Choosing a dentist for your child means finding someone you trust to care for their teeth as they grow. While pediatric dentists specialize in treating children, many families choose a family dentist who can care for everyone in the household. What matters most is finding a practice that understands your child’s needs and helps them feel comfortable during their visits.
At Sopris Smiles in Englewood, Dr. Golnaz and our team provide family dental care for patients of all ages, including children. Although we’re not a pediatric specialty practice, we enjoy getting to know the families we treat and helping kids build healthy dental habits early on. Whether it’s your child’s first appointment or they’re due for a checkup, we’re here to help make dental visits a positive experience.
Pediatric dentists receive additional training focused on children’s dental needs, which can be especially helpful for children with complex medical or developmental conditions. However, most children can receive quality dental care from a family dentist, including routine exams, cleanings, and preventive treatments. Seeing the same dentist regularly also gives children a chance to become familiar with the office while their dentist monitors how their teeth and jaws develop.
At Sopris Smiles, Dr. Golnaz and our team provide dental care for children and adults. We can help you decide whether our practice is a good fit for your child’s needs or if seeing a pediatric specialist would be beneficial. For families planning regular visits, our dental wellness plans include options for children under 2 through age 12, making it easier to budget for ongoing care.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a first dental exam when the first tooth appears and no later than 12 months of age, with follow-up visits about every six months or as your child’s needs call for. Seeing a dentist early can help families spot concerns sooner and can help children get comfortable with the dental team.
A first visit can be short and focused on helping your child feel at ease. It often includes a gentle look at teeth and gums, a conversation about brushing and snacks, and plenty of time for your questions. Sharing a few simple words about what a dentist does, or bringing a favorite stuffed animal, can make the day feel easier. We are happy to adjust the pace to your child’s age and comfort.
Dental sealants are thin coatings placed over the grooves of back teeth to help prevent cavities. They’re especially useful for children and teens whose permanent molars have recently come in, because those teeth can be difficult to clean thoroughly. The dental sealant process is usually quick and painless.
Fluoride treatments can also help protect your child’s teeth by strengthening enamel and making it more resistant to decay. How often your child needs fluoride depends on their risk of developing cavities. We can help you figure out how much fluoride toothpaste to use at different ages and answer questions about fluoride in drinking water. Along with regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups, these treatments can help keep your child’s teeth healthy as they grow.
There’s more to your child’s dental health than preventing cavities. As their teeth and jaws develop, certain habits and changes may be worth discussing with your dentist. Some common concerns include:
At Sopris Smiles, we check for concerns such as mouth breathing, snoring, and tongue-tie during children’s dental visits. We also work with a board-certified orthodontist when a referral is needed. Children are often encouraged to have their first orthodontic evaluation around age 7, although some may benefit from an earlier evaluation if a concern arises. If you’ve noticed something unusual about your child’s teeth, bite, or breathing, bring it up at their next appointment so we can help determine whether a closer look is needed.
Finding the right dentist is essential to care for their teeth as they grow. Dr. Golnaz and our team provide dental care for the whole family, from young children to adults. We take the time to understand your child’s needs, answer your questions, and help them feel more comfortable with dental visits.
Your child’s first checkup is a great opportunity to ask about preventive care, dental development, and habits that may affect their growing smile. We can also discuss treatments such as sealants or help you determine when a pediatric specialist might be a better fit. Contact our team to schedule a visit. We look forward to welcoming you and your family to our Englewood office.
We’re conveniently located in Englewood, CO, serving both Englewood and Cherry Hills communities in the charming Marks complex. Our office offers free, dedicated parking in an abundant on-site lot, ensuring a stress-free arrival for every visit. Located just off Hampden Ave (US-285) with quick access to Broadway, Lincoln, I-25, and C-470, we’re perfectly positioned for easy access from all parts of the Denver metro area. Whether you’re driving or taking public transit, getting to your appointment has never been more convenient.
