Pediatric Dentist For Babies In Dacono, CO
Before your baby’s first tooth even appears, we are here to help you establish good oral health habits.
Our pediatric dental team specializes in baby dental care, and we’re dedicated to positive dental experiences for your little one from infancy through the teen years.
Why Early Dental Care Matters for Your Baby
Before your baby's first tooth even appears, we are here to help you establish good oral health habits. Our pediatric dental team at Mini Miners specializes in infant dental care, and we are dedicated to creating positive dental experiences for your little one from infancy through the teen years.
Many parents are surprised to learn that dental care should begin so early. The truth is that tooth decay can develop as soon as teeth emerge, and cavities are five times more common than asthma in young children. Starting dental visits early allows us to catch potential problems before they become serious, educate parents on proper oral care techniques, and help your baby become comfortable with the dentist from the very beginning.
As a trusted pediatric dentist for babies in Dacono, CO and surrounding communities, Mini Miners provides the specialized, gentle care your infant deserves. Dr. Alison Grover completed her Pediatric Dental Residency at UCLA, holds a degree in child psychology from Wellesley College, and understands both the clinical and emotional needs of your youngest family members.
When Should Your Baby First See the Dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling your baby's first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth emerges, whichever comes first. Most babies get their first tooth around 6 months old, though timing varies from child to child.
This early visit is not just a quick look at tiny teeth. It establishes your baby's dental home, where they will receive consistent care and build comfort with dental visits over time.
What Happens at Baby's First Dental Visit
At your baby's first appointment, our team will gently examine your infant's existing teeth and gums, check for proper oral development and identify any potential issues early, show you how to care for your baby's teeth and discuss fluoride use and flossing, address habits like pacifier use or thumb sucking, and answer all your questions about your baby's oral health.
Parents hold their baby on their lap during the examination. This position keeps your little one comfortable and allows our team to perform a thorough yet gentle assessment.
Parents across the Dacono area and Carbon Valley region trust Mini Miners with their babies' first dental experiences. One family shared that they drive all the way from Estes Park because of the amazing, caring team. That dedication speaks to the relationships we build with every family.
Our Google reviews consistently highlight how gentle and patient our team is with infants, how Dr. Grover takes time to educate parents, and how comfortable babies remain throughout their visits.
We have been providing specialized infant dental care since 2017 and take pride in watching our youngest patients grow up with healthy smiles and positive attitudes about dental care.
Trusted by Families Throughout the Carbon Valley
Your Baby's Complete Oral Care Guide
Caring for your baby's mouth begins even before teeth appear. Here is everything you need to know about infant oral health.
Caring for Baby's Gums Before Teeth Appear
Even before teeth emerge, starting an oral care routine helps remove bacteria and gets your baby used to having their mouth cleaned. We recommend cleaning your baby's gums twice daily with a soft, damp washcloth or silicone finger brush and gently wiping gums after feedings and before bedtime.
When Baby's First Teeth Appear
Most babies get their first tooth around 6 months, though this timing can vary. When those tiny teeth begin to appear, start using an infant sized toothbrush with soft bristles, use a smear (rice grain sized amount) of fluoride toothpaste, brush gently twice daily in the morning and before bedtime, and hold your baby in a position where you can see their mouth clearly.
Easing Teething Discomfort
Teething can be painful for babies and challenging for parents. Signs of teething include increased drooling, irritability or fussiness, swollen and tender gums, desire to chew on hard objects, and slight temperature elevation.
To help soothe your teething baby, offer clean, cold (not frozen) teething rings, gently massage your baby's gums with a clean finger, provide a cold, clean washcloth to chew on, and talk to your pediatrician about safe pain relief options if needed.
Preventing Baby Bottle Tooth Decay
Early childhood cavities can develop when babies are regularly exposed to sugary liquids for extended periods. To protect your baby's teeth, never put your baby to bed with a bottle containing milk, formula, juice, or sugary drinks. Breastmilk on teeth all night may lead to dental decay just like regular milk. If a bedtime bottle is necessary, fill it with water only. Begin transitioning to a cup around 6 to 9 months, wean from the bottle between 12 and 14 months, and clean your baby's teeth after feedings, especially before sleep.
