Our dentists practice family dentistry in Newtown, PA. Family dentistry allows patients of all ages to receive the care they need. It is also a general dentistry service that helps prevent future dental problems. For the convenience of our patients, our dental office provides group scheduling. This allows multiple members of the family to receive care simultaneously.
Please contact us if your family needs to schedule an appointment and we will be happy to help.
Children’s Dentistry
We recommend that parents bring their children to the dentist every six months or twice a year. During a child’s routine visit to our office, we may provide:
- Dental cleanings
- X-rays
- Tooth sealants
- Flouride treatment
Dental sealants and fluoride treatments are important to prevent cavities, which are a top concern for children. Sealants are thin coatings that we place on the molars to protect the teeth from developing cavities. Fluoride treatments use a varnish that stays on the teeth for several hours.
This treatment also helps strengthen the tooth enamel against decay. We recommend sealants for children between the ages of 6 and 14 and fluoride treatment for patients aged 6 months and 16 years.
Caring for Baby Teeth
Primary teeth or baby teeth are key to ensuring that your child has a good foundation for their developing smile. Even before a child’s first tooth erupts, parents should be cleaning the gums with a damp cloth. Wiping away excess food helps combat problems like gum disease.
Parents should also schedule their child’s first visit to our office after their first baby tooth emerges, or when they are 6 to 9 months old. Once the baby teeth come in, parents should use an infant-sized toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of toothpaste to brush the teeth and gums.
Gently caring for a baby’s gums and primary teeth prevents bacterial infections. Early dental care is key to preventing gum disease and tooth decay.
Restorations and Cosmetic Care for Adults
As our smiles age, we may require additional dental care to maintain the look and health of the teeth and gums. For our older patients, we offer dental crowns, porcelain veneers, tooth bonding, dental implants, dental bridges, and dentures. These treatments may be used to add structure to damaged teeth, protect weakened teeth, and replace missing teeth.
Dental crowns are porcelain ceramic caps that cover areas of dental damage or discoloration. Porcelain veneers and tooth bonding are similar cosmetic treatments that brighten dull teeth and repair damaged teeth. Veneers are porcelain ceramic shells, while dental bonding treatment uses a malleable tooth-colored material on the tooth enamel.
Dental implants are titanium posts that replace single or multiple missing teeth. Although dental bridges and dentures can be removable, we recommend that patients secure their dental restorations with implants.
No matter your restorative or cosmetic needs, our professional team of dentists is here to help. We take the time to explain our treatment process so patients fully understand their options.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is oral cancer screening recommended?
Many dentists recommend oral cancer screenings during routine dental visits. Oral cancer screening visits should occur at least once a year. However, your dentist may recommend more frequent screenings if you have a family history of oral cancer or use tobacco. Early detection is key to successful treatment outcomes. Moreover, regular screenings are essential for the effective diagnosis of oral cancers.
How long does tooth sealant last?
On average, dental sealants can last from 5 to 10 years. However, a dentist may need to check them for chipping or wear. To help your sealants last longer, you should maintain good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing daily. Furthermore, you should also have regular dental check-ups. Your dentist will be able to inspect the condition of your sealant and reapply it if necessary.
What does the fluoride treatment do?
Fluoride treatment helps to strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay. It can also reverse early signs of tooth decay and minimize the growth of harmful bacteria in your mouth. Ultimately, the treatment leaves your teeth stronger.
When can I start brushing my baby’s teeth with toothpaste?
You should begin brushing your baby’s teeth with toothpaste when their first tooth appears or no later than age one. This will help to prevent cavities and gum disease from forming later. When using toothpaste for an infant or young child, select one that contains fluoride. The toothpaste should have little to no salt or other chemicals. Use only a pea-sized amount of paste on the brush, and make sure your child spits out the excess after brushing.
What happens if you never get professional teeth cleaning?
If you never get a professional teeth cleaning, plaque and tartar can accumulate on your teeth and under your gum line. This buildup can cause gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis), which can lead to tooth loss in severe cases. Bacteria in plaque can also produce acids that cause tooth decay and cavities. Furthermore, poor oral hygiene can cause health problems, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Regular dental cleanings are crucial to maintaining oral and overall health.
What is the most common dental restoration?
The most common dental restoration is a dental filling. Dentists use fillings to repair damaged tooth structures in cases of decay, fractures, or wear. Dental fillings can contain various materials, such as amalgam (silver-colored) or composite resin (tooth-colored). They may chip or break down over time and need replacement every 5 to 10 years, depending on the type of filling.
Schedule a Dental Appointment
Are you looking for a family dentist in the Newtown area? Contact the Dentists of Newtown for family-friendly dental care at 267-692-2394. Feel free to request a dental consultation with our team on our website.