Blog

Caring for the smile of a child with special needs can be both meaningful and challenging. From sensory sensitivities to motor differences, everyday tasks like brushing and flossing may look very different from child to child. That’s where special needs dentistry meets practical, compassionate, at-home care.

In this blog, we’ll walk through how to understand your child’s unique needs, create ...

As a parent, it’s natural to wonder: "If baby teeth are temporary, why worry about cavities in them?" At Sierk Children’s Dentistry, we hear this question often.

In this guide, we explain pediatric dental fillings in Highlands Ranch and Castle Pines, when they’re truly necessary, and when we might take a “wait and watch” approach. 

The Big Question: Why Fix a ...

Finding the right dental care for a child with special healthcare needs means finding a practice that understands how to make dental visits safe, comfortable, and stress-free. At Sierk Children's Dentistry, we tailor treatment plans to help every child feel at ease, including those who benefit from sedation dentistry.

Understanding the Need for Specialized Sedation

Why Dental Visits Can Be ...

Most parents associate tongue tie with nursing difficulties in newborns. In fact, tethered oral tissues (TOTs) don't disappear after infancy; they can continue affecting your child’s development, sleep, and oral health well beyond.

Common Signs and Symptoms in Toddlers

If your toddler or young child has a tongue tie, they might experience

• Difficulty with speech sounds (especially "l," "r," "t," or "d")
• Messy ...

Understanding the Sensory Challenges

At Sierk Children’s Dentistry, we pay close attention to children with special needs and take measures to accommodate them. We can start with a slow introduction to the team and environment. We can also add things like noise-cancelling headphones, and we tend to use quieter dental instruments with our little ones. 

Our team also encourages parental input ...

Thumb sucking and pacifier use are common and comforting behaviors for babies and toddlers. However, when kids are allowed to continue them past a certain age, these habits can begin to affect their dental and jaw development. Both thumb sucking and pacifier use can lead to changes in bite alignment, tooth position, and even speech formation.

As a parent, understanding when ...

When it comes to your child’s dental health, few things matter more than trust. As a parent, you want to feel confident that your pediatric dentist is making the right recommendations, whether it’s about x-rays or treatments like fillings or orthodontics. At Sierk Children’s Dentistry in Castle Pines, CO, Dr. Jon Sierk and our caring team believe that trust begins ...

Is feeding frustrating your little one? We can help bring back the peaceful moments. If you’ve noticed that feeding is a struggle (perhaps your baby has trouble latching, takes a very long time to nurse, or is consistently fussy at the breast or bottle), it might signal a tongue or lip tie.

At Sierk Children’s Dentistry, Dr. Jon Sierk gently identifies ...

When a small cavity becomes a bigger concern, our priority is always to gently save your child’s tooth and protect their developing smile. Untreated decay can lead to painful infections, early tooth loss, and may even affect how your child’s permanent teeth come in.

At Sierk Children’s Dentistry, zirconia dental crowns are a beautiful, strong, and natural-looking way to bring ...

When it comes to oral health, parents understandably focus on their children’s teeth and gums. But what if we told you that tongue position, breathing habits, and oral posture could play a similarly significant role in their well-being?

Research shows that how a child breathes and uses their oral muscles plays a major role in airway development and long-term health. ...

As a parent, seeing your child in pain is difficult. You’ve looked in their mouth and don’t see anything, and they just had a check-up. So what could be causing their tooth sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity in children is more common than you might think and can stem from various causes. Our goal is to provide parents and caregivers with clear, expert ...

Braces are an exciting step toward a straighter smile, but they also come with new challenges, especially when it comes to keeping those pearly whites clean. Many parents think that once their child has braces, visits to the orthodontist are enough. Not quite! Maintaining excellent oral hygiene in Highlands Ranch still means seeing your pediatric dentist in Highlands Ranch ...

Even before your baby flashes that very first toothy grin, their smile is already hard at work behind the scenes. As your trusted pediatric dentist in Highlands Ranch, we love helping families build strong dental habits from the very beginning. Here’s your baby-friendly guide to caring for those tiny teeth before they even arrive. 

Caring for Gums Before Their Teeth ...

Every parent wants to see their child smile with joyous confidence. But cavity prevention in children isn’t just about avoiding sugar—though that certainly helps!

