Dental Services

A pediatric dentist is a specialist dedicated to the oral health of infants, children, adolescents, and patients with special health care needs. Pediatric dentists complete additional specialized training, following dental school, including behavior management, orthodontics, and pediatric medical issues.

We can provide comprehensive oral health care for children with modalities such as fillings, interceptive orthodontics, conscious sedation, and hospital dentistry.

Why are baby teeth so important? The main purpose of primary - or “baby” teeth is to function as a natural space maintainer to guide the permanent teeth into the correct position. 

These teeth can develop cavities, toothaches, and abscesses, just like a permanent tooth. Grown-ups like to be able to chew their food, and be free of tooth pain- your child feels the same way.

Preventive dental care is important throughout life, especially at a young age. Good oral hygiene at home and scheduling regular checkups with the dentist can help keep your child’s smile bright and healthy for many years to come. Good habits at home help prevent cavities as well as gum disease including gingivitis.

Here are a few simple ways to prevent the build-up of plaque and cavities:

• Make sure your child brushes their teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Use fluoride toothpaste to remove food particles and plaque from the tooth surfaces. Also be sure that they brush the top surface of their tongue; this will remove any extra plaque-causing food particles and help keep fresh breath!
• Be sure to help your child floss once per day.
• Make sure your child eats a balanced diet, and try to avoid extra-sugary treats. Nutritious foods such as raw vegetables, plain yogurt, cheese, or fruit can help keep your child's smile healthy.
• Remember to schedule regular checkups with your child’s dentist every six months for a professional teeth cleaning.
• Ask your dentist about dental sealants. These protective coatings can be applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth where decay often starts.
• If your child plays sports, be sure to ask your dentist about special mouth guards designed to protect your child’s smile.

Dental exams are scheduled and tailored to your child’s specific needs and requirements. Regular exams can help us monitor your child’s growth and development, determine if there are “bite” issues, check for lumps and bumps in the mouth and answer any of your questions or concerns regarding your child’s dental development.

Please contact our office to discuss with one of our team members (604) 983-2253.

Cavities can be prevented with proper brushing and flossing habits. Your child’s regularly scheduled dental exam not only helps to reinforce proper brushing and flossing habits but also can be an opportunity to discuss dietary habits and good snack choices.

At Pacific Pediatric Dental Centre, we use the most advanced dental technology. We utilize digital x-ray technology, which results in less radiation exposure than conventional film x-rays and results in clear, fast images.

Mild sedation - in the form of Nitrous Oxide “laughing gas”

Moderate sedation- With conscious or moderate sedation, your child will remain awake throughout the procedure but will be in a state of relaxation. Often oral medications are used with nitrous oxide.

General Anesthesia- it is very safe and is performed in an out-patient facility by a board-certified anesthesiologist. www.afd.ca

Fluoride is very safe. There are 2 forms of fluoride - systemic and topical (applied to teeth directly). Your child’s need for fluoride is best determined following a consultation with Dr. Gerry.

Sealants are an effective method to “seal” the grooves and channels found on the biting surfaces of back teeth. When the grooves are sealed, the bacteria cannot cause cavities in this area.

A space maintainer is a type of dental appliance that holds the space for a permanent tooth when a baby tooth has been lost prematurely.

Teeth tend to erupt towards open spaces, and this help prevents future orthodontic complications, including crowding of teeth.

SDF is a safe, painless alternative to traditional cavity drilling procedures. It is a liquid substance used to help prevent tooth cavities (or caries) from forming, growing, or spreading to other teeth.

SDF can be an excellent option for some children. Please call Dr. Gerry to schedule an appointment to discuss further.

Options include silver fillings, BPA-free white fillings, or white or silver crowns. Dr. Gerry will recommend the best and most durable filling based on your child’s needs.

Sports guards are required for most sports- custom fit sports guards ensure proper protection of your child’s teeth when they are actively engaged in sports.

In the unfortunate event that your child has a dental emergency- rest assured, we can help you deal with all the following.

• Knocked-Out Tooth
• Broken or Chipped Tooth
• Bitten Lip or Tongue
• Loose Tooth
• Sore Tooth
• Broken Jaw
• Sports Injuries

Please call our office if needed (604) 983-2253

Dr. Gerry has had over 20 years of experience with all children, including those with special needs. His staff and office are equipped and trained to help all children.