Every child deserves a positive and fun dental experience that sets the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles. At Sonshine Family Dental, Dr. Steven Driggers and Dr. Samuel Driggers provide gentle, compassionate pediatric dentistry for children of all ages. Our goal is to create a warm, welcoming environment where young patients feel safe, confident, and excited about caring for their teeth. From your child’s first visit to their teenage years, our team is dedicated to guiding healthy habits that last a lifetime.
Why Early Dental Care Matters
Your child’s first dental visit should take place around their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting. Early visits help establish a foundation of trust and allow our team to monitor tooth development, jaw growth, and oral hygiene habits. By detecting and addressing issues early, such as cavities or misalignment, we can often prevent more extensive treatment later in life. Regular checkups at Sonshine Family Dental also teach children the importance of caring for their smiles and reduce the likelihood of dental anxiety.
Comprehensive Pediatric Services
We offer a complete range of pediatric dental services to meet your child’s growing needs, including:
- Comprehensive exams and cleanings
- Fluoride treatments for stronger enamel
- Dental sealants to protect back teeth from decay
- Tooth-colored fillings for gentle cavity repair
- Space maintainers to guide proper tooth alignment
- Early orthodontic evaluations
- Emergency dental care for accidents or injuries
Each treatment is performed with your child’s comfort in mind. We use kid-friendly explanations, calm tones, and gentle techniques so every visit is positive and stress-free.
Teaching Good Habits Early
Good oral hygiene habits begin at home. Dr. Steven Driggers and Dr. Samuel Driggers take time to teach both parents and children about effective brushing and flossing, healthy eating choices, and how to prevent cavities. We emphasize consistency and fun—showing kids that taking care of their teeth can be something they look forward to.
Encouraging children to brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste helps build a strong routine. Parents should supervise brushing until their child can do it effectively on their own, usually around age 7 or 8.
Creating Positive Dental Experiences
At Sonshine Family Dental, our team believes that early dental care should be engaging, educational, and comfortable. We tailor every appointment to the child’s age and personality, celebrating milestones and rewarding progress. For nervous patients, we offer gentle reassurance, distraction techniques, and a calm, child-centered approach that turns dental visits into something to smile about.
Preventing Cavities and Dental Anxiety
Regular cleanings, fluoride, and sealants are key to preventing cavities, especially as children begin eating more solid foods and sugary snacks. Preventive visits also give us a chance to monitor bite development and address any concerns before they become serious. When children have positive dental experiences early, they are far less likely to fear dental care as adults.
Schedule Your Child’s Visit
We love helping young patients grow into confident, healthy adults with strong smiles. Call Sonshine Family Dental today at 317-271-1330 to schedule your child’s next appointment with Dr. Steven Driggers or Dr. Samuel Driggers. Our office in Avon, Indiana is designed to make every visit friendly, educational, and fun—because great dental habits begin with great experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Should My Child First Visit the Dentist?
Your child should have their first dental appointment by their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth appears. Early visits allow Dr. Steven Driggers and Dr. Samuel Driggers to monitor growth, provide guidance, and help your child get comfortable with dental care from the start.
How Can I Help Prevent Cavities at Home?
Encourage brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and assist your child until they can brush effectively. Limit sugary snacks and drinks, and offer water between meals. Regular checkups at Sonshine Family Dental with cleanings and fluoride treatments also play a key role in preventing cavities.
Are Dental X-Rays Safe for Children?
Yes. Modern digital X-rays use very low radiation and are safe for children. At Sonshine Family Dental, we only take X-rays when necessary to monitor tooth development, detect cavities between teeth, or assess jaw growth. We use protective aprons and high-speed sensors for added safety.
What If My Child Is Afraid of the Dentist?
It is completely normal for children to feel nervous. Our team takes a gentle, reassuring approach, explaining each step in fun, easy-to-understand language. Parents can stay with their child during the visit, and we take extra time to ensure every experience is positive and comforting.