Infant in a dentist chair
Toddler in a dentist chair holding a sign that reads
Three kids on a couch, smiling

Expect great care at every age

You can expect the highest-quality dental care at every stage of your child’s development.

Infant visit (age one) Toddlers and preschoolers Elementary to young adult
Infant in a dentist chair

Infant visit (age one)

Let’s get that smile started—the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Academy of Pediatrics strongly encourage taking your child to the dentist for their first visit by age one. Early prevention of cavities is the primary goal.

During your visit:

What we do

Your first visit will be focused on assessing the development of your infant’s mouth and discussing the best ways to protect their growing smile.

How it works

No dentist’s chair required! You will sit knee-to-knee with the doctor so your child can comfortably lay back between the two of you in a safe, nurturing environment.

What to expect

It’s very common for a child this age to cry in response to something they don’t want to do. One of the many benefits of visiting a pediatric dentist is our ability to handle a child’s tears with compassion and understanding— even when they can’t talk to us yet.

While you’re here, we will provide guidance on:

How to care for your infant’s teeth and mouth

Teething and milestones of development

Impact of diet on oral health (including beverages)

Proper use of fluoride and toothpaste

Oral habits, including finger, thumb, and pacifier sucking

Preventing accidents that could damage your child’s face or teeth

Toddler in a dentist chair holding a sign that reads

Toddlers and preschoolers

The sooner your child begins getting regular dental check-ups, the healthier their smile will be for the rest of their lives. Early check-ups help prevent cavities and tooth decay, making it easier for them to learn how to speak and chew properly.

During your visit:

What we do

To ensure optimal oral health, we recommend visits at least twice a year for a comprehensive exam of the teeth and gums by one of our pediatric dentists, which may include digital radiographs. Teeth cleanings begin when most of your child’s baby teeth have arrived, typically around 3 years of age (but it may be earlier in some cases).

How it works

Can’t imagine taking an active toddler to the dentist? Good news: we don’t expect them to sit in a dentist’s chair. You will sit knee-to-knee with the care provider so your child can comfortably lay back between the two of you in a safe, nurturing environment until they are ready for the dentist’s chair.

What to expect

Your pediatric dentist will customize a home hygiene program for your child by providing recommendations and instructions based on your child’s individual needs, exam findings, and risk factors.

While you’re here, we will provide guidance on:

Milestones of dental growth and development

Impact of diet on oral health (including beverages)

Proper use of fluoride and toothpaste

Toothbrush selection according to age

Oral habits, including finger, thumb, and pacifier sucking

Preventing accidents that could damage your child’s face or teeth

Sister and brother smiling at the dentist office

Elementary to young adult

Our warm, welcoming environment is designed to help your child develop a positive attitude toward dentistry that lasts a lifetime. You can count on Southmoor to meet your child’s unique needs as they grow, partnering with you every step of the way.

During your visit:

What we do

In addition to cleaning and polishing your child’s teeth, your dentist will assess your child’s mouth for early signs of cavities, developed cavities, signs of gum disease, dental and oral abnormalities, and developmental patterns during the dental exam.

How it works

We believe that in the right environment, with a close patient-doctor relationship, children respond well to dental treatment. As a parent you are always welcome by your child’s side—in fact, we encourage it! We use the “tell-show-do” method, explaining in age-appropriate terms what we will be doing, and showing them the dental instruments before we do the exam or procedure.

What to expect

As your child grows, age-specific dental recommendations will be made to maintain healthy teeth—such as dental sealants on permanent molars. For teens and tweens with braces, patients may need more frequent visits to ensure their teeth are properly cleaned around the appliances.

While you’re here, we will provide guidance on:

Impact of diet on oral health (including beverages)

Proper use of fluoride and toothpaste

When to visit an orthodontist for an evaluation

Age-specific issues, including tobacco use and oral piercings as your child enters their teenage years

Teen boy with red hair and braces

Setting expectations

As a valuable partner in your child’s oral health, there are many things that parents can do to help make your child’s dental visits as pleasant as possible. A child’s behavior is not always predictable, but our pediatric specialists are trained to manage their fears and concerns, giving them—and you—lots of reasons to smile.

Brother hugging his sister who is sitting in a dentist chair

About Southmoor Pediatric Dentistry

As the first pediatric dental practice in Colorado, Southmoor has cared for more children and more parents than any other practice. Our patient-centered approach means that we treat every single patient like family—and we’ve been doing it for generations. Come experience the Southmoor difference today.

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Our patients (and their parents) say it best

Ashton C.

What I love most about Kristo Orthodontics is the friendliness of the staff. Either on the phone or in office, the staff are always about customer satisfaction and making sure everyone is comfortable.

Ashton C.

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