PPO, Delta Premier, Delta PPO, Dental Blue Guardian, and Altus, but we also accept many other out-of-network plans. Please call for more information, and a helpful member of our team will be happy to answer your questions.
Is it time to schedule your child’s first dental visit? Please give us a call at (508) 393-9394, and we’ll be happy to make a convenient appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Thumb sucking and pacifier use are as common as cute baby coos. These habits provide comfort and security for little ones, helping them soothe themselves and regulate their emotions. However, parents often worry about the potential impact on their baby's developing smile. The good news is that in moderation, thumb sucking and pacifiers are generally safe.
The key lies in duration and intensity. While occasional thumb sucking or pacifier use is unlikely to cause problems, prolonged and forceful sucking can affect the alignment of your baby's teeth and jaw. Early intervention is key!
At Children's Dentistry of Northborough, our experienced dentist in Northborough can assess your baby's oral development and advise you on the best course of action. If necessary, we can guide gentle weaning strategies to help your baby transition away from these habits before any lasting effects occur. Weaning can be a gradual process, and our team will be here to support you every step of the way. If you're searching for a 'pediatric dentist near me,' book an appointment today!
Follow the AAPD Recommendations
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a child has their first dental visit by the age of one. It is a great way to get your child on the right path of dental care and to establish a dental home.
Your Child's First Dental Visit
A child's first visit to our children's dentist in Northborough, MA includes an oral exam of teeth and soft tissues, along with parent education to help your child get the best possible start. Dr. Jolanta Macdonald, DMD and her team will provide guidance on home care, nutrition habits, fluoride, and injury prevention. At this age, we do not expect your child to be fully cooperative. We will most likely have your child sit on your lap for a dental exam and a fluoride varnish.
Setting Your Child Up For a Lifetime of Dental Health
We want your child to see dental care as a positive experience right from the first visit. This improves their chances of enjoying a lifetime of healthy habits and the best possible oral health. Our team is highly experienced in providing children with the gentle care they need to feel safe and secure.
If it’s time for your child’s first visit or you just have questions about your child’s dental care, please contact our dentist office. If you're looking for a 'pediatric dentist near me,' we are here to help!
Brushing your baby’s first teeth is just as important as caring for adult ones. The moment your baby’s first tooth erupts, it’s time to start brushing twice a day. Early dental care builds healthy habits and helps prevent cavities, even in baby teeth.
Establishing a Baby Teeth Brushing Schedule
Pediatric dentists recommend brushing your baby’s teeth morning and night, using a soft-bristled brush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste. This routine removes harmful bacteria and prevents plaque from forming on those new teeth.
Building Your Baby’s Oral Health Habits
Starting early also sets the stage for lifelong oral health. As your child grows, you can gradually increase toothpaste amounts and teach them to brush independently. Sticking to a consistent baby teeth brushing schedule helps make brushing a normal part of your child’s daily routine.
Of course, don’t forget: regular dental visits are also key. A trusted professional for baby dental care in Northborough, MA, can guide you through each stage of your child’s dental development.
Laying the Foundation for Healthy Smiles in Northborough, MA
If you’re in Northborough and looking for a caring and compassionate dentist to help guide you and your young ones through the vital stages of their dental development, contact Dr. Craig Macdonald and the Children's Dentist of Northborough team to schedule an appointment
Meet Our Doctors:
Jolanta Macdonald DMD
Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Jolanta Macdonald graduated cum laude (with high honors), earning her Bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology from Colgate University in 1996. She then attended the University of Connecticut School of Dental ...
Craig Macdonald DMD
General Dentist
Dr. Craig Macdonald joined our practice in 2011 and works with us on some Fridays and Saturdays to offer general dentistry services to our teen and adult patients. Dr. Macdonald ...
Anita Bhatt DMD, MDS
Orthodontist
Dr. Bhatt has been practicing in Westboro since 2000. She received her Doctor of Medical Dentistry degree from the Tufts University of Dental Medicine in Boston, Massachusetts, before earning both ...
Featured Blog Posts - Infant Oral Health Care
Infant Oral Care Myths vs. Facts: Essential Insights for Parents in Northborough, MA
When it comes to caring for your baby’s smile, it’s all too easy for parents to find conflicting advice. At Children’s Dentistry of Northborough, Dr. Jolanta Macdonald and our caring team help families sort through infant dental care myths and provide reliable, evidence-based guidance for lifelong oral health.
Here are a ...
At What Age Should Your Child See a Pediatric Dentist? A Northborough Parent’s Guide
As a parent, you want your children to have every advantage—including a lifetime of optimal oral health. But when is the right time to schedule their first visit to a pediatric dentist?
Many parents think they should wait until all baby teeth come in. The reality is that a proactive approach ...
Brushing an Infant’s Teeth: When to Start and How to Do It
As a parent in Northborough, MA, ensuring your child's oral health is a top priority. At Children's Dentistry of Northborough, we understand that taking care of your child's teeth from an early age is essential for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Here, we'll discuss when to start brushing your infant's ...