Toddler & Infant Dental Care in Calgary | Onyx Dental
At Onyx Dental Care, we believe healthy smiles start early. Our team is passionate about supporting families through each stage of oral health development. That’s why we provide trusted, gentle, and accessible infant dental care in Calgary to give your child the best start possible.
Why Infant Dental Care Matters
Strong baby teeth set the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Baby teeth support chewing, speaking, and proper alignment of adult teeth. Some baby teeth remain in place until 12–13 years of age, so keeping them healthy is essential.
Dental care starts even before teeth appear — by gently cleaning your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth. Once teeth erupt, brushing and regular exams become key to prevention.
Understanding Early Childhood Tooth Decay
Tooth decay in infants and toddlers — also known as early childhood cavities — is common but preventable. It can begin as soon as the first tooth appears. Without treatment, decay can lead to pain, infection, and even damage the developing adult tooth underneath.
Common causes of early childhood decay:
- Frequent snacking on sugary or sticky foods
- Prolonged use of bottles or sippy cups with milk or juice
- Poor brushing habits
- Using non-fluoride toothpaste
- Sharing spoons or soothers (which can transfer cavity-causing bacteria)
Tips to Prevent Tooth Decay in Young Children
- Start cleaning gums early — even before teeth appear
- Brush twice daily with a rice-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste once the first tooth comes in
- Increase to a pea-sized amount at age 3
- Use a soft-bristled infant toothbrush
- Lift the lip to check for white or brown spots (signs of early decay)
- Encourage drinking plain water between meals
- Avoid juice or milk at bedtime
When Should My Child Visit the Dentist?
The Canadian Dental Association recommends a first dental visit by age 1 or within 6 months of the first tooth. Early visits help us:
Monitor development
Offer brushing and feeding advice
Discuss fluoride use
Catch early signs of decay
Our Calgary team makes these visits fun and friendly to build trust and ease anxiety.
What About Teething and Soothers?
Teething typically begins around 6 months. Comfort your child with:
• A clean, chilled teething ring or wet cloth
• Avoid sugary teething cookies or biscuits
When using a soother:
• Choose the right size and keep it clean
• Never dip it in sweet substances
• Begin weaning off the soother by age 2–3 or sooner!
Fluoride and Your Child’s Smile
Fluoride is a safe and effective way to strengthen enamel and prevent decay. We recommend:
- Using fluoride toothpaste (in appropriate amounts)
- Professional fluoride applications during cleanings
- Discussing supplemental fluoride if your local water supply is non-fluoridated
Start Your Toddler & infant Dental Care with Onyx
We specialize in family and pediatric dental care that’s calm, gentle, and educational. We’ll guide you every step of the way to ensure your child develops healthy habits early.
📍 Located in Central Calgary, we’re currently accepting new patients — including infants and toddlers.
Book your child’s first visit with us today and let’s grow a healthy smile together.