Tooth Pals Pediatric Dentistry is a new specialty dental clinic that is the first of its kind in Airdrie. Dr. Christine Bell is hoping this facility will fill the need of a pediatric dental home for Airdrie’s young families with children.
Baby teeth can be present from about six months of age until a child is 11-14 years old. “It is very important to treat baby teeth when they have a cavity,” says Dr. Bell. “An untreated cavity will get worse, and eventually cause pain, infection and possibly cause damage to the developing adult tooth under it.” When a baby tooth is infected, it needs to be removed. This may lead to space loss, which means the teeth shift and block space for the developing adult tooth. “The child may need braces later to allow the adult teeth to grow in properly,” says Dr. Bell, noting that addressing problems early can be less expensive in the long run. Diagnosing cavities when they’re small also allows for minor, quicker and easier appointments for the child.
“I love children, and I love helping them feel more comfortable in a dental setting,” says Dr. Bell, who practiced as a pediatric dentist in Calgary for the past 11 years and is happy to now be working in a solo practice on her own. She has a nine-year-old daughter who benefits from specialized dental care, and treats all children who come through her office as her own.
No referrals are necessary, so parents can book appointments directly with the office. Many behavior guidance techniques and nitrous oxide sedation, otherwise known as laughing gas, can be used at the Tooth Pals location if indicated. However, if a child needs a dental surgery, Dr. Bell has access to an anaesthesiology team and surgical centres offsite. Dr. Bell’s goal is to provide quality comprehensive dental care to her patients and help children be comfortable in a dental setting.
The Canadian Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends the first dental visit to be no later than 12 months of age. Baby teeth are important for many reasons. “They help children eat well, speak clearly and allow adult teeth to grow in properly by holding space for them,” says Dr. Bell.
Call Tooth Pals Pediatric Dentistry to book an appointment today! 403-774-7196 | 501, 401 Cooper’s Blvd SW, Airdrie, AB T4B 4J3 | www.toothpals.ca