Pediatric Dentistry

We love welcoming children to Ideal Dentistry, and we go the extra mile to make their experience with our dentist and team positive. We are committed to helping your child learn good oral habits early, being a resource for you in caring for your child’s smile, and helping your child avoid feelings of anxiety or stress in the dental office. Your child deserves a lifetime of healthy smiles, and we are here to help them achieve that goal. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Bradley Rowe and learn more about pediatric dentistry in Kennewick, Washington, call us today at 509-737-8700!

Find out more about pediatric dentistry by reviewing the FAQs below!

Are bedtime bottles or bedtime nursing all right?

If you give your child a bottle at night, make sure that bottle only contains water. Sweetened liquids, such as juice, formula or milk, will break down into sugars and cause cavities if left unattended. This condition is known as “baby bottle tooth decay.” If you nurse your child before bed, we recommend rinsing their mouth with water afterwards to help avoid tooth decay. The Academy of General Dentistry recommends that you clean your baby’s gums after each feeding to help establish better oral health for your child. You can do this by gently wiping and massaging your child’s gums with a moistened gauze square or washcloth. You may begin regular brushing and flossing after your child’s teeth begin to erupt.

What do I do if my child has a toothache?

We recommend that you first rinse the irritated area with warm salt water. If the area is swollen, place a cold compress on the face. Do NOT place aspirin or other painkillers on the teeth and gums. You may give your child acetaminophen for pain if needed. Please contact our office and make an appointment as soon as possible.

How do I make my child’s diet safe for their teeth?

Make sure their diet is balanced. It should include whole grain breads and cereals, fruits and vegetables, and good sources of calcium and protein, such as legumes, dairy products, meats, and eggs. Avoid giving your child sticky treats, and limit the sugars and starches they consume. We also recommend that you continue to bring your child to the dentist regularly and follow the recommended program for brushing and flossing. Our dentist and team will also be happy to discuss diet and nutrition for your child with you.

What are dental sealants, and how do they work?

Dental sealants are a thin plastic coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. Sealants work to protect the tooth from decay-causing factors, including food particles and harmful bacteria, so that your teeth and smile can stay healthy. Sealants can be placed quickly and comfortably during your child’s regular dental visits and will help provide effective protection for your teeth for many years.

Is my child receiving enough fluoride?

Our dentist will evaluate your child’s fluoride levels and oral health during their regular appointments. If it looks like your child is not receiving enough fluoride from drinking water and using fluoridated toothpaste, we may recommend a fluoride treatment in our office. We will discuss this with you during your child’s appointment.

How do I protect my child’s teeth during sports?

We recommend that your child wear a sports mouth guard if they participate in any form of athletics. A custom-made oral appliance can help prevent injuries to the teeth, cheeks, gums and other oral structures and in some cases may even help prevent more severe injuries to the head. Please speak with our dentist for more information.

What if my child’s permanent tooth is knocked-out?

First, remain calm. Then find the tooth. Do not touch the root or attempt to clean the tooth, as this may cause more damage and prevent the tooth from being reinserted. We recommend that you:

  • Hold the tooth by the crown and try to reinsert it in the socket.
  • If reinsertion is not possible and there is no imminent medical emergency (uncontrolled bleeding, bodily injury, unconsciousness, etc.), place the tooth in the glass of milk and contact us immediately.
  • Bring your child and their tooth to our office as soon as possible for an evaluation. Our dentist will be able to determine what treatments are needed.

If you would like to schedule an appointment with our dentist for your child, feel free to contact our team today.

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Hours

Days Hours
Monday 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Tuesday 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Wednesady 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Thursday 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Friday By Appointment Only
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed