Family Dental Care in Williamsport, PA
Loyalsock Dental provides children’s dental services for families in the Williamsport area. We welcome patients from many local communities including Duboistown, Linden, Jersey Shore and Elimsport. Starting routine dental care as early as possible will help prevent the development of common concerns, allow for early intervention for issues related to the development of your child’s bite, and lay the foundation for lifelong oral health.
Dr. Kim offers the convenience of a family dentist office, making it easier for today’s busy families to manage everyone’s oral health care in one location. Patients appreciate the ability to visit the dentist with their children and making the establishment of healthy oral habits a family event.
Our team takes time with patients of all ages to educate them on age appropriate oral hygiene and the benefits of maintaining their dental health. We can also monitor the stability and structure of growing smiles, making any necessary recommendations for orthodontic treatment to address malocclusion and other developmental concerns.
Family dentistry enables parents and caregivers to model healthy habits for young children who may feel anxious in the dental office setting. Being treated alongside someone they trust can relieve stress and help them feel relaxed when they come in for routine dental care.
Preventing Cavities in Children
Dental caries, or tooth cavities, are a common childhood disease and can occur in the primary teeth. Treating tooth decay as soon as possible is important in order to avoid more extensive damage or infection that can spread to the soft tissues.
Daily tooth brushing should start as soon as the first primary tooth erupts. Starting early is the key to developing lifelong habits and establishes oral hygiene as a normal part of your child’s daily routine.
Pediatric Dentistry FAQs
Pediatric dentistry is essential for children to develop a healthy smile and lifelong oral health habits. Learn more by reading the answers to these commonly asked questions.
Are baby teeth important?
The primary teeth play an important role in the eventual development of permanent teeth and your child’s facial structure and speech. Losing primary teeth can be a “big deal” sometimes, impacting the position of the permanent tooth behind it and affecting your child’s ability to speak clearly. Maintaining the health and structure of your child’s primary teeth will ensure the best possible scenario as they grow.
What are dental sealants?
Dental sealants are a clear coating applied to the surface of larger teeth in the back of the mouth. The cusps of the molars are varied and can be the perfect place for food particles to lodge, leading to decay. Dr. Kim often recommends placing dental sealants once the molars have broken through the gums to reduce the risk of cavities. Even adult patients can benefit from having dental sealants placed, especially if they are prone to tooth decay or have damaged enamel.
How long do dental sealants last?
Dental sealants typically last about ten years, but we will monitor their condition during routine visits.
What should I do if my child sucks their thumb?
Many children suck their thumbs, but they usually grow out of it by around four years of age, and it doesn’t cause any complications. If your child continues to suck their thumb as their permanent teeth are developing and erupting, or they suck their thumb very aggressively, let us know. We can monitor their oral development and see if it’s becoming problematic.
When should my child start getting dental x-rays?
Dental x-rays ensure the mouth and teeth develop as they should. We usually take the first set around age three. This gives us an idea of their development and gets your child used to the process. Once more baby teeth are in and touching each other, we recommend getting yearly x-rays. Permanent teeth start erupting at age 6, and we want to ensure everything is developing correctly.
How can I prepare my child for their first dental appointment?
The best thing you can do is ensure you’re always positive when discussing the appointment. Show them pictures of our office and staff on our website so they know what they’ll expect. There are many children’s books about going to the dentist, and they can help reassure them that there’s nothing to worry about. Our staff has special training to ensure we keep our youngest patients comfortable. You can also be there to offer them support.
Schedule A Preventive Care Visit
Dr. Joyce Kim is an experienced and trusted dentist in Williamsport, PA. We are a comprehensive dentistry dedicated to improving and maintaining your long-term dental health. To schedule a dental exam, give us a call at (570) 989-5271 or request an appointment online today.