Pediatric Dentistry in Gilmer, TX
Dr. Furniss and our team love working with kids – because we're parents too. With four children of his own, Dr. Furniss understands what it takes to make dental visits fun, comfortable, and comfortable for your little ones.
Schedule Your Child's VisitA Dental Home Your Kids Will Actually Like
Families from Gilmer, Longview, Pittsburg, and Big Sandy trust us with their children's smiles
Parents Who Get It
Dr. Furniss has four children, and all of our staff are parents too. We understand the wiggles, the nerves, and the tears.
Gentle & Patient
We go at your child's pace. Nitrous sedation (laughing gas) is available for nervous little ones who need extra comfort.
All Ages Welcome
From baby's first tooth to teenage braces consultations, we see children of all ages and refer to specialists when needed.
Your Child's First Dental Visit
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends bringing your child in by their first birthday – or within six months of their first tooth. We know that sounds early, but these first visits are more about building comfort than anything else.
Here's what to expect when you bring your little one to our Gilmer office for the first time:
- A gentle exam of teeth, gums, and jaw development
- Cleaning if your child is comfortable with it
- Fluoride treatment to strengthen developing teeth
- Tips on brushing, diet, and thumb-sucking habits
- Plenty of patience – we never rush a nervous child
Tips for Parents
A positive first experience sets the tone for a lifetime of healthy dental habits. Here are a few things you can do to help:
- Start brushing with a soft infant brush as soon as the first tooth appears
- Use a rice-grain-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste until age 3, then pea-sized
- Talk positively about the dentist – avoid words like "hurt" or "shot"
- Schedule morning appointments when kids are well-rested
- Let them bring a comfort toy or blanket – we don't mind at all
- Begin flossing when two teeth touch each other
Expert Care for Children's Teeth
Here at Furniss Family Dentistry, we believe children's teeth are incredibly important. Dr. Furniss has 4 small children and many of our staff have kids as well. Primary teeth are not only important for proper nutrition but also to maintain space and assist the proper development of adult teeth. We are happy to see children of all ages and we recommend regular visits every 6 months beginning at age 1, or when primary teeth begin to erupt.
Children typically do very well in our office. For the very nervous patients, we offer conscious nitrous sedation (laughing gas). Some cases require the care only a specialist can offer. Part of your child's initial visit includes an assessment to determine the need for specialty care. In the event your child does need specialty care, we have a fantastic pediatric specialist we can refer you to.
One of the most important things you can do for your child is to take care of their teeth. Until children are around age 10-12 they do not have the dexterity to really clean their teeth well on their own and should have parental help with nightly brushing and especially flossing. Additionally, fluoride toothpaste should be used as soon as the child is able to spit out the toothpaste after brushing (usually age 3-4).
Your Journey to a Beautiful Smile
Getting started is easy with our simple three-step process
Call
Schedule a complimentary one-on-one consultation with Dr. Furniss to discuss your dental goals and concerns.
Dream
We'll develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs, budget, and goals for your future smile.
Smile
Achieve results that support a lifetime of health and happiness. Smile with confidence every day.
Pediatric Dentistry for Gilmer, TX & East Texas
Furniss Family Dentistry proudly serves patients from across East Texas, including Gilmer, Longview, Tyler, Pittsburg, Big Sandy, Ore City, Gladewater, and Marshall. Our pediatric dentistry patients travel from throughout Upshur County and surrounding communities for quality, affordable care.
Ready for a Stress-Free Dental Visit?
Schedule your complimentary consultation today and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile.