Pediatric Dentistry in Lakewood

In 2013, the American Dental Association (ADA) launched a campaign nationwide to bring preventive dentistry to communities after they learned that around half of the population of adults age 30 suffer from some form of gum disease and 1 in 4 children age under five already has a cavity. Dr Nam is committed to doing everything she can to support ADA's advocacy to help the Lakewood and Englewood communities achieve and maintain better oral health through preventive dentistry.

Dr. Nam has a passion for seeing her young patients grow up with a healthy smile, offering free infant exams and dentistry for babies. Early childhood caries can be avoided with learning the importance of daily tooth brushing and use of dental floss.

Pediatric Dentistry has more Treatment options than what general dentists can offer when it comes to treating children. Pediatric dentists are specialists who have dedicated their time to addressing the oral conditions of infants, adolescents, children, and patients with special needs, including the autistic child. Dr. Nam has dedicated two additional years of special child centric dental training and education after she finished dental school so that she could treat children or teens with her specialized skills and individualized attention to their unique needs. Pediatric Dentistry training includes studying child psychology, development, and growth along with the exposure to the dental and emotional needs of the growing children, as well as treating those with autism.  The focus of Dr. Nam is on your children, and our goal is to offer them a safe environment that promotes excellent oral hygiene habits, and a healthy attitude towards dental health and dental visits. Even fearful and anxious children can be treated with the gentle manner of Dr. Nam, and sedation with laughing gas or other methods to help manage anxiety while having a treatment.

One of the most significant advantages, when you become a member of the Hardy Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, is that you have both pediatric and orthodontic services housed in the same office. Your child can transition from his or her time with Dr. Nam in pediatrics to orthodontics easily. When the time comes for your child's teeth to be fixed, he or she won't fear going to an orthodontist as the place is already familiar to them. Our Colorodo Pediatric Dentistry Services are unmatched. The facility has enough space to separate pediatric and orthodontic disciplines to give younger patients the advantage of a dental home from age one until they transition to wearing braces. It also won't let teens and adults feel uncomfortable for getting braces at a "kiddie" dentist. The advanced dentistry offered by pediatrics and orthodontics will make sure that the family receives the best care that science and medicine can offer in a kind and gentle approach. Our well-trained staff and highly developed systems allow patients and parents to transition easily throughout the process. Hardy Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics near Lakewood accepts most dental insurances, and provides affordable dental care even without insurance. 

Pediatric dental services can offer more than you can get from a general dentist. A pediatric dentist specializes in the oral health of the infant, children, adolescents, and patients with special needs. The following are the pediatric services offered at Hardy Dental Group:

Laser Dentistry

Dr. Nam is proud to provide the latest in dental technology with laser dentistry. As of today, Dr. Nam is the only dentist in Colorado that we are aware of that can provide you with this type of treatment. Laser Dentistry has accomplished what scientists and dentists have been working hard to succeed on for years - making a cavity procedure shot-free and drill-free. Laser dentistry also offers treatment for canker sores, tip, and tongue ties (frenectomies).

Digital X-Rays (Radiographs)

Children need x-rays more than adults because it determines the progress of the growth of their mouths. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that x-ray examinations should occur every six months as children are at high risk of tooth decay. We'll use digital radiography as it is not only faster but safer than traditional x-rays. Digital emits approximately 1/4 of the radiation compared to conventional x-rays.

Tooth-Colored Fillings (Composite Resin)

Tooth-colored fillings are used to restore the back or front teeth where looks are more important. Composites are used to repair fractured teeth and the areas of decay. The shade of the composite restorative material is closely matched to the color of the natural teeth.

Dental Cleaning (Prophylaxis)

Under this service, the teeth are cleaned properly to get rid of the plaque and hard tartar deposits, which can cause gum disease and cavities. For a healthy child's teeth, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends visiting the pediatric dentist at least twice a year to determine the condition of your child's development and oral health. However, if your child is more predisposed to tooth decay or has special needs, Dr. Nam may suggest more cleaning and exams. Fluoride is applied to the teeth after cleaning to help strengthen and protect your tooth enamel and prevent decay.

Fluoride

According to the American Dental Association, fluoride has helped reduce the development of tooth decay for several years. Fluoride is essential for both children and adults in helping to fight cavities and tooth decay.

Extractions (Tooth Removal)

Tooth extractions are done only as a last resort and are only performed in severe cases of infection. If the primary molar is extracted prematurely, a space maintainer is placed. Some extractions are needed to help facilitate tooth alignment, particularly when there is crowding of the teeth.

Dental Sealants

A dental sealant is a clear or white thin plastic coating applied to the chewing surface of the tooth. This helps to shield the enamel from decay by "sealing out" plaque, food, and bacteria. Dental sealants are made to prevent the need for dental fillings and need no drilling to the dentin or enamel to be applied. What is excellent about dental sealants is that they are invisible - no one will notice that you have a dental sealant in your teeth, but it can make a massive difference in the oral health of your child. Remember that with good oral hygiene and proper diet is also essential in preventing cavities.