Ensuring that your kids have healthy and radiant smiles requires a preventive dentistry plan. And any plan designed to keep your young ones’ little teeth healthy must include a variety of measures. It’s about building lifelong ...

Dental crowns are a marvel of modern dentistry for patients of all ages. This includes pediatric dentistry, where crowns are necessary for kids whose teeth become damaged or weakened.

Kids’ teeth may require crowns for a variety of reasons, from cavities and injury to developmental issues. Regardless of the cause, a dental crown can restore the function and appearance ...

Last Updated: October 31, 2025

Have you been told your child has tooth decay and needs a pediatric dental filling? It is natural to feel concerned when your little one requires dental treatment, especially when the procedure is unfamiliar.

The good news is that a filling is a standard procedure that's quick and simple for your child. We can typically complete ...

While the goal of pediatric dentistry is to preserve natural teeth, there are situations where tooth extraction is necessary. Whether due to severe decay, injury, or orthodontic concerns, removing a child’s tooth can be the best choice for their oral health. Understanding the reasons for pediatric tooth extractions can help parents feel more prepared if a dentist recommends it.

Severe Tooth ...

Regular dental exams are essential for maintaining a child’s oral health. Early visits help prevent dental issues, establish positive habits, ensure proper tooth and gum development, and create a positive connotation with dental care.

Parents often wonder what to expect during a child’s dental exam and how to prepare their little one for a successful visit. This guide covers everything you ...

The thought of your child needing a root canal may sound terrifying, but Dr. Sierk and our team make it as painless, easy, and stress-free as possible. If your little one has just had a child root canal, you probably have some questions about what to expect and how to help them heal comfortably. Here's everything you need to ...

Many adults suffer from dental anxiety. They're fearful of the unknown or have had bad dental experiences in the past. Now, imagine how scary dental visits can be for children. It's extremely common for kids to be anxious at the dentist, especially when experiencing pain or discomfort.

So, if you're given a choice, should you opt for anesthesia or sedation for ...

Nothing is scarier than when your child is sick or in pain, and you don't know what to do! The same can be said for dental emergencies. Blood or knocked-out teeth may cause you to panic or feel overwhelmed. But you don't have to worry when you have a trusted pediatric dentist in Castle Pines you can rely ...

We aim to keep smiles in our community healthy, and we are committed to the well-being of children, which is why we frequently partner with like-minded entities, including:

• Castle Pines Chamber of Commerce
• Food Truck Frenzy in Castle Pines
• Fall Fest Kid Zone in Castle Pines
• Roxborough PTIC

We also promote healthy habits in kids through special initiatives, such as tooth ...

Last Updated: August 14, 2025

Summer's relaxed schedule often means a relaxed dental routine, with later bedtimes and more snacks leading to less frequent brushing and flossing. As the new school year begins, it's the perfect time to get back on track. Inconsistent oral care, even for a short time, can lead to plaque buildup, cavities, and early-stage gum disease (gingivitis).

As ...

Last Updated: August 14, 2025

Maintaining good dental health is crucial for children’s smiles and their overall well-being. As a pediatric dentist in Highlands Ranch, I want to share how a well-thought-out diet, especially a child's school lunch, can significantly impact their oral health.

The Connection Between Diet and Oral Health

What your child eats and drinks plays a crucial role in ...

Sports are a fantastic way for children to stay active and healthy. However, they also increase the risk of oral injuries. From chipped teeth to more severe dental trauma, sports can pose significant risks to a child's dental health. Knowing how to handle and minimize their impact can make a big difference.

Here's a look at common oral sports injuries and ...

Ensuring the health of your child's teeth and gums from an early age sets the foundation for a lifetime of good oral health. Here’s a detailed guide on what parents can expect when visiting a pediatric dentist in Castle Rock.

Early Pediatric Dental Visits: The First Step to Healthy Teeth

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that a child’s ...

Moving to a new area has its challenges; you must find a place to live, pack and unpack, settle your kids into a new school, and begin a new job. If that weren’t enough, you must also secure medical and dental care for you and your family.

With so much to do, you may find it challenging to find the time ...

Finding the perfect dentist for your child can be difficult; with so many options, you may not know which way to turn. You want an experienced dentist who can treat all types of dental concerns, but they also need to be able to ease your child’s anxiety and keep them calm and comfortable during their visit. So, how do ...

