West Ashley Family Dentistry provides complete dental care for patients of all ages. Our Charleston dentist office is warm, welcoming and home to a dedicated team of professionals who take the time to get to know you as an individual and meet your unique needs in a personalized manner.
As a family dentist office, we offer the convenience of having everyone’s oral care needs met in one location. Dr. Dickert and Dr. Lynn remain dedicated to improving your family’s dental treatment and outcomes through continuing education and have incorporated advanced technology into their practice to meet the diverse and complex needs of growing and aging smiles.
Preventing Tooth Decay in Children
Tooth decay and cavities remain a leading childhood disease, compromising the long-term health of both primary and permanent teeth. Drs. Dickert and Lynn recommend that you begin bringing your child to the dentist after the first tooth erupts.
Early visits with a dentist can lay the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles and reduce the anxiety often associated with dental care. Routine dental care that begins as the primary teeth are developing provides the opportunity for us to spot dental problems early on when treatment can be conservative and address possible bite problems down the road.
We have treated many adults who suffer from dental anxiety because of a bad experience as a child. Our compassionate dental staff is trained to avoid this from happening. When your young child visits with us, our staff makes every effort to help them feel relaxed and comfortable. We take the time to explain their dental treatment and to educate them on the benefits of keeping their teeth and gums clean and healthy.
Our goal is to help your child develop an understanding and appreciation for the role that their oral health plays in their overall well-being, especially as they grow. Teaching young patients how to brush and floss effectively can help to reduce tooth decay now and in the future as good habits are developed and maintained for the long term.
Dental Services for Children in Charleston
West Ashley Family Dentistry offers comprehensive dental health care in our family-friendly office. We practice the concept of “complete dentistry” by evaluating all parts of the occlusal system and making sure they are all functioning in harmony with each other. We provide general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry that is tailored to your changing needs:
- Dental exams and cleanings
- Dental fillings
- Periodontal therapy
- TMJ therapy
- Orthodontic care with Invisalign®
- Dental sealants
- Custom sports mouthguards for children and adults
Family Dentistry FAQs
At what age should children begin to see the dentist?
Pediatric dentists recommend that your child sees the dentist around their first birthday or six months after their first tooth comes in. It is important for young children to see their dentist early and keep regular checkups to ensure their jaw and teeth are in line and that they are keeping up with their oral hygiene.
Are thumbsucking and pacifier habits harmful to a child’s teeth?
Aggressive pacifier use or sucking thumbs can cause issues with baby teeth. A child sucking on their thumb and a child sucking on a pacifier serve the same action and purpose. The main problem of this behavior is the germs that may be entering the child’s mouth. Cleaning pacifiers regularly is a good way to limit any problems from thumb-sucking behaviors.
What is the difference between a pediatric dentist and a family dentist?
A family dentist is responsible for parents, children, and the entire family’s dental needs. Pediatric dentists, like pediatric doctors, are solely responsible for children’s oral health. They have the same level of dental training, but pediatric dentists specialize in working with children and infants.
Is pediatric dentistry a specialty?
Pediatric dentists specialize in youth oral health, helping them through any dental issues they encounter throughout adolescence. They specialize in treating children and infants. Children may face some issues with oral health adults do not deal with. As a result, it is beneficial for children to see a pediatric dentist. Pediatric dentists specialize in those types of issues to ensure that children receive specialized and proper oral care.
How long do dental sealants last?
Dental sealants typically sealants can protect your teeth for up to 10 years. However, they can sometimes chip or wear away. Plaque can also build up around the area and make the bond weak and cause an early sealant failure. As a result, your dentist will check the condition of the sealants during your regular check-ups. If need be, your dentist can repair sealants by adding more sealant material. So, while sealants are not a permanent fixture, proper care and regular dental visits can provide long-lasting protection for your teeth.
What is the difference between a sports mouthguard and a dental mouthguard?
Athletes use sports mouthguards to protect teeth and soft tissues from injuries during sports activities. It typically covers your upper teeth, and it contains a durable material. On the other hand, dentists prescribe and recommend dental mouthguards to prevent teeth grinding or clenching while you sleep. Your dentist custom-makes this mouthguard for a comfortable fit and typically uses a softer material for long-term use.
Schedule a Dental Exam with our Dentists in Charleston SC
Family dentistry can often make life easier, enabling everyone to maintain a healthy smile in the same Charleston dentist office. We offer evening hours and early morning appointments to meet your scheduling needs. We welcome patients from Charleston and many local communities to our office, which is conveniently located on Saint Andrews Blvd. To schedule an appointment, contact us at (843) 371-5480 or request an appointment online, and we will get back to you shortly.