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Preventive Care

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Bright Smiles Begin with Gentle, Preventive Care in Carolina Forest.

At Sawgrass Pediatric Dentistry, we believe keeping smiles healthy should be fun, gentle, and stress-free.

Preventive dental care is the foundation for a lifetime of healthy teeth and happy kids. Dr. Ryan and our team love helping families in Carolina Forest, Myrtle Beach, and surrounding communities protect those precious smiles — starting from the very first tooth!

What Happens During a Preventive Visit?

Our preventive visits are designed to be gentle, educational, and — yes — even a little fun!

During your child’s visit, we’ll:

  • Gently examine teeth, gums, and bite

  • Check for cavities or early signs of dental concerns

  • Clean and polish teeth to remove plaque

  • Apply fluoride for strong enamel (if recommended)

  • Talk with you about brushing, flossing, and healthy snacks

  • Answer any questions you have about your child’s dental health

Dr. Ryan loves sharing tips with parents and grandparents to help keep kids’ smiles shining at home.

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Extra Protection for Growing Smiles

Sometimes, little grooves in kids’ teeth make it easy for cavities to sneak in. That’s where sealants come in!

Dental Sealants​

  • Thin protective coating on molars

  • Helps prevent cavities in hard-to-reach places

  • Quick, painless application

  • Fluoride Treatments

Strengthens enamel

  • Helps prevent cavities

  • Safe and easy for kids

Dr. Ryan will let you know if sealants or fluoride are a good fit for your child.

Everything You Need to Know

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends children visit the dentist every six months for preventive care. Regular checkups help monitor oral health, detect early signs of cavities or gum disease, and provide professional cleanings to maintain strong and healthy teeth.

  • No, dental cleanings are gentle and designed to be painless. Our team uses child-friendly techniques to ensure a comfortable experience. If your child experiences sensitivity, we can adjustto ensure they remain relaxed throughout the procedure.

  • Early detection allows dentists to identify issues like cavities, misalignment, or gum disease before they become serious. Catching problems early means less invasive treatments, lower costs, and better oral health outcomes for your child in the long run.

  • Yes, our expert preventative dentistry in South Carolina offers children with special healthcare needs. Our team is trained to provide gentle, compassionate care in a supportive environment, ensuring a comfortable and positive experience tailored to each child’s unique requirements.

  • To help your child feel comfortable, speak positively about the dentist, read age-appropriate books about dental visits, and play pretend dentist games. Arrive early, bring their favorite toy, and reassure them that the visit will be fun and stress-free.

  • Your child should see a pediatric dentist by their first birthday or when their first tooth emerges. Early dental visits help establisha strong foundation for oral health, ensure proper tooth development, and allow dentists to provide guidance on teething, brushing, and diet.

  • Yes, preventive dentistry for kids is designed to reduce the risk of cavities through professional cleanings, fluoride treatments, and sealants. Regular visits help identify early signs of decay, allowing for timely intervention and ensuring long-term oral health for your child.

  • Yes, fluoride treatments are completely safe and highly recommended by dental professionals. Fluoride strengthens enamel, making teeth more resistant to decay. When applied in the correct amounts, it helps prevent cavities and supports the overall oral health of growing children.

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Monday

8am – 3pm

Tuesday

8am – 3pm

Wednesday

8am – 3pm

Thursday

8am – 3pm

Friday

8am – 12pm

Let us help you keep those little smiles shining!

Why Start Dental Care Early?

Healthy habits begin young — and early dental visits help prevent problems before they start. When kids visit regularly:

  • Cavities can be caught early (or prevented altogether!)

  • Kids learn that dental visits aren’t scary

  • Parents get tips on home care, nutrition, and oral development

  • Dentists can spot issues like crowding, tongue ties, or bite concerns

Whether your child is a tiny toddler or a growing teen, we’re here to keep their smile bright and healthy.

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