Reviewed by Dr. Adel Elbaz, DDS, general dentist · Last reviewed
A Dentist for Kids in London, Ontario
A child’s first experiences at the dentist shape how they feel about dental care for years. At Lunar Smile Dentistry we see babies, children and teens in the same office as the rest of the family, take things at your child’s pace, and keep visits short, gentle and positive.
Dr. Adel Elbaz is a general dentist who looks after patients of every age, including children. Most children’s dental care, from first visits and check-ups to fillings, can be done right here. If your child needs specialist care, for example treatment under hospital general anesthesia or a complex orthodontic problem, we’ll explain why and refer you to a certified pediatric dentist or orthodontist.
When should my child first see a dentist?
We recommend a first visit by your child’s first birthday, or within six months of their first tooth coming in. That first visit is mostly a friendly introduction:
- a quick look at the teeth and gums, often with your child on your lap
- advice on teething, brushing, bottles, sippy cups, thumb-sucking and soothers
- tips on toothpaste: a smear the size of a grain of rice for children under three, and a pea-sized amount from three to six
- a chance for your child to get used to the chair, the light and our team
Early visits catch problems while they’re small, and help children see the dentist as a normal, friendly place.
Care at every age
Babies and toddlers (0–3)
Baby teeth matter: they hold space for adult teeth, help with speech and chewing, and decay in them can cause pain and infection. We check for early signs of decay, especially from bedtime bottles or frequent snacking, and show you how to clean your child’s teeth.
Preschool and school-age children (3–12)
- Check-ups and cleanings every six months, or as we recommend for your child’s risk
- Fluoride treatment, a quick varnish that strengthens enamel
- Sealants, thin protective coatings painted into the grooves of back teeth, where most cavities in children start
- Tooth-coloured fillings when a cavity does form
- X-rays only when needed, using low-dose digital x-rays
- Watching how the bite develops, so crowding or bite problems are spotted early
Teens (13–18)
- check-ups, cleanings and advice for braces wearers
- wisdom tooth checks in the late teens, with a panoramic x-ray
- custom sports mouthguards for hockey, football, basketball and other sports
- clear aligners for suitable cases; see Invisalign
- honest talk about vaping, energy drinks and other habits that affect teeth
Making visits easy for kids
- We explain things in simple words and show them the tools first: “tell, show, do”
- Short appointments at times that suit young children
- Parents are welcome in the room
- After-school and Saturday appointments, so kids don’t miss class: we’re open until 9 pm on weekdays and on Saturdays
- Whole-family booking: siblings and parents can usually be seen back to back
- For anxious children, we can use laughing gas, virtual reality headsets and gentle computer-controlled freezing. Young children who need a lot of treatment may be best treated under general anesthesia
Tips to prepare your child
- keep it low-key and positive; avoid words like “hurt” or “needle”
- read a children’s book about visiting the dentist
- book a time when your child is usually rested
- let them bring a favourite toy
Dental emergencies in children
If your child knocks out, breaks or chips a tooth, call us right away at 226-884-2573. Don’t try to put a baby tooth back in, as this can damage the adult tooth underneath; a knocked-out adult tooth should go back in the socket or into milk as quickly as possible. See emergency dental care.
Cost and coverage
Children’s check-ups, cleanings, fluoride, sealants and fillings are covered by most family dental plans. The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) covers many children under 18 in families without dental insurance, and we bill it directly. Ontario’s Healthy Smiles Ontario program may also cover children in eligible families; ask us when you book.
Common questions
Is a general dentist or a pediatric dentist better for my child?
Most children are well looked after by a family dentist who sees kids regularly, which also lets the whole family be seen in one place. A certified pediatric dentist (a specialist with extra years of training) is a good choice for children with complex medical or behavioural needs, or who need extensive treatment under hospital general anesthesia. We’ll refer you if that’s the case.
How often should children see the dentist?
Usually every six months. Children with a higher risk of cavities may need more frequent visits; those with very low risk may need fewer. We’ll tell you what’s right for your child.
Do baby teeth really need fillings?
Often, yes. A cavity in a baby tooth can spread quickly, cause pain and infection, and affect the adult tooth underneath. Some back baby teeth stay until about age 12.
When should my child start using fluoride toothpaste?
As soon as the first tooth appears, using a tiny smear. Supervise brushing until about age eight.
Book your child’s visit
New patients of all ages are welcome, and no referral is needed; see new patients. Book online or call 226-884-2573. See also family dentistry and our parent FAQ.
Part of our family dentistry services in London, Ontario. See all dental services.