Preventive Pediatric Dentistry in Granville, OH
Healthy smiles don’t just happen, they grow with consistent, gentle care. At our Granville office, Dr. Matthew Pingel focuses on prevention first, helping families build strong dental habits early. The goal is simple: keep your child’s mouth healthy, comfortable, and cavity-free.
From routine checkups to early education, our team works to make every visit positive and easy for your child. We believe prevention should be reassuring, not stressful.
What Preventive Dentistry Includes
Preventive pediatric care goes beyond brushing and flossing. It’s a partnership between your family and our dental team to stop small issues before they become big ones.
Our preventive services include:
- Comprehensive exams and cleanings: Gentle, thorough visits that remove buildup and track growth.
- Fluoride treatments: Strengthen enamel and help reverse early signs of decay.
- Protective sealants: Create a smooth, protective surface on back teeth to keep out food and bacteria.
- Digital X-rays: Safe, low-radiation images that help us monitor tooth and jaw development.
- Nutritional and brushing guidance: Teaching kids (and parents) easy ways to care for their smiles at home.
Your Child’s First Visits
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a first dental visit by age one or within six months of the first tooth. Early visits help your child get comfortable and allow us to spot any issues before they cause discomfort. We keep appointments short, friendly, and focused on education, showing kids how fun caring for their teeth can be.
Why Prevention Matters
Catching problems early means fewer appointments, less cost, and less stress for your family. Regular checkups help us:
- Identify cavities while they’re still small
- Monitor growth and spacing
- Build confidence through positive experiences
- Avoid future emergencies
When children learn that dental visits are gentle and positive, they’re far more likely to stay proactive about their oral health into adulthood.
Preventive Dentistry FAQs
How often should my child visit the dentist?
Most children benefit from visits every six months, but Dr. Pingel will personalize the schedule based on your child’s needs.
Are fluoride treatments safe for kids?
Yes. Fluoride is safe, effective, and one of the best ways to strengthen enamel and prevent cavities.
What age should my child get sealants?
Sealants are usually recommended when permanent molars appear - often around ages six and twelve - but we can discuss timing at your child’s next visit.
Partnering with Families for Lifelong Smiles
Dr. Pingel and our team see prevention as teamwork. We guide, educate, and encourage families to make dental care a natural part of everyday life. Because when kids grow up unafraid of the dentist, their smiles stay healthier for years to come!