Book Trusted Pediatric Dental Care Near Hamilton Downtown Core

I am Dr. Cindy Li, and I enjoy helping Hamilton families feel confident about their dental health. From my office at Excel Dental, 49 East Avenue South, I focus on gentle, practical pediatric dental care for children of all ages who live in and around downtown Hamilton.

What I Offer for Children

I provide a full spectrum of kid-focused dental care, including routine checkups, cleanings, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants to help prevent cavities. I tailor each visit to the child’s age and temperament so they leave with a positive view of dental care.

I also manage early childhood caries and common pediatric issues like chipped or discolored teeth. When a child needs a restorative filling or a stainless-steel crown, I explain options in simple terms so parents can make informed choices with me.

Preparing for Your Child’s First Visit

I recommend bringing your child for their first dental visit by their first birthday or when the first tooth appears. Early visits are brief and mostly about building trust; I examine the mouth, answer parental questions, and demonstrate home care in a relaxed way.

To prepare, tell stories about the visit rather than using scary words. Bring a favorite toy, and plan a calm arrival time. In my experience, children who come early and often feel more comfortable as they grow.

Preventive Care I Recommend

Daily brushing with a smear of fluoride toothpaste for infants and a pea-sized amount for older children is a cornerstone of prevention. I coach parents on brushing technique and the right amount of fluoride based on the child’s age and risk for cavities.

I also recommend routine topical fluoride applications in the office and dental sealants for back teeth when appropriate. These measures significantly reduce the chance of cavities and save families time, discomfort, and expense later.

Comfort and Safety in My Practice

I prioritize a calm, friendly environment and use behavior guidance techniques that respect each child’s feelings. If a child is anxious, I take time to show instruments and let them touch safe items so they gain confidence.

For certain procedures, I offer nitrous oxide to ease anxiety in a safe, controlled way, and I always follow strict clinical and sterilization protocols. My team and I keep up with pediatric safety guidelines to protect every patient.

Handling Dental Emergencies

I see many types of emergencies, including knocked-out teeth, severe toothaches, and traumatic injuries from falls. If a permanent tooth is knocked out, quick action can save it; keep the tooth moist and call the office right away.

For pain or swelling, I advise parents to contact us immediately so we can assess whether same-day care is needed. I also give clear home-care instructions for minor bumps and bruises until we can evaluate the child in the clinic.

Fees, Insurance, and Booking

I work with families who have a variety of dental insurance plans and I’m happy to help verify benefits before a visit. My front desk staff will explain estimated costs for common procedures so there are no surprises.

Booking is flexible to accommodate school and work schedules, and I encourage regular checkups every six months unless we decide on a different interval based on your child’s needs. When a child needs more frequent care, I explain the reasons and expected outcomes.

FAQ
When should my child first see a dentist?
I recommend a first visit by the time the first tooth appears or by their first birthday. Early visits help me check growth, advise on feeding and fluoride, and start a positive dental habit.

How often should my child have dental cleanings?
In my practice, I usually suggest cleanings every six months for most children. If a child has high cavity risk, I may recommend more frequent visits to monitor and manage issues.

Are fluoride treatments safe for kids?
Yes. When used at the right age and amount, fluoride is a safe, effective way to prevent cavities. I tailor fluoride use to each child’s age and risk profile.

What can I do to prevent baby bottle tooth decay?
Avoid putting your child to bed with a bottle of milk or juice. Encourage drinking from a cup by 12 to 18 months and clean the gums and emerging teeth after feeds.

Does my child need dental X-rays?
I take X-rays only when clinically necessary. They help detect problems between teeth or below the gum line that we cannot see with a visual exam. I use the lowest doses and protective measures appropriate for children.

How do you handle a child who is very anxious?
I use gentle behavior guidance, communication, and gradual exposure. For some children, nitrous oxide helps reduce anxiety so we can complete needed care comfortably.

When should I be worried about a chipped tooth?
If your child chips a tooth, contact me promptly. If it is a permanent tooth and a large piece is missing or the tooth is loose, we need to see it right away to preserve structure and function.

Are sealants necessary for my child?
Sealants are an excellent preventive option for the chewing surfaces of back teeth. I recommend them when the grooves on those teeth are deep and at risk for cavities.

Can thumb-sucking cause dental problems?
Prolonged thumb-sucking can affect tooth alignment and bite. I work with families on gentle strategies to reduce the habit and monitor dental development.

What should I do if my child has a severe toothache?
Call us immediately. I will ask about symptoms and may arrange same-day care. In the meantime, use age-appropriate pain relief and avoid placing aspirin on the gums.

More Information
For reliable guidance about pediatric oral health and local regulations, see the Ontario Dental Association at https://www.oda.ca for professional dental care tips and resources, and the College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario via https://www.cdsontario.org for licensing and safety standards. The Canadian Dental Association at https://www.cda-adc.ca also offers national patient information on preventive care and treatment options.

If you’d like to schedule an appointment or have a quick question, please call my office at 905-529-2164 — I’m happy to help.