This Article Will Address:

• When your child should have their first dental visit
• How pediatric dentists help prevent cavities
• What dental sealants are and if your child may benefit
• Tips to prepare your child for their first appointment
• Common dental problems in children
• What to expect when you visit O’Shee Family Dentistry

As a parent, you want to make the best decisions for your child’s health—and that includes their smile. At O’Shee Family Dentistry in Baton Rouge, we’re here to support you with expert pediatric dental care in a warm, welcoming environment. Whether it’s your baby’s first tooth or your teenager’s regular checkup, our team is dedicated to making every visit easy, educational, and stress-free.

We’ve created this guide to help you understand the basics of pediatric dentistry and answer the most common questions we hear from local families. Let’s explore how you can give your child a confident, cavity-free smile that lasts a lifetime.

When Should My Child Have Their First Dentist Appointment?

The American Dental Association (ADA) and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommend that children see a dentist by their first birthday, or within six months of the first tooth appearing.

This early appointment, often called a “well-baby dental visit,” helps:

• Create a positive relationship with the dentist
• Identify and prevent early issues like bottle tooth decay
• Offer parents guidance on brushing, fluoride, and oral development

At O’Shee Family Dentistry, we make this first visit comfortable and enjoyable. Our team speaks gently, shows children what to expect, and ensures both kids and parents feel right at home.

How Can Pediatric Dentists Prevent Cavities in Kids?

Preventing cavities starts early, and we believe in building healthy habits from day one. Here’s how we help keep your child’s teeth strong and clean:

• Fluoride treatments that remineralize enamel and protect against decay
• Dental sealants on molars to block food and bacteria from getting trapped
• Routine cleanings and checkups every six months
• Parent and child education about brushing, flossing, and mouth-friendly foods
• Nutrition advice to reduce sugar exposure and encourage tooth-friendly snacks

Dr. Seth O’Shee and our team use a gentle, encouraging approach to help kids build confidence and take ownership of their oral health.

What Are Dental Sealants and Does My Child Need Them?

Sealants are a safe, protective coating applied to the grooves of back teeth—especially molars. These grooves are tough to clean thoroughly and can trap food and plaque, making them a common area for cavities.

Here’s what you should know:

• Sealants are typically applied around age 6 and again around age 12, when new molars erupt
• The process is quick, painless, and doesn’t require numbing
• They can reduce the risk of decay by up to 80% in molars

At O’Shee Family Dentistry, we assess your child’s needs during their exam and recommend sealants when appropriate. It’s one of the simplest ways to protect your child’s smile during cavity-prone years.

How Can I Prepare My Child for Their First Dental Visit?

Your child’s first trip to the dentist sets the tone for a lifetime of oral care. We recommend these tips to help them feel excited and confident:

• Use positive language—avoid scary words like “hurt” or “shot”
• Read books or watch kid-friendly videos about going to the dentist
• Schedule the appointment early in the day when your child is well-rested
• Bring a favorite toy or blanket for comfort
• Consider a pre-visit—our office welcomes families who’d like to stop by for a quick tour

Our Baton Rouge team is trained in reducing dental anxiety. We explain every step in kid-friendly terms and make sure your child leaves smiling.

What Dental Problems Are Common in Children?

Kids’ teeth are growing and changing rapidly, which makes them more vulnerable to specific dental issues. Here are some of the most common problems we see:

• Tooth decay (cavities) – the most frequent chronic disease in children
• Thumb sucking or pacifier use that affects tooth alignment
• Early tooth loss from injury or decay
• Misaligned bites (malocclusion) that can impact chewing or speech
• Gum irritation from poor brushing habits or orthodontic changes

We use digital X-rays and thorough exams to catch these issues early and provide treatments tailored to your child’s age and stage of development. We also offer emergency care for dental injuries like chipped or knocked-out teeth.

What to Expect at O’Shee Family Dentistry

Choosing a dental home is a big decision. Here’s what families love about visiting our Baton Rouge office:

• A welcoming, family-first environment that helps kids feel safe
• Compassionate care from Dr. Seth O’Shee, who’s known for his patience and gentle approach
• Advanced dental technology, including digital X-rays and 3D imaging
• Flexible scheduling and emergency appointments for busy families
• A team that values education and prevention, not just treatment

We treat every child like our own—and every parent like a partner in care.

Your Trusted Partner for Pediatric Dental Care in Baton Rouge

At O’Shee Family Dentistry, we’re honored to be the trusted pediatric dental provider for families across Baton Rouge. From the first baby tooth to the teenage years, we’ll be there to guide, support, and care for your child’s smile.

Ready to schedule your child’s visit? Contact O’Shee Family Dentistry in Baton Rouge, LA today to book your child’s dental appointment and discover how we make pediatric dentistry easy and stress-free—for both kids and parents.

Sources:

• American Dental Association (ADA)
• American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD)
• Mayo Clinic

Meet Dr. O’Shee

Dr. Seth O’Shee is a proud Louisiana native and trusted family dentist serving the Baton Rouge community. Originally from Ville Platte, Dr. O’Shee brings a small-town warmth and personal touch to every appointment. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Louisiana State University and went on to complete his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at the LSU Health Sciences Center School of Dentistry. Driven by a passion for both precision and patient connection, Dr. O’Shee finds deep satisfaction in using his hands to restore confidence through beautiful, healthy smiles.

As the lead dentist at O’Shee Family Dentistry, he emphasizes patient comfort, clinical excellence, and long-term relationships. Whether he’s treating a child at their first visit or helping an adult overcome dental anxiety, Dr. O’Shee’s compassionate approach ensures every patient feels heard and cared for. Outside of the office, he enjoys kayaking, playing video games, and cheering on LSU sports.