According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) Guidelines your childs first dental visit should be scheduled when their first tooth appears, or by their first birthday. At Montshire Pediatric Dentistry, we love getting to know you and your child as early as possible. Building a relationship with your child from a young age fosters trust and cooperation, setting them up for a lifetime of good oral health.

Dental x-rays have been proven to be very safe for children. We have invested heavily in state-of-the-art digital radiography equipment which creates an easier, less intimidating experience for your child. This process also results in 3 to 4 times less radiation exposure for your children (less than they would be exposed to in a 1 hour plane ride), all while creating more accurate and real-time imaging! You may also notice that we no longer use lead aprons when taking dental x-rays. This is because the ADA now recommends against their use, as they can potentially trap radiation and increase exposure.

Minimally invasive dentistry focuses on preserving as much natural tooth structure as possible. It involves using advanced techniques and materials to detect, diagnose, and treat dental issues in their earliest stages. This approach is less invasive than traditional dentistry, which often relies on more extensive treatments like fillings, crowns, bridges, and root canals. By catching problems early and using targeted, conservative treatments, minimally invasive dentistry can help patients maintain their natural teeth for longer with less discomfort and expense.

To make the most of your child's first dental appointment, please come prepared with - 1) Filled-out patient forms (patient forms will be shared with you once you have scheduled your child’s appointment) 2) If you have insurance your insurance card/information 3) A list of your child's current medications and medical conditions 4) Your child's most recent dental x-rays (if you have them). By having these documents ready, you can be fully present to support your child during their first visit.

Baby teeth play a crucial role in your child's development, even though they are temporary. They help children chew properly, aiding in nutrition and digestive health. They also assist in speech development, allowing children to learn to form words and sounds correctly. Additionally, baby teeth serve as placeholders for permanent teeth, guiding them into the proper positions as they emerge. Neglecting baby teeth can lead to decay, infection, and premature loss, which may cause misalignment of permanent teeth. Additioanlly, regular dental care for baby teeth helps establish good oral hygiene habits and ensures a healthy smile for years to come.

At Montshire, we understand that many children feel anxious about visiting the dentist. That's why we're committed to creating a calming, positive experience for every child. We encourage parent involvement, prioritizing communication and education throughout each visit. Our doctors take the time to explain findings and treatment options thoroughly, ensuring that families feel informed and comfortable. We've designed our office with soothing colors, gentle art, and soft toys to create a playful yet relaxing atmosphere. By fostering a positive relationship with dental care from an early age, we aim to help children develop a lifelong commitment to oral health without fear or anxiety.

The name Montshire is a fusion of Vermont and New Hampshire, celebrating our early beginnings. As we have expanded we have been honored to be welcomed into additional communities that we now proudly serve. Montshire symbolizes not just our history, but also the principles that drive us to deliver outstanding care to an increasing number of families.

While minimally invasive dentistry is gaining popularity, it requires specialized training and a commitment to continuous education. Dental Schools are just now beginning to teach minimally invasive methodology, which is one of the reasons our dentists are involved in advocating for the approach. We want everyone to hear about the amazing results minimally invasive dentistry provides, and we know it's only a matter of time before this becomes the standard of care.

Yes, our minimally invasive techniques are effective for adults as well as children. Adults can benefit from procedures like air abrasion, resin infiltration, and the use of glass ionomer materials, which reduce the need for drilling and can often be completed without anesthesia. Our approach is especially beneficial for adults who experience dental anxiety, have a high risk of cavities, or prefer a more conservative approach to dental care.