February is Children’s Dental Health Month, and we’re spotlighting Ryan Roberts, DDS, of On the Cusp Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics. Dr. Roberts partners with OSU Medical Center to provide specialized dental care for children requiring treatment in a hospital setting. Through this collaboration, families have access to advanced pediatric dental services supported by OSUMC’s surgical, anesthesia and care teams. Read more about the collaborative relationship in our Q&A with Dr. Roberts below.

Why do some children need dental surgery at OSU Medical Center?

While most dental care for children can be safely completed in a dental office, some cases require treatment in a hospital operating room under general anesthesia. OSUMC provides a safe, controlled environment for children who cannot tolerate complex dental procedures.

This is common for young children and those with special health needs, including autism spectrum disorder, ADHD or other conditions. These children often experience significant pain from large cavities or dental infections, which can interfere with eating, sleeping and overall well-being.

One of our most common hospital-based procedures performed at OSUMC is full-mouth dental rehabilitation. This involves restoring and removing teeth affected by extensive decay. Children requiring this level of care often have severe early childhood caries, a disease that affects children from 18 months through early elementary school. Treatment may include crowns, fillings, pulp therapy (“baby root canal”), extractions, space maintainers, protective coatings and thorough cleanings addressing both baby teeth and, when present, permanent teeth.

What is something you want parents to know about their kids’ dental health?

Early prevention is key. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that a child see a dentist when the first tooth appears or by 12 months of age. Establishing a dental home by age one allows families to receive guidance on oral hygiene, fluoride use and nutrition, all of which significantly reduce the risk of cavities.

Parents should also know that cavity-causing bacteria can be passed from caregivers to children, particularly when adults have untreated tooth decay. Frequent sugary snacks or beverages between meals further increase a child’s risk for dental disease.

What are some warning signs parents should look for?

Early signs of dental disease may include white, chalky spots on the teeth, which can progress to brown cavities and infection. Difficulty eating, sleeping or tooth pain are also important signs to seek care.

Where collaboration meets care

Thanks to coordinated efforts between On the Cusp and OSUMC’s surgical and anesthesia teams, children across Green Country can receive essential care in a hospital setting. On the importance of access, Dr. Roberts said, “OSUMC leadership, the anesthesia team and the Board of Directors are supporting a critical pathway that expands access to advanced pediatric dental treatment for children in our shared community.”