Children’s Dentistry
We are pleased to provide quality dentistry for everyone in your family, including children.
Our office begins seeing children at a young age to promote healthy oral habits from the start. We also work with parents on techniques and education, so they have the tools to help their children achieve and maintain healthy smiles.
Your Child's First Visit
At your child's first visit, we will help familiarize them with our dental office so they feel safe and comfortable. We will show them their teeth in the mirror, take them for a ride in the dental chair, and brush their teeth. That way, everything is already familiar to your child when we start dental cleanings and other regular care.
Preventive Care
We believe all great dental health begins with an excellent preventive routine. That is why we work with parents to create a successful home care regimen including brushing and flossing, avoiding sugary treats, and eating a good diet that promotes healthy teeth and gums.
Our dental team complements excellent home care with routine examinations and cleaning appointments. We also offer additional preventive treatments such as fluoride and sealants to keep your child's teeth healthy and strong.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a plastic coating that we apply to your child's teeth to prevent decay. If your child is at high risk for decay or has particularly deep grooves in their teeth, we can apply dental sealants to keep food and bacteria from settling in those grooves and causing cavities.
Dental sealants are less expensive and less invasive than fillings. They can last for up to five years and can be replaced once they wear off.
Gentle Treatments
For most kids, some dental treatment is eventually necessary. We are both compassionate and gentle in our approach to treating children.
We know how important it is to make sure children are comfortable and don't experience dental anxiety. When we treat children, we speak to them in language they understand and let them know what we will be doing. That way, their treatment is more effective and less scary.
If you would like to schedule an appointment for your child, give us a call. We are pleased to serve your entire family and to provide you with excellent, personalized dental care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people feel fearful about visiting the dentist, and your child is not alone. Many adults who suffer from dental anxiety report that it's from a bad experience they had at the dentist as a child.
There are a few things you can do to help prepare your child for their dental visits:
- Talk about the dentist in a positive way. Even if you have dental anxiety, be careful not to project your fear onto your child.
- Read stories or color pictures about the dentist, and even role-play visiting the dentist with their stuffed animals or toys.
- Consider bringing your son or daughter with you to the dentist when you have your next appointment. This allows them to see what it's like at the dental office.
You can also speak with your pediatric dentist about solutions they offer for relieving dental anxiety at their practice. There are options for sedation dentistry such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas) that can help your child feel at ease during most types of procedures. Be sure to discuss your concerns with your pediatric dentist before your child arrives for their appointment so you can have an effective plan in place to create a positive experience.
OUR TEAM
Dr. Matthew E. Joelson
Dr. Matthew E. Joelson has been practicing dentistry since 1997 and has been serving the community at Pierce Street Dental since 2012. His professional, compassionate approach and decades of experience make him a trusted provider for patients of all ages.
He earned his Bachelor of Science from Michigan State University, his Doctor of Dental Surgery from Northwestern University, and completed his Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) at the University of California, San Francisco.
Dr. Joelson was drawn to dentistry in high school after shadowing local ...
Children’s Dentistry Technology
Televisions in Patient Rooms
If you want a distraction while we look after your smile, having a television to watch your favorite program can be a relaxing amenity. We can also use chairside monitors to show you your intraoral photos and x-rays to help you better understand your care.