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Starting Out Right

We make your child's visits fun while laying
the foundation for lifelong dental health

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PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

At O'Kane & Monssen, our job is to make sure your child's first dental visit is fun. It’s their first impression of the dentist, and we want a lifetime of comfortable appointments. We know some kids get anxious in new situations, so our approach is to take it slow, make them feel safe and comfortable in the chair so they leave with a big smile. Our pediatric dentist in St. Paul can provide all the care your family requires.

 

FIRST VISIT TO THE DENTIST

We'd like to see your child for their first dental visit at about

2 years old. Prior to that feel free to bring your little ones to your appointments where they will go "for a ride in the chair," receive a tooth brush and a gift. With this "get to know you visit" they will be more comfortable and excited for their own first appointment.

 

PACIFIERS

We know that kids are comforted by pacifiers, but ideally your little one is no longer using one by 2 years of age. Prolonged use of pacifiers affects the growth and development of little teeth and mouths, changes the shape of the roof of the mouth, prevents proper growth of the mouth and creates problems with

tooth alignment.

 

THUMB SUCKING

Thumb sucking is a natural for kids and most outgrow the habit between 2 and 4 years old. However, when it continues into preschool years, thumb sucking is more about a response to anxiety and stress. This long-term habit can affect the position of teeth and the shape of their face creating chewing difficulties, speech abnormalities, and dental problems. We’ve created many positive incentives and rewards that can help you help your child to break the thumb sucking habit.

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Please contact us with any questions about pediatric dentistry in St. Paul, MN.

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VIDEO: When Will My Baby's Teeth Come In?

VIDEO: How To Teach Your Child To Brush Their Teeth?

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“My 8-year-old son Luke knocked out his tooth while rough housing on Thanksgiving Day. I called O’Kane & Monssen in a panic. The dentist met us at the office and placed Luke's tooth back in. It took a couple follow-ups, but O’Kane & Monssen saved his tooth. It was a permanent adult tooth he's lost! I’ve never had a doctor care so much. Their care is genuine, the real deal." 

              – Hannah L.

CARING FOR BABY'S FIRST TEETH

  • Primary teeth start coming in between
    6 and 12 months and continue until around
    3 years old.
     

  • By then, you should
    be able to count
    20 teeth. These teeth have less protective enamel and are especially susceptible
    to decay. They can get cavities from breast milk, formula and
    sugary foods.
     

  • Wipe baby teeth with
    a soft gauze or cloth
    and move to a
    soft bristle toothbrush
    with water as they age. Under 2 years, toothpaste is not needed. Make brushing their teeth     a fun
    daily activity. 

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