Going to the dentist can be stressful for kids, and for parents, too. Small tooth problems can turn into bigger ones if they’re not treated early. Our pediatric dentistry services are all about gentle care that helps kids feel calm while keeping their smiles healthy as they grow. At Atrium Dental, our pediatric dentist in Ahwatukee understands children and treats them with patience and care at every age.
When Should a Child See a Pediatric Dentist in Ahwatukee, AZ?
A visit to a kids’ dentist is a good idea when these issues appear:
- First tooth (around 6-12 months)
- Cavities or tooth pain
- Tooth alignment issues or crowding
- Injuries to teeth or gums
- Concerns about thumb sucking or pacifier use
- Difficulty with brushing or flossing
- Developmental or special needs requiring extra care
What Should I Tell My Child about the First Dental Visit?
Keep it simple and positive. Tell your child that you’re going to see a pediatric dentist in Ahwatukee to “count their teeth” and help keep their smile healthy. Avoid scary words like pain, shots, or drills.
First Visit Tips for Parents:
- Talk about the visit in a calm, happy way.
- Read a kids’ book or watch a short video about going to the dentist.
- Let your child bring a favorite toy or comfort item.
- Schedule the visit earlier in the day when your child is rested.
- Stay relaxed. Kids often copy their parents’ feelings.
Best Pediatric Dentistry Near Me
Meet Our Pediatric Dentist in Ahwatukee, AZ
At Atrium Dental, Dr. Shahyar Foroughi, D.D.S., provides gentle dental care for children with a calm and patient approach. He earned his degree in Biological Sciences from USC and his dental degree from UCSF, with advanced training in general and restorative dentistry. His experience helps him care for children at every stage, from first visits to teen years.
When treating kids, Dr. Foroughi focuses on comfort and trust. He explains things in simple words, moves at the child’s pace, and makes visits feel relaxed and safe. Parents appreciate his honest answers, and kids appreciate feeling heard and cared for.
If you’re looking for a dentist your child can feel comfortable with, visit our office on E. Agave Rd. in Phoenix, call (480) 940-4321, and see why families rate us 4.8 stars on Google.
Most Common Dental Problems in Children
Dental Problem | What It Means |
Cavities | Tooth decay caused by sugar, poor brushing, or frequent snacking |
Tooth Sensitivity | Discomfort when eating hot, cold, or sweet foods |
Gum Inflammation | Red or swollen gums from plaque buildup |
Thumb Sucking Effects | Can affect tooth alignment if the habit continues |
Early Tooth Loss | Baby teeth lost too early may cause spacing issues |
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) | Grinding teeth during sleep, often stress-related |
Dental Injuries | Chipped or knocked-out teeth from falls or sports |
Our Pediatric Dentistry Treatments and Services
Dr. Foroughi, our pediatric dentist in Ahwatukee, makes trips to the clinic a whole lot easier for kids and parents. Here’s what we offer:
- Gentle cleanings and exams
- Digital X-rays with super low radiation
- Fluoride treatments for strong teeth
- Tooth-colored fillings for small cavities
- Sealants to prevent future decay
- Baby tooth extractions when needed
- Custom mouthguards for sports
- Space maintainers (for when baby teeth leave too early)
- Guidance on thumb-sucking, pacifiers, and teething
- Happy visits to help little ones feel safe and comfortable.
Cavity Prevention Tips for Kids (For Parents)
- Brush your child’s teeth twice a day using a small amount of fluoride toothpaste.
- Help or supervise brushing until your child can clean well on their own
- Floss your child’s teeth daily, especially between back teeth.
- Limit sugary snacks, candy, and sweet drinks.
- Encourage drinking water after meals and snacks.
- Avoid putting your child to bed with milk, juice, or sweet drinks.
- Keep regular dental checkups to catch cavities early.
FAQs
Why bring your child to the dentist?
Regular visits to a pediatric dentist office help prevent cavities, catch problems early, and build healthy habits from a young age.
What should I do in case of a dental emergency involving my child?
Stay calm and contact a dentist right away. For pain, swelling, or a broken tooth, seek dental care from an emergency pediatric dentist in Ahwatukee as soon as possible.
How can I help my child overcome a fear of the dentist?
Talk about the visit in a positive way, avoid scary words, and choose a dentist who is patient and gentle with children.
When should my child start brushing and flossing?
Brushing should start when the first tooth appears. Flossing should begin once teeth touch each other.
Do pediatric dentists in Ahwatukee do root canals?
Yes. They can perform child-friendly root canal treatments when a baby tooth is badly infected.
What is teething?
Teething is when baby teeth begin to come in, which can cause sore gums, drooling, and mild fussiness.
What pediatric dentist accepts Medicaid?
Many pediatric dental offices accept Medicaid, but coverage can vary. It’s best to call the office to confirm your child’s plan is accepted.
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