Children's Dentistry in Candia NH
At Hillside Family Dental Care, we have a special place in our hearts for children. When kids are little, we can teach them how to have a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime, and we take that job very seriously!
Every child we treat is unique. We want to understand your child’s needs so we can help them feel safe and comfortable with us.
Our team loves treating kids and getting to know them. The more time we spend with them now, the more likely they are to have a healthy smile that lasts long into adulthood.
Help Your Child Learn Proper Habits
As a parent, you have the important job of helping your child learn how to take care of their teeth properly. Most kids don’t have the coordination to handle a toothbrush well until they’re about six years old, so you will need to help them.
Dr. Emily Pakula and our caring team will be happy to show you how to help your child brush their teeth properly. We will also explain what foods to avoid and how healthy eating habits help promote good oral health.
Why Baby Teeth Are Important
We agree with the recommendation of the American Dental Association that says kids should have their first dental visit when the first tooth appears, but no later than their first birthday.
Your child’s baby teeth play a critical role in their future health. They hold a space for permanent teeth and are meant to stay in place until the permanent tooth is ready to appear.
If a baby tooth falls out too soon, the permanent tooth may not have enough room to come in properly. This can create more complicated and costly dental health problems for them in the future.
Keeping Dental Visits Positive
It’s also good for us to see your child early, before a problem develops. This is because we want to make sure their first dental visits are as happy and positive as possible. If we don’t see them until there’s a problem, your child may think that dental visits are scary and painful. This type of experience is the reason so many adults fear going to the dentist!
Dental Care as Your Child Grows
As your little one grows, we will monitor them to make sure everything is progressing as it should. We may recommend preventive treatments like sealants and fluoride if we think they will help your child’s oral health.
If we find a cavity, we should fill it as quickly as possible, whether it’s a baby tooth or a permanent tooth. We will work with you to ensure that your child is receiving the care they need to avoid problems and enjoy a healthy smile.
Please Call for an Appointment
Most dental insurance plans cover the cost of preventive exams and cleanings for your child, and a member of our team will be happy to assist you in filing your claim. We also accept Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA). We even offer CareCredit interest-free financing.
Dr. Pakula understands that you probably have a lot of questions about your child’s dental care, and we want to help. Please call our Candia, NH dental office at (603) 483-2176 to arrange a convenient appointment. We look forward to meeting you and your child!
My daughter actually enjoys her visits
Our daughter had several cavities and our experience here at Hillside has been great. They are so good with her and she actually enjoys coming for her visits (which sets my mind and heart at ease). I highly recommend to anyone looking for a caring dental practice.
~JN
Frequently Asked Questions
The American Dental Association recommends that all children see the dentist when their first tooth appears, but no later than age one.
You may not realize it, but a lot is happening in your child’s mouth at a very early age. Baby teeth appear even as permanent teeth are developing in the gums. The baby teeth have a very important job to do. They hold a space for the permanent teeth. This space gives permanent teeth a place to erupt properly.
If a baby tooth is lost because of decay, adjacent teeth begin to drift into the space. This closes the space meant for the permanent tooth. When the tooth does appear, it may be crooked or crowd other teeth because there isn’t enough room.
We know you want your child to enjoy the best possible oral health, and we are here to help. Our friendly team will help you understand why good oral hygiene and a healthy diet are important, even if your child is still a baby.
Whether it’s time for your child’s first visit or you just have questions about their oral health, please call our Candia, NH dental office so we can arrange a convenient appointment.
Meet Our Doctor:
Dr. Emily Pakula Moriarty
Dr. Emily Pakula Moriarty is a native of Farmington Hills, Michigan. She graduated from the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor in 2008, receiving her Bachelor of Science in Psychology. She then went on to earn her Doctorate of Dental Medicine from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in 2012. While at Tufts, Dr. Pakula was granted the Dr. Alfred Osher and Mrs. D. Suzi Osher Scholarship, which is awarded to students who have demonstrated exceptionally high standards for personal and work ethics.
Upon graduating, Dr. Pakula decided to stay in the New ...