“It’s such a joy to serve friends and neighbors in our community—it brings me so much pride to help them grow into healthy adults, and to be there for them whenever I’m needed!”
Loveland Pediatric Dentistry’s a very busy place—one Dr. Lauren Capozza is proud of, along with her growing reputation. “Loveland itself is a vibrant community, and we realized that many young families were looking for dental care closer to home,” she notes. “Word about our practice spread quickly—and so did a better understanding of the value of specialized pediatric care.”
That specialized care includes adventure-themed decor, which includes many of Loveland’s most popular outdoor activities (kayaking, hiking, biking). Also popular—and remarkably unique—a special sensory room that offers a calm, inviting nontraditional dental visit experience to very young children or those with special needs.
“We were also the first in the area to offer a prize wall kids can see as they enter, to motivate them through an appointment!” Dr. Lauren adds. She’s proud of the attention her practice provides to those who are developing their own dental health.
Of course, few things are more valuable than a bright smile, and proper dental care begins at a young age.
“Teeth are important for eating, speaking, and social interactions—including smiling!” she reminds us. “Many underestimate the importance of their teeth until a problem comes up. Often with simple preventative maintenance, painful and costly problems can be avoided.”
Starting Care: Babies.
For any teeth that are touching, “Floss daily!” Dr. Lauren says, starting as soon as those teeth come in.
Next Steps: Toddlers.
Brush and floss for your child until age 7—longer if they aren’t doing an adequate job. Children can practice on their own, but they simply don’t have the dexterity to do a proper job until they can tie their shoes, write their names, and use a knife and fork properly.
Checklist: Middle School.
“This is a common time for orthodontics,” Dr. Lauren notes, which can make routine tasks like brushing and flossing much harder. “Consider taking your child in for an extra cleaning if he or she has a hard time at home—ask about adding prescription fluoride products. Not taking good care of teeth around braces can cause unsightly white scarring or decay around the brackets.”
Finishing Up: Teenagers.
Obviously, teens are independent when it comes to dietary choices, so it’s especially important to make sure they have healthy options (and established practices) at home. “Neglecting self care, sudden tooth decay or erosion—those can be symptoms of mental health issues or substance abuse disorders.” So even though your kiddos are self-reliant? It’s still important to pay attention to their teeth.
All Ages
Dr. Lauren also shares tips that apply to almost everyone, regardless of age. First all-around reminder? See a dentist twice a year for preventive care.
All Talk
Discuss dental visits and hygiene with your kids, so they learn the value of good oral health care (and won’t be afraid of seeing the dentist!).
All Fluoride
“Fluoride toothpaste is recommended for all ages, including babies!” The key is how much to use—rice grain-size for infants, pea-size for preschool and early elementary, and any amount at age 10 and up.
PediatricDentistLoveland.com | 10570 Loveland Madeira Rd | 513.806.2060