Teeth are interesting because they help us chew and show up when we smile. They fall out once, and then new adult ones emerge later!  

Below, your child’s dentist in Castle Pines, CO, and our team have compiled several more fun facts about teeth.

Fun Fact about Teeth: Did You Know…?

Bears Get Cavities

When black bears get too many cavities or their ...

Sometimes, getting your child to brush and, eventually, floss their teeth is challenging. Then, some kids clean their teeth haphazardly and don’t spend enough time.

Below, your child’s dentist in Castle Pines, CO, and our team have compiled some tips to encourage your child to brush and floss on schedule and with more enthusiasm.

#1 Make Brushing and Flossing a Game

Today, ...

Participation in sports is an excellent way for children to stay active and healthy, but it also comes with some risks, including the potential for dental injuries. To protect their smiles during athletic activities, children need to wear mouthguards. At Sierk Children’s Dentistry, we understand the importance of safeguarding your child’s oral health, so we offer customized mouthguards. 

Why Are ...

Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure for children, often necessitated by issues such as severe decay, crowding, or orthodontic treatment. At Sierk Children's Dentistry, we recognize parents may have concerns about their child's recovery after a tooth extraction. Here's what you need to know. 

Immediate Post-Extraction Care

• Bleeding — It's normal for some bleeding to occur immediately after the extraction. ...

Managing dental anxiety in children, especially before a tooth extraction, is an important aspect of pediatric dentistry. At Sierk Children’s Dentistry, located near Castle Rock, we understand the apprehensions and fears that can accompany a child’s visit to the dentist, particularly for a procedure like a tooth extraction. 

Here, we focus on strategies and techniques to help children cope with ...

Sedation dentistry ensures a comfortable and anxiety-free dental experience for children. At Sierk Children's Dentistry, we specialize in sedation dentistry for kids, offering various options to meet the unique needs of our young patients. Understanding the types and purposes of pediatric sedation can help parents make informed decisions for their child's dental care.

Types of Sedation Used in Pediatric Dentistry

Nitrous ...

A child knocking out a tooth can be stressful and alarming for any parent. At Sierk Children's Dentistry, your trusted children's emergency dentist in Castle Pines and Highlands Ranch, we understand the urgency and concern involved in such incidents. Here's a guide on what steps to take if your child experiences this common dental emergency.

Stay Calm and Assess the ...

Ensuring our children's oral health is of the utmost importance. While every parent wishes for their child to have a lifetime of perfect teeth, there are moments when a tooth extraction becomes necessary.

The process of a tooth extraction for kids in Highlands Ranch and Castle Pines can seem daunting to both parents and children. However, Dr. Sierk and our ...

Having a child is one of the most rewarding and satisfying things you can experience, but it can also feel overwhelming when it comes to keeping up with everything, including oral care for your baby. At Sierk Children’s Dentistry, we understand how time-consuming it is to be a parent, and we want to help by offering dental services ...

Summer is a great time to enjoy your family and friends. Since your kids aren’t in school, maybe you take a vacation in the summer or enjoy swimming in the neighborhood pool. Perhaps you like to cook outdoors and watch your kids play sports. However you spend your time, the long summer days are certainly enjoyable. Now that summer is ...

When it comes to promoting oral health in children, brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits are essential. But did you know that diet also plays a major role in keeping your child's teeth healthy? 

At Sierk Children's Dentistry in Castle Pines, CO, we're committed to treating dental issues and passionate about preventive care. This includes guiding parents and kids toward ...

At Sierk Children's Dentistry in Castle Pines, CO, we understand that a tooth extraction can be a nerve-wracking experience for kids (and their parents!). However, with careful preparation and aftercare, we can ensure a smooth and comfortable tooth extraction process. Here are some tips to help prepare your child for a tooth extraction and care for them afterward.

Before the ...

Nothing is more distressing than seeing your child in pain, and dental emergencies can be particularly upsetting. At Sierk Children's Dentistry, we offer reliable and responsive emergency dentistry services for children in Highlands Ranch and Castle Pines, CO. Knowing the signs and symptoms of dental emergencies is crucial to get your child the help they need.

Common Dental Emergencies We ...

When you are the parent of a child with special needs, routine experiences can require a bit of extra planning and preparation. Visiting the dentist is no exception. At Sierk Children's Dentistry, we specialize in providing compassionate, high-quality special needs dentistry in Highlands Ranch and Castle Pines, CO. We want to let you know what to expect when you ...

