When is my child too old for the Pediatric Dentist?
Any ages can benefit, but ages 6 to 16 benefit most. A simple analogy is that a sealant acts as a “Polyurethane” barrier to coat, seal and protect the grooves and pits of your child’s tooth.
What do I do if my child has a dental emergency?
Please call our office
What is baby bottle tooth decay and how do I prevent it?
Any substance other than water (i.e. milk, formula, juice, Gatorade) will eventually dissolve the enamel of a tooth. This is especially true when administered by a “nipple” This allows the liquid to bathe the teeth constantly during the entire feeding. Even prolonged breast feeding can cause damage to the enamel
When will my baby start getting teeth?
The normal range is 6-8 months of age. Earlier or later is certainly not a problem or abnormal. The sequence of eruptions is more important.
What age should my child start using mouthwash?
Not until they can control liquids in the mouth and expectorate (“spit”). Usually around age 2 or 3 of age.
Does my child need to floss if she/he has gaps in the teeth?
Only if absolutely no contact exists. However, it is extremely important to remember that we are starting life- long dental health practices that they will need to properly care for their permanent teeth.
When should my child begin to floss?
Parents should initially expose their children to flossing (and good dental practices in general) by allowing them to watch them while they floss their own teeth.
What kind of toothbrush should my child be using?
Soft bristles and a size that fits. Small brushes for small children, larger brushes for bigger children.
What can I do to stop my child’s habit?
Psychologists recommend ignoring and not mentioning the habit at all as this is negative attention. We will be happy to offer alternative or additional methods.
Are thumb, finger and pacifier habits bad for the teeth and jaws?
95% of the time, yes. Only in rare cases do these habits present no problems.
Does my child need fluoride treatments?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends four (4) times yearly for stronger, In-Office fluoride applications. Most insurance companies only cover two (2) yearly applications. Therefore, our office asks that you supplement with daily at home applications.
Do you allow parents to come back with their children?
Yes! Especially for very young infants and first visits. Once the children are comfortable with the staff (usually after the first visit) most prefer to have their teeth examined and cleaned with only their age group in the Clinical Area. They “grow up” very quickly!
What are dental sealants and who can benefit from them?
When the child (usually in the late teens) no longer:
- Sees a pediatrician
- Has NO orthodontic problems
- Is comfortable with an adult dentist
How important is a child’s diet in the prevention of cavities (Dental Caries)?
Very important. Dental caries cannot exist without something to “feed” them, and that is sugar!
What should I expect at the first Pediatric Dental visit?
The teeth are cleaned and examined by the doctor. Parents are counseled and any questions
are answered
What should I use to clean my baby’s teeth?
Depending on the age of the child, you can start with a soft, clean wash cloth or a
“finger brush” for infants, then graduate to a soft, small toothbrush.
At what age should my child visit the dentist?
As soon as a significant number of teeth erupt, usually 10-12 teeth or 9-12 months.
What should I tell my child prior to the first appointment?
A lot of children are nervous around new people and in new places. It is completely natural for your child to be a little nervous. We have toys, games and movies on in the waiting room to put your child at ease. We are specially trained to handle children of all ages and anxiety levels.
Things you can do:
- Never tell your child bad experiences from your past.
- Never talk negatively about Dentistry.
- Never try to coax your child into brushing or flossing their teeth by threatening them with a trip to the dentist.
- Make sure you communicate comforting words when speaking about Dentistry.
