Young Dentistry for Children

As parents, every milestone a new baby reaches is incredibly exciting, and sometimes we can get impatient and even start worrying long before we should. To get out in front of that tendency, let's lay out the average schedule of baby teeth development and eruption.

The process of growing teeth (called odontogenesis) begins in week six of pregnancy and continues after the teeth have begun erupting because the roots still have some growing to do. Babies typically get their teeth two by two, starting with the bottom front teeth somewhere between six and ten months old. Next are usually the top front teeth between months eight and twelve. After that, they get their bottom lateral incisors, then the top lateral incisors.

You might expect the canines to be next, but nope! Next up are the lower molars, then the upper molars, and only then is it time for the canines. Completing the set of baby teeth is the second set of molars, which will usually arrive by age three.

There's no need to worry if baby teeth seem slow to arrive, but if there still aren't any by the 18-month mark, a dentist should take a look. No matter whether teeth are early or late, though, bring them to the dentist once the first tooth erupts!

Time for a fresh start! Remember to change your toothbrush if it's frayed or every 3 months for a healthier smile.

Share a vacation that’s been unforgettable for you!

Hmm…is this dinosaur wearing Invisalign? 🤔🦖

Who knew such a small animal had so many teeth?

We just want to say thank you to our amazing patients! You brighten our days and make our work so rewarding.

What’s everyone up to this summer? Dr. Jill visited the Peabody Museum at Yale University and was met with this scary guy at the door! 🦖

Anyone who swims or scuba dives frequently could encounter some unique dental issues if they aren't careful. Let's take a closer look at the big ones.

The longer teeth are exposed to acidic chlorine ions in pool water, the more likely they are to develop brown or yellow stains. These are called swimmer's calculus. As good as chlorine is at keeping a public pool sanitary for all swimmers, it can become acidic enough to affect tooth enamel. Swimmers can minimize this effect by swimming with their mouths closed as much as possible and drinking plenty of water to rinse traces of pool water off of their teeth.

Scuba divers have a different set of concerns, particularly "tooth squeeze" or barodontalgia. That feeling of pressure building up in the ears when diving to the bottom of the pool is very similar to what happens inside each tooth, especially teeth with untreated cavities or ineffective dental treatment. The pressure can build to such a degree that it can even fracture teeth, which is why we strongly encourage divers to visit the dentist before starting a new diving season.

Divers often also deal with ill-fitting scuba mouthpieces, which can lead to jaw strain and even TMD symptoms. We recommend getting a custom-fitted mouthpiece to protect the teeth and jaws.

If you’re wondering if you should floss today, the answer is YES! Daily flossing keeps your smile healthy and bright.

It's grilling season and we want to know what you love throwing on the grill! Comment your favorite choice below.

Hope everyone had a safe and festive 4th of July. Dr Campbell and kids spent some time in Arizona. Grand Canyon photos to follow!

Let freedom ring! Wishing you a safe and joyful Fourth of July filled with love, laughter, and patriotic pride!

Dr. Jill with her niece and nephew. One of them has clearly been wracking up the Tooth Fairy visits!

Gentle on gums, tough on plaque! Opting for a soft-bristle toothbrush keeps your smile healthy and happy with gentle yet powerful oral care!

Father, daughter dates are always nice. 😊 Dr. Leff and his daughter, Amelia checking out a yummy Japanese bakery in Denver. Five stars, highly recommend Tokyo Premium Bakery on Pearl Street. 🥐🥮🍩

It’s World Social Media Day! Let us know what your favorite social media platform is – Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or Twitter X?

Dr. Jill’s patient, Kate, might become a dentist! She’s tagging along at Denver Health today, getting a taste of pediatric dentistry. You would be so good at this Kate!

Dental anxiety keeps millions of people from seeking dental treatment every year, and it affects kids too. Parents can help their kids develop a positive mindset about the dentist by following a few simple tips:

1. Start early. As soon as a child has their first tooth, they can benefit from seeing the dentist.

2. Play pretend. For young children, some imaginative play can help this new experience seem less intimidating. Take turns with them playing the role of the dentist and the patient.

3. Explain to older kids. Kids will be more comfortable when they understand the situation, so if they're old enough, simply explain what dental visits are like and why they're important for their teeth.

4. Prioritize dental hygiene. If kids already understand how brushing and flossing keep their smiles healthy, they are more likely to appreciate what the dentist can do for them.

5. Come meet the dentist ahead of time. Instead of diving straight into the dental exam and cleaning, schedule a meet-and-greet so that the dentist won't feel like such a stranger!

6. Be there for them. The easiest way to make the first few dental appointments less scary is by coming along and being present in the exam room to offer support and encouragement.

Dr. Jill is spending the day with the interns in pediatric dentistry at Denver Health, where she teaches part time. Everyone is so proud of these amazing people, who will go on to do great things in the specialty! Good luck Interns!

From detecting hidden cavities to assessing bone health, x-rays are essential for a precise, thorough dental check-up!

If you could teleport anywhere right now, where would you go out of these options?

And rest assured, kids! Dr. Jill never misses an ice cream opportunity!🍦😋

Dr Campbell enjoying BINGO at local Rocky Mountain Tap & Garden!

Radiant days and smiles are ahead! We hope everyone has a great summer.

Dr. Jill enjoying the most marvelous Colorado summer day with her daughter, Isa. The hike was perfect, despite a few blisters at the end!

Where fun meets dental health! Our kid-friendly approach ensures every visit is a breeze while focusing on your child's dental wellness. Let's make dental care a fun adventure!

Dr. Leff enjoyed seeing everyone's shiny smiles as he taught the kids at Shapes of Tomorrow Preschool about good oral health! We hope everyone had a great time! Remember to keep brushing and flossing well and to choose healthy snacks this summer!

To all the champion dads who are the best at what they do — Happy Father's Day!

Dr Campbell finally experiences a Colorado landmark attraction. Casa Bonita did not disappoint!!