Celebrating a cavity-free checkup with your child is a proud moment for any parent. At our Highlands Ranch and Castle Rock dental practices, we strive to create a positive and enjoyable experience for children while keeping their smiles healthy. In this article, we'll share some tips to help you maintain a friendly and fun atmosphere when it comes ...

Primary teeth start to shed between the ages of six and seven. By age 21, the average person has 32 permanent teeth––16 in the upper jaw and 16 in the lower jaw. 

Dr. Sierk at Sierk Children’s Dentistry is a pediatric dentist in Highlands Ranch and Castle Pines who can help your child maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. Dr. Sierk is ...

Dr. Sierk is a gentle pediatric dentist in Highlands Ranch who provides stress-free tooth extractions. Dr. Sierk will discuss all expectations for the tooth extraction process––before, during, and after the procedure. 

Here are some tips for helping your child recover from a tooth extraction.

1. Get Plenty of Rest 

Rest is crucial for healing. We recommend monitoring your child and ensuring they ...

If you’ve ever had a tooth pulled, you may remember feeling anxious or not knowing what to expect when you arrived at the dentist’s office. Now imagine that your child might need a tooth extraction. You would want to have as much information as possible. Let’s consider what to expect and how to know when your child might need a ...

If you’re a parent, you know how much time you spend caring for your baby. Between diaper changes, laundry, cooking, and cleaning, there isn’t much time for anything else. So, how do you know when your baby needs to go to the dentist?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that you take your child to a pediatric dentist when your ...

For children, life is filled with new experiences, many of which are unfamiliar. For example, a loud noise or a bright light may startle a young one, leading to a fear response later. We see this often in dentistry, where statistics show that one in ten children encounter dental anxiety.

At Sierk Children's Dentistry, we provide several sedation ...

Your child’s teeth are precious to us at Sierk Children’s Dentistry, so you can rest assured that a tooth extraction is always our last resort. If we have another avenue to save their tooth, we will take it. But when it needs to happen, our team will treat all patients with kindness and respect.

Once we’ve removed a damaged tooth, ...

Dental emergencies can be scary, especially when it's happening to your child! But having a dental team you can count on and knowing what to do during a dental emergency can help you remain calm and get your child the treatment and relief they need.

Dr. Jonathan Sierk is the emergency dentist in Highlands Ranch and Castle Pines, ...

Did you know that nearly half of dental emergencies are caused by sports injuries? So if your child participates in sports, it's essential to protect their teeth and mouth from injury with a reliable mouthguard.

But the question is, should you invest in a mouthguard from your dentist or go with one you can purchase at the store? Here's ...

Baby root canals are not painful when performed by a skilled, gentle, and experienced pediatric dentist like Dr. Sierk. Root canal treatment, also known as pulp therapy, saves a tooth from further damage, decay, tooth loss, or removal.

At Sierk Children’s Dentistry, our team is kind and welcoming, and we always strive to create a warm and relaxing atmosphere where ...

Parents always want the best for their kids and their oral health. From the time their teeth grow in, it’s important to promote good oral hygiene and habits to avoid common dental concerns children face. Because dental-related problems are common in children and teens, preventive care is essential. 

Here are some of the most common dental issues in children. 

1. Tooth Decay 

Tooth ...

We can help through ICON teeth whitening technology in Highlands Ranch or Castle Pines, CO.

You take excellent care of your child’s teeth, assisting them with brushing and flossing or making sure they do so on schedule. Next, you take them to the dentist for regular ...

We take measures to accommodate children who require special needs dentistry in Highlands Ranch and Castle Pines, CO.

Dr. Jon Sierk’s goal is to help all children achieve and maintain healthy smiles, including differently abled children or those with special needs.

As any parent knows, keeping children healthy can be a full-time job. From making sure they eat their vegetables to getting them to brush their teeth, the list seems endless. But dental health is an important part of overall health, and there are some simple steps parents can take to ensure their children's teeth stay healthy—even before they get their first pearly white. ...

First visits to the dentist are an exciting and important time for a little one! Dental visits will be a lifelong journey for your son or daughter, and starting them off with a positive experience is our goal at Sierk Children's Dentistry.

Your little one should begin seeing their Castle Pines children's dentist as soon as their teeth arrive or ...