Frequently Asked Questions

The ideal time for your child’s first dental visit is between twelve and eighteen months of age. Preventive care will protect your child’s smile now and in the future. By starting early, we can enable your child to enjoy the lifelong benefits of a healthy mouth and diagnos early problems.

Unfortunately, some dental problems begin very early in life. A primary concern is baby bottle tooth decay, a serious dental condition caused by long, frequent exposure to such liquids as milk, formula and fruit juice. The earlier the dental visit, the better the chances of preventing tooth decay and other problems. Getting started now can begin her on a lifetime of positive dental habits.

After you share your child’s medical history with us, we will examine their teeth and gums. If they are unable to sit in the chair on their own, we may ask that your child sit on your lap. The teeth will be checked for decay and bite evaluated for the effects of such oral habits as thumbsucking-pacifier use. radiographic imaging may be necessary to discover hidden decay or the effects of trauma. Their teeth may be professionally cleaned, and topical fluoride applied to help prevent cavities. Most important, you will learn how to clean and care for your child’s teeth. You play the leading role in keeping your child’s smile bright and healthy.

Primary teeth are important to your child’s future dental health because they help with proper chewing and eating, aid in speech development and add to an attractive appearance. A child who can chew easily, speak clearly and smile confidently is a happier child. Primary teeth permit normal development of the jaw bones and muscles. They save space for the permanent teeth and guide them into position. If a baby tooth is lost too soon, the teeth beside it may tilt, causing permanent teeth to come in crooked. In addition, your child’s general health can be affected if diseased baby teeth are not treated.

With today’s modern safeguards and equipment, the amount of radiation received in a dental examination is extremely small. The implementation of digital radiography in our office further reduces the exposure to a negligible level.

We are happy to add the DenOptix Digital Imaging System to our Practice. This system is a revolutionary new product designed to competely replace traditional x-ray film. It is built on imaging plate technology, which offers diagnostic quality at reduced x-ray exposure to your child by up to 90%. If you have been apprehensive regarding dental x-rays for your child this should put your mind at ease.

Chewing gum stimulates the flow of saliva and helps to clear cavity-causing bacteria from the teeth. So, sugarless gum after a meal or snack would do more good than harm. Sugarless gum in place of another type of snack would be an even better choice.

The prescription for helping your child remain cavity free is:

• Snack in moderation, paying special consideration to the form and frequency.
• Brush effectively, at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
• Visit our office twice a year.
• Take advantage of fluoride through mouthwashes and supplements if necessary.
• Have sealants applied to the chewing surfaces of permanent back teeth soon after they come in.

Sealants protect the chewing surfaces of back teeth where many cavities in children are found. They are painted onto the tiny grooves and depressions in the molars. They “seal out” food and plaque, thus reducing the risk of decay.

Sealants are only as good as your child’s brushing and diet. Sealants are an adjunct just like fluoride, it helps prevent decay. If your child doesn’t brush or has a poor diet, they can get cavities in teeth that were sealed.