Pediatric Dental Resources for parents
Everything you need to know about keeping your child's smile healthy — from their very first visit to preventing cavities at home. Browse by topic below, or call our Medicine Hat clinic at (587) 289-2200 if you have questions.
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Your child's first dental visit
It's recommended that your child see a dentist when their first tooth comes in — usually before the age of one. Cavities are the most common infectious disease in Canadian children and can progress quickly in baby teeth, so early visits matter.
Our pediatric specialists use child-friendly language and behaviour management techniques in a clinic designed to put children at ease. We understand that dental visits can feel nerve-wracking, and we do everything we can to make your child's experience a positive one from the very start.
Dental milestones by age — what to expect
First tooth typically appears around 6 months. Schedule your child's first dental visit when it does. Before the first tooth erupts, use a soft cloth to gently wipe your baby's gums after nursing.
0-12 months
Baby teeth continue coming in. Brush twice daily with a rice-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste, ideally once after the last feed before night sleep.
1-3 years
All 20 primary teeth are usually in by age 3. First permanent molars may begin appearing around age 6. It's important to help your child floss to prevent cavities in between the teeth.
4-6 years
Baby teeth begin falling out and permanent teeth replace them. This is a key window for sealants and preventive care.
6-12 years
Most permanent teeth are in. Wisdom teeth may begin developing in the mid-teens — we monitor and refer for oral surgery as needed.
12-21 years
Questions about your child's development? Our pediatric dentists are happy to walk you through what's normal and what to watch for.
Any age
Oral hygiene for children - a guide for parents
Twice daily for at least two minutes. Use a rice-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste for under 3s, pea-sized for older children. Supervise until they can do it properly on their own.
Brushing
Floss between any teeth that are touching, once daily. Gentle pressure only. This is especially important as cavities can easily form between touching teeth.
Flossing
MI Paste is a topical, milk-derived cream that replenishes essential minerals—calcium and phosphate—directly to the teeth. It is excellent for kids because it helps reverse early-stage cavities, repairs weakened tooth enamel, and reduces tooth sensitivity.
MI Paste
Use a non-alcoholic fluoridated mouthwash to keep bacteria levels low. Our dentists will recommend professional fluoride treatments based on your child's cavity risk.
Toothpaste and Mouthwash
Preventing Cavities In Children
Sealants
A plastic coating bonded to the biting surfaces of back teeth to seal deep grooves where cavities commonly form. Completed in one visit, no freezing required.
Fluoride Treatments
Professional fluoride applications strengthen tooth enamel and are especially beneficial for children at higher risk of cavities.
Diet & Nutrition
Limit sugary drinks, sticky foods, and excess carbohydrates. Fresh fruit, vegetables, firm cheeses, and water are the best choices for oral health.
How to talk to your child about going to the dentist
Keep a positive, upbeat attitude when discussing dental visits. Try not to give too many details that could worry them — keep it simple, and make it sound like something to look forward to. Avoid using words like "needle," "hurt," or "pain." Let our team introduce any tools or procedures in child-friendly language when you arrive.
After a great visit, we love to celebrate with prizes — a little reward goes a long way in building a positive association with the dentist.
Pacifier and thumb sucking — when to be concerned
Sucking on thumbs, fingers, or pacifiers is completely normal for babies and very young children. If the habit continues past age three, however, it can affect how the teeth and jaws develop and may lead to orthodontic issues down the road.
Most children stop on their own with gentle reminders from parents and their dentist. In some cases, we can help with an appliance. Bring it up at your child's next visit and we'll assess together.
What to do in a pediatric dental emergency
Dental emergencies can be stressful — especially with a child in pain. Call our office at (587) 289-2200 and our staff will help you navigate the situation. Here's what to do in the most common situations.
Knocked out a tooth
Do not try to re-implant it. Keep your child calm, control any bleeding with gentle pressure, and call our clinic right away. If it's an adult tooth, don't touch the root. Keep it moist (in milk or saliva) and bring it with you.
Bit lip, cheek, or tongue.
Swish with salt water to clean the area, or gently dab with a clean cloth. Firmly apply direct, steady pressure using clean gauze or a cloth for 10-15 minutes to stop bleeding. Apply a cold compress to minimize swelling.
Chipped or broken tooth
Seek immediate care if the break is severe, bleeding heavily, or if you can see the pink pulp (the nerve) inside the tooth. If the chip is not sensitive, it may not be urgent.
Toothache
Pain that disrupts sleep or is accompanied by a fever or swelling should be addressed right away; however, mild sensitivity or occasional tenderness (ie while chewing or brushing) may not be urgent.
Preparing for General Anesthesia - before/after guidance for parents
If your child's treatment plan includes general anesthesia, it's natural to have questions. Here's an overview of what to expect before, during, and after the procedure. Our team will walk you through everything in detail at your consultation.
Before
Your child will need to fast (no food or drink) for a period before the procedure. We'll give you specific instructions at your pre-op appointment.
During
A licensed medical anesthesiologist monitors your child throughout. Our pediatric dentist completes all necessary treatment in one visit.
After
Your child will need to rest and be monitored at home. Grogginess is normal. We'll provide full post-care instructions before you leave.
Have questions not covered here?
Our team is happy to help— book directly online or call our Medicine Hat clinic. No referral needed.