Discover First-Class Pediatric Dentistry in San Jose

Pediatric dentistry plays a major role in children's overall health — extending far beyond maintaining a bright smile. In fact, good oral health is not only foundational to a child's general health but also significantly impacts their daily lives, including their ability to eat well, speak properly, and perform well in school. 

Research has consistently demonstrated that children with poor oral health are more likely to experience pain and discomfort, which can lead to school absences and decreased ability to concentrate and perform well in school.

One study found that children with untreated dental issues are three times more likely to miss school because of dental pain than their peers with good oral health, and another study found that students suffering from poor oral health were nearly four times more likely to have a lower grade point average. 

With dental health having such a major role in your child’s life, it's important to choose a pediatric dentist with a wealth of experience and the ability to handle any dental issue that may arise. 

Continue reading to learn more about the types of pediatric dentistry your child needs access to and where to find the best pediatric dentist in San Jose.

Pediatric Laser Dentistry 

Pediatric laser dentistry is a less invasive alternative to traditional dental tools. It uses light energy to perform procedures that would otherwise require a scalpel or drill. 

The benefits of laser dentistry for children include reduced pain and discomfort, minimized bleeding and swelling, and a lower risk of infection. The precision of the laser also allows for a more conservative treatment — preserving more of the healthy tooth and gum tissue. 

Laser dentistry reduces anxiety and fear associated with dental visits, as your child won’t be subjected to a drill's intimidating noise and vibration. Children can get laser dentistry for procedures such as treating cavities, frenectomy procedures that correct tongue-tie or lip-tie, or soft tissue lesions like mucoceles or fibromas. 

Pediatric Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are a common dental treatment used to repair tooth decay. When a tooth develops a cavity, the decayed portion of the tooth needs to be removed to prevent further damage and to restore the tooth's structure and function. 

After removing the decayed portion of the tooth, the resulting space is filled with a dental filling material. A couple of options for filling materials include:

• Amalgam fillings, also called silver fillings, are a popular option for dental fillings on baby teeth.
• Composite fillings, also called tooth-colored fillings, are an option for your child’s permanent teeth. 

Early detection and treatment of cavities can prevent the spread of decay to other teeth and help to avoid more invasive procedures such as root canals or extractions. 

Pediatric Dental Exams and Cleanings

Regular dental exams and professional dental cleanings are the foundation of preventive dental care for children. These routine visits to a pediatric dentist are designed to maintain your child's oral health and to catch any potential issues early on. 

What Happens During a Pediatric Dental Exam? 

During your child’s dental checkup, the dentist will thoroughly inspect your child's teeth, gums, and mouth for any signs of decay, gum disease, or developmental problems. They will also use dental X-rays to see between the teeth and below the gum line for issues not visible to the naked eye. 

A dental cleaning will remove plaque and tartar build-up that cannot be removed by brushing and flossing alone. This helps prevent cavities and periodontal disease. Additionally, these visits allow your child’s dentist an opportunity to discuss proper home dental care and fluoride treatments if necessary. 

Pediatric Sedation for Dental Work

Sedation helps to alleviate anxiety and fear during dental procedures, including surgical procedures — ensuring a more comfortable and stress-free experience for young dental patients. This, in turn, allows the dentist to perform necessary procedures with greater precision and efficiency. Additionally, sedation minimizes the potential for your child to have a traumatic experience because of pain or anxiety and fosters a positive attitude toward future dental visits. 

Fluoride and Sealants

Fluoride and dental sealants are essential tools in pediatric dentistry for preventing tooth decay and promoting oral health. Fluoride is a mineral that strengthens tooth enamel, making it more resistant to acid attacks from plaque, bacteria, and food particles in the mouth. Regular fluoride treatments also help remineralize weakened enamel and reverse early signs of tooth decay. 

Sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, where cavities most often develop. They work by filling in the grooves and pits of these teeth and creating a smooth surface that is easier to clean and less prone to decay. 

Emergency Dentistry

Emergency dental care prevents minor issues from escalating into major dental problems, reduces pain and discomfort, and preserves the health and function of a child's teeth after a dental injury.

Reasons your child may need an emergency dental appointment include:

• Severe toothache caused by infection, injury, or decay.
• A knocked-out tooth from playing contact sports or being involved in an accident. 
• A broken tooth from contact sports or biting into something hard. 
• Tooth abscesses or infections caused by decay or injury. 

Early Orthodontics

Early orthodontics, also known as Phase I orthodontics, is a proactive approach that can guide proper jaw growth, correct bite problems, and ensure enough space for incoming permanent teeth. Working with a pediatric dentist knowledgeable about Phase I orthodontics is crucial, as early intervention can simplify and shorten future orthodontic treatments, prevent the need for more invasive procedures, and improve oral health and function. 

Mouth Guards

Mouth guards protect children's teeth and mouths during physical activities and sports by: 

• Cushioning blows to the face.
• Reducing the risk of broken teeth.
• Protecting your child from injuries to the lips, tongue, and jaw.

A custom mouthguard offers superior comfort and protection compared to over-the-counter options. Pediatric dentists can accurately mold a mouth guard to fit the unique shape of a child's mouth, ensuring it stays securely in place and allows for easy breathing and speaking while worn. 

Where to Find the Best Pediatric Dentist in San Jose 

Establishing care with a comprehensive pediatric dentist who offers a full range of services is paramount for ensuring your child receives the best dental care and has a positive dental experience. 

At Pediatric Dentistry of San Jose, you can expect compassionate, inclusive staff committed to making your child’s visit a positive experience. Led by Dr. Michelle Haghpanah, a Board-certified pediatric dentist who is known for her kindness and for providing high-quality dental care to children of all ages, including children with special needs. Dr. Haghpanah is dedicated to maintaining long-term relationships with all her patients and bringing child-friendly modern dentistry to San Jose with advanced technology and patient-centered techniques. 

Receiving comprehensive care from Pediatric Dentistry of San Jose not only helps your child have the brightest and healthiest smile possible but also instills good dental habits that set a foundation for a lifetime of positive dental visits.

Ready to establish care with the leading pediatric dentist in San Jose?