Ten Common Situations Parents of Babies Face
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Your baby just got their first tooth and you want to establish care with a specialist who understands infant dental needs
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You are a new parent unsure about when to schedule that important first dental visit
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Your baby is struggling with breastfeeding and you suspect a possible tongue tie
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You noticed white spots or discoloration on your baby's emerging teeth
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Your pediatrician recommended finding a pediatric dentist before your baby's first birthday
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You want guidance on proper brushing techniques for tiny teeth and gums
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Your baby seems to be in discomfort from teething and you need professional advice
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You are concerned about thumb sucking or pacifier habits affecting dental development
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Your older baby has visible decay and you need a gentle, experienced team to address it
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You recently moved to the Dacono area and need to establish dental care for your infant
Ease Your Baby’s Teething Pain
Teething can be painful and uncomfortable for babies and challenging for parents. Signs of teething often include:
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Increased drooling
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Irritability or fussiness
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Swollen, tender gums
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Desire to chew on hard objects
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Slight temperature elevation (not a high fever)
To help soothe your teething baby:
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Offer clean, cold (not frozen) teething rings
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Gently massage your baby's gums with a clean finger
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Provide a cold, clean washcloth to chew on
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Talk to your pediatrician about safe pain relief options if needed
Conveniently Located Near Dacono
Mini Miners Pediatric Dentistry is located in the heart of Erie, just a short drive from Dacono along the I 25 corridor. Families throughout the Carbon Valley region, including those near the Colorado National Speedway and the popular Firestone Trail, find our location convenient and accessible.
Our office sits in the Erie Commons shopping area at the corner of Briggs Street and Erie Parkway, between I 25 and Highway 287. We serve families from Dacono, Firestone, Frederick, Fort Lupton, Longmont, Brighton, and communities throughout Weld County. We offer easy parking and a stress free arrival experience for parents juggling car seats and diaper bags.
Will Thumb Sucking and Pacifiers Hurt My Baby’s Teeth?
When should my baby first see the dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends babies see the dentist by their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth erupts, whichever comes first. We also see newborns for tongue tie evaluations (link to Tongue Ties page) when breastfeeding difficulties arise.
Are baby teeth really important if they will fall out anyway?
Absolutely. Baby teeth hold space for permanent teeth, help with proper speech development, enable good nutrition through chewing, and contribute to your baby's smile and self image. Decay in baby teeth can also damage the permanent teeth developing beneath them.
How much does a baby dental visit cost?
If your insurance does not cover your baby's dental visits, we offer an affordable fee for infants and our Mini Miners Membership Plan . Visit our billing and insurance page to learn more about making baby dental care affordable.
How can I brush when my baby will not cooperate?
Try different positions and locations to find what works. Make brushing playful with songs or games. Let your baby hold a toy or demonstrate on a stuffed animal first. Consistency and patience are key. Brushing does not have to be a bathroom activity. Try laying your child on the couch, floor, or bed where you can see their mouth clearly.
Will thumb sucking and pacifiers hurt my baby's teeth?
Many babies use pacifiers or suck their thumbs for comfort, and this is normal in infancy. However, prolonged and frequent use can cause crooked teeth or bite problems over time. We recommend stopping pacifier use by age 2. Most children naturally stop these habits between ages 2 and 3. If your child struggles with the transition, we can provide gentle guidance.
Does my baby have a tongue tie?
As part of your baby's dental exam, we perform a basic check for tongue ties. If you suspect your baby has a tongue tie, especially if breastfeeding has been difficult, mention this at your appointment or schedule a dedicated tongue tie evaluation (link to Tongue Ties page). We use a soft tissue laser for gentle, effective treatment when needed.
Give Your Baby the Gift of a Healthy Smile
Your baby's first dental visit sets the foundation for a lifetime of good oral health. Starting early means catching problems before they develop, establishing positive associations with dental care, and giving your child the best possible start.
If you are looking for a pediatric dentist for babies in Dacono, CO who combines specialized training with genuine compassion, Mini Miners Pediatric Dentistry is here for your family. Our team looks forward to welcoming you and your little one.