Southfield Kid's Dentist serves children of all ages, from their first tooth to 18 yrs. We are dedicated to giving your child the best dental care possible in a fun, kid-friendly, and comfortable atmosphere. Our incredibly patient staff is dedicated to helping children understand how important good oral hygiene is, and we will work with you to help your child develop a healthy lifestyle that encourages a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.
Our patients come from all over Oakland County including Southfield, Westland, Novi, Dearborn, Farmington Hills, and even as far as Detroit. When it comes to children's teeth cleaning and children's cavity treatment, Dr. Ife and the team at Southfield Kid's Dentist have earned their reputation as Michigan's top pediatric dentist.
Frequently Asked Questions About Southfield Kid’s Dentist
What should I use to clean my baby's teeth?
Use a soft, infant-size toothbrush to remove plaque bacteria that can lead to decay. Infant toothbrushes have a small head, sometimes with tiny bristles but usually with rubber nubs. They are designed especially for infants and should be used at least once a day at bedtime.
When should I take my child to the dentist for the first check-up?
We recommend bringing your infant to a pediatric dentist when the first tooth appears or no later than his/her first birthday.
What is the difference between a pediatric dentist and a family dentist?
Pediatric dentists specialize in children’s oral care. They typically have patients up to 18 years. A pediatric dentist has two to three years of specialty training following dental. Pediatric dentists are primary and specialty oral care providers for infants and children through adolescence, including those with special health needs.
Are baby teeth really that important to my child?
Primary, or "baby," teeth are important for many reasons. Not only do they help children speak clearly and chew naturally, they also aid in forming a path that permanent teeth can follow when they are ready to erupt.
What should I do if my child has a toothache?
First, rinse the irritated area with warm salt water and place a cold compress on the face if it is swollen. Give the child acetaminophen for any pain rather than placing aspirin on the teeth or gums. Finally, see a dentist as soon as possible.
Are thumb-sucking and pacifier habits harmful to a child's teeth?
Thumb and pacifier-sucking habits will generally only become a problem if they go on for a very long time. Most children stop these habits on their own, but if they are still sucking their thumbs or fingers past the age of three, a mouth appliance may be recommended by your pediatric dentist.
How can I prevent decay caused by nursing?
Avoid nursing children to sleep or putting anything other than water in their bedtime bottles. Also, learn how to brush and floss your child's teeth properly. Take your child to a pediatric dentist regularly to check his/her teeth and gums. The first dental visit should be scheduled by your child's first birthday.
How often does my child need to see the pediatric dentist?
A check-up every six months is recommended in order to prevent cavities and other dental problems. However, your pediatric dentist can tell you when and how often your child should visit based on their personal oral health.
Toothpaste: when should we begin using it, and how much should we use?
Starting at birth, clean your child’s gums with a soft infant toothbrush or cloth and water. Parents should use a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste to brush baby teeth twice daily as soon as they erupt using a soft, appropriately sized toothbrush. Once children are 3 to 6 years old, then the amount should be increased to a pea-size dollop and you should help guide your child’s tooth brushing. Young children typically are not able to brush their teeth effectively, and they need to be reminded to spit out and not swallow the toothpaste when they are finished brushing.
How do I make my child's diet safe for his teeth?
Make sure your child has a balanced diet, including one serving each of: fruits and vegetables, breads and cereals, milk and dairy products, and meat fish and eggs. Limiting the servings of sugars and starches will also aid in protecting your child's teeth from decay. You can also ask your pediatric dentist to help you select foods that protect your children's teeth.
What is nitrous oxide?
Nitrous oxide (aka, laughing gas or sweet air) is an anti-anxiety gas that can be breathed in through a simple mask. It is, for all intents and purposes, a harmless medication which works fast and is extremely short lasting with relatively no side effects. It is a great tool for children because of its safety and efficacy. It helps alleviate anxiety in children who are cooperative but apprehensive. Use of nitrous is not necessary for many patients. Our doctor determines when use of nitrous is needed in the course of treatment.
