Services
An Inviting Children’s Dental office in Gig Harbor, Washington
The Kvinsland Dentistry team has a gentle touch with kids. Dr. Kvinsland and Dr. DeBuck have a natural ability to win the trust of even the most sensitive children. Their excellent listening skills, attention to detail, and ability to relate to them one on one is naturally calming. Parents are confident in our staff’s professionalism, quality dental care, and excellent communication.
Your Child’s Oral Health is Our Number One Priority
A child typically begins growing their primary teeth at around six months of age. Kvinsland Dentistry has found that a child’s first visit should happen between 1 and 3 years old. Establishing good dental health habits early helps for long-term dental health.
It is important to maintain primary (baby) teeth until they naturally fall out. Baby teeth are essential to many developmental functions, including learning speech patterns and chewing properly, impacting a person’s lifelong oral health.
When you are looking to set up your first visit with a children’s dentist in the Gig Harbor, WA area contact the office of Kvinsland Dentistry!
Preparing Your Child for a Trip to the Dentist Office
We have helped children with sensitivities and are happy to work with you ahead of time to learn about your child and brainstorm what strategies can make the day successful.
Normalize the Process:
Everyone goes to the dentist. Treating it as a normal activity with your child will help them build confidence. Have your child go with you and watch when you have your dentist appointments.
Impart Information:
Be honest, calm, and reassuring when talking to your child about the dentist. Talk about what to expect, what the office will be like, and how your child’s teeth will feel afterwards. There are plenty of age-appropriate books out there about visits to a children’s dentist; consider reading one of these together.
One of our favorites is “Brush Your Teeth, Please” a pop-up book.
Build Excitement:
Roleplay dentist visits with your child and speak about the visit in a positive way. Consider a fun outing after your dentist visit to create positive associations.
Manage Your Emotions:
Be aware that your own fears of the dentist may translate to your child. If you have your own fears, work to hide them or entrust another adult with the task of preparing your child for his or her visit.
What your child can expect at their first visit with Kvinsland Dentistry
- Dr. Kvinsland or Dr. DeBuck will introduce themselves and get to know your child and their interests – establishing a relationship from day one. Of course, they will also check your child’s teeth and talk to them about the importance of teeth and keeping teeth strong.
- If the child is cooperative, the dental assistant will take x-rays of his or her teeth to give our dentists an idea of any treatments that might be needed.
- Our Dental Assistant will let them see, touch, and ask questions about each tool, so nothing is a mystery.
- Your child’s teeth will be cleaned with a gentle flavor such as bubble gum or strawberry.
- If the child is cooperative, he or she will get a fluoride treatment. Some children are not ready to sit still and not swallow on cue, which our professionals will take into account. If the fluoride treatment is successful, your child will not be able to drink or eat for 30 minutes after the appointment.
Children’s Dentist FAQ
When should I bring my child in for their first dentist visit?
Why Should We Restore or Place Fillings on Baby Teeth?
It is unwise to leave any amount of decay on baby teeth. Decay can easily move to other baby teeth or even to permanent teeth. It can also cause pain and expensive orthodontic problems that could be avoided. We recommend carefully restoring all decayed teeth, both baby and permanent, to optimal health.
Why are dentist appointments every six months for children?
Regular visits help a child get comfortable with their doctor and our staff. These visits are important to consistently evaluate your child’s growth and take early corrective measures if needed. Regular exams and cleanings help prevent decay and avoid costly problems later on. Regular dental visits are part of leading a healthy and normal life for your child and establishing long-term healthy habits.
Why Should My Child Have Fluoride?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring element and has been shown to decrease the chance of getting cavities drastically. Many of our adult patients who grew up with regular dental care and fluoride supplementation have few or no dental problems.
When Should My Child Begin to Brush Their Teeth?
- Brushing should begin before children can do it themselves.
- A wet cloth or gauze effectively cleans gums, removes plaque after nursing, and establishes a good habit early on.
- Gentle brushing with a soft bristle brush should begin when your child gets their first tooth. Flossing should become a daily habit by the time they have most of their primary teeth.
- Children can brush on their own with careful supervision at age six or seven. By eight or nine, they can floss on their own.
- The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry says, “a good rule of thumb is: When children are accomplished enough in caring for their own needs that they can get up, bathe and dress themselves and comb their hair without your help – then they are ready to accept full responsibility for their mouth-cleaning program!”
