Dentistry is important at every age and every stage of life. We provide dental care services to children as well as adults in our Columbia, South Carolina dental office. Dr. Tom Trinkner, Dr. Nick Keefer, and our staff are very familiar with the needs of children and work to make them feel as comfortable as possible. Preventive dental care and conservative treatments are the primary focus of our children’s dentistry program.
Our Family Dental Services
Trinkner & Keefer provides preventive care for the whole family. We offer a range of dental services that will help maintain healthy teeth and gums for years to come. Visit us for regular check-ups and teeth cleanings, to fluoride treatments and sealants. We can also provide advice on proper oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing, as well as nutrition tips to help keep your smile looking its best.
Our family dental care team may use dental sealants to prevent dental cavities in children. Dental sealants consist of bio-compatible materials, forming a protective barrier over teeth and offer long-lasting protection. Our dentists can place sealants in a single visit.
Pediatric Dentist vs. Family Dentist
Pediatric dentists and family dentists both provide dental care for children and adults, but there are differences between the two. Pediatric dentists specialize in treating infants, children, adolescents, and those with special needs. They have the training to be able to recognize the unique characteristics of each age group in order to provide the best possible care. Family dentists can also provide excellent dental care for all age groups, but they might not be as knowledgeable about the specific needs of each age group.
Patients often bring their older children or adolescents who have outgrown the pediatric dentist to our office to continue their dental care. Families in our Columbia dental office appreciate the convenience of having everyone treated by the same dentist.
A typical child’s visit to our office may include:
- Teeth cleaning
- Fluoride treatment
- Diagnostic x-rays
- Dental caries (cavities) screening
- Periodontal screening
- Examination of the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) and jaw position
Family Dentistry FAQs
Parents and families should understand the basics of family dentistry and what questions they should ask when visiting their child’s dentist. To help parents better understand this field, here are some common questions that we answer.
When should my child first visit the dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children visit a pediatric dentist as soon as the first tooth emerges and no later than a child’s first birthday. Tooth decay can happen as soon as the first tooth erupts. Consult with your pediatrician about fluoride supplements as well.
Should I brush my baby’s teeth?
Yes, gently cleaning a baby’s erupting primary teeth with a very soft toothbrush not only introduces the concept of keeping the teeth clean early on but can help to avoid decay. Once the first tooth is completely visible, use a minimal amount of toothpaste. Our team can demonstrate proper tooth brushing techniques when you come in for a visit.
Why are baby teeth important? Don’t they just fall out?
A child’s primary teeth (baby teeth) are essential to the future of his or her dental health. Healthy teeth are important for chewing and will encourage a healthy diet. Teeth are also vital for speech development. The primary teeth also help to keep a space for the permanent teeth that will eventually emerge. If baby teeth fall out early because of an accident or tooth decay, the dentist may use a space retainer to ensure that the permanent tooth has the space it needs when the time comes.
Call our dentist in Columbia, SC at 803-400-8729 to schedule a consultation, or request an appointment online.