How do dental sealants work?
Sealants work by filling in the crevasses on the chewing surfaces of the teeth. This shuts out food particles that could get caught in the teeth, causing cavities. The application is fast and comfortable and can effectively protect teeth for many years.
How do I know if my child is getting enough fluoride?
Have your pediatric dentist evaluate the fluoride level of your child's primary source of drinking water. If your child is not getting enough fluoride internally through water (especially if the fluoride level is deficient or if your child drinks bottled water without fluoride), then your pediatric dentist may prescribe fluoride supplements.
What can I do to protect my child's teeth during sporting events?
Soft plastic mouthguards can be used to protect a child's teeth, lips, cheeks and gums from sport related injuries. A custom-fitted mouthguard developed by a pediatric dentist will protect your child from injuries to the teeth, face, and even provide protection from severe injuries to the head.
What should I do if my child falls and knocks out a permanent tooth?
The most important thing to do is to remain calm. Then find the tooth. Hold it by the crown rather than the root and try to reinsert it in the socket. If that is not possible, put the tooth in a glass of milk and take your child and the glass immediately to the pediatric dentist.
When should my child get braces?
We recommend orthodontic evaluation when your child reaches age 7. Prior to your child reaching age 7, our doctors will do periodic checkup during examinations to determine when to begin orthodontic treatment. There are certain orthodontic issues which require early intervention at about 7-8 years old. Otherwise, most orthodontic problems can wait until all the baby teeth have been replaced by permanent teeth.
How safe are dental X-rays?
There is very little risk in dental X-rays. Pediatric dentists are especially careful to limit the amount of radiation to which children are exposed. Lead aprons and high-speed film are used to ensure safety and minimize the amount of radiation.
How can parents help prevent tooth decay?
Parents should take their children to the dentist regularly, beginning with the eruption of the first tooth. Then, the dentist can recommend a specific program of brushing, flossing, and other treatments for parents to supervise and teach to their children. These home treatments, when added to regular dental visits and a balanced diet, will help give your child a lifetime of healthy habits.
What are the operating hours of Southfield Kid’s Dentist?
Southfield Kid’s Dentist is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and Wednesday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is closed on Saturdays and Sundays.
What age range does Southfield Kid’s Dentist serve?
Southfield Kid’s Dentist serves children of all ages from their first tooth up to 18 years old.
What types of dental services does Southfield Kid’s Dentist offer?
They provide pediatric dentistry services including dental checkups, cavity treatment, tooth restorations, cleanings and fluoride application, digital radiographs (X-rays), composite tooth-colored fillings, and sedation dentistry.
Where is Southfield Kid’s Dentist located?
Southfield Kid’s Dentist is located at 18900 West 10 Mile Road, Southfield, MI 48075, United States.
Is Southfield Kid’s Dentist affiliated with any professional dental organizations?
Yes, it is associated with American Dental Association, Michigan Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, Children's Hospital of Michigan - Detroit Medical Center, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, and Michigan Dental Association.
How can I contact Southfield Kid’s Dentist?
You can contact Southfield Kid’s Dentist by phone at +1 248-565-3332 or email at info@southfieldkidsdentist.com.
What is the website for Southfield Kid’s Dentist?
The website is https://www.southfieldkidsdentist.com where you can find more information and book appointments.
What nearby healthcare facilities might be useful if I am visiting Southfield Kid’s Dentist?
Nearby healthcare facilities include Sheikh Medical Center and Michigan Gum Docs (periodontist). These can be helpful for additional medical or dental services before or after your visit.
Are there other dental specialists near Southfield Kid’s Dentist?
Yes, nearby dental specialists include Drs. Shaw and XXXX Orthodontics, The Best Braces, and Braces on 10, which offer orthodontic treatments.
What nearby services might parents enjoy while waiting for their child's appointment at Southfield Kid’s Dentist?
Parents might visit nearby beauty salons like Mia K Experience or J2 Salon, or enjoy a workout at The Fit Self, LLC gym, conveniently located near Southfield Kid’s Dentist.