Pediatric dentistry is dentistry for children ages 1-18.  Dr. Hanson is very comfortable treating children of all ages. Our goal in treatment of this population is prevention. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a child’s first visit to the dentist be by age 1 to familiarize children with the dental setting and to have the opportunity to educate parents on home care and diet. Most children have all of their teeth by age 3 or earlier. We strongly encourage sealants, regular preventive visits, and fluoride treatments. Just like adults children need to brush their teeth twice a day. Most children need help from their parents brushing until they can tie their shoes on their own.

Preventive-oriented pediatric dentistry

The addition of fluoride to municipal water supplies has dramatically reduced the incidence of dental decay in today’s children. Other preventive measures are routinely taken such as topical fluoride applications, sealants, and control over the factors that can cause decay.