Patient Info

What is the difference between our regular family dentist and a Pediatric Dental Specialist?

Pediatric dentists are the pediatricians of dentistry. A pediatric dentist has two to three years specialty training following dental school and limits his/her practice to treating children only. Pediatric dentists are primary and specialty oral care providers for infants and children through adolescence, including those with special health needs.

How soon should I take my child to the dentist for their first visit?

In order to prevent dental problems, your child should see a pediatric dentist when the first tooth appears, or no later than his/her first birthday. The first visit will usually include an exam, cleaning, fluoride, and guidance for prevention, diet, and homecare oral health.

How often should I need to bring my child to the dentist?

Check-up visits are recommended at a minimum of every six months in order to aid in prevention of cavities or other dental problems. It is always better to diagnose a potential problem early on. Decay or breakdown of a tooth that is detected in the early stages is easier and less costly to treat.

Every child is unique and has individual oral healthcare needs, therefore the frequency of dental visits will vary. Regular visits will also keep children familiar with the dentist and his or her staff.

What should I use to clean my baby's teeth?

A toothbrush will remove plaque bacteria that can lead to decay. Any soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head, preferably one designed specifically for infants, should be used at least once a day at bedtime.

Are baby teeth that important?

Primary, or "baby," teeth are important for many reasons. Not only do they help children speak clearly and chew naturally, they also aid in forming a path that permanent teeth can follow when they are ready to erupt.

What should I do if my child has a toothache?

Rinse the irritated area with warm salt water and place a cold compress on the face if it is swollen. Give the child acetaminophen (e.g., Children's Tylenol) for any pain, rather than placing aspirin on the teeth or gums. Schedule to see a dentist as soon as possible.

Are pacifiers and thumb-sucking bad habits for my child's teeth?

Thumb and pacifier sucking habits will generally only become a problem if they go on for a very long period of time. Most children stop these habits on their own, but if they are still sucking their thumbs or fingers past the age of three, a mouth appliance may be needed.

How can I prevent decay caused from nursing my baby?

Avoid nursing children to sleep or putting anything other than water in their bed-time bottle. Also, learn the proper way to brush and floss your child's teeth. Take your child to a pediatric dentist regularly to have his/her teeth and gums checked. The first dental visit should be scheduled by your child's first birthday.

What should I do if my child knocks out a permanent tooth?

The most important thing to do is to remain calm. Then find the tooth. Hold it by the crown rather than the root and try to reinsert it in the socket. If that is not possible, put the tooth in a glass of milk and bring your child and the glass immediately to us.

How safe are dental X-rays?

There is very little risk in dental X-rays. Pediatric dentists are especially careful to limit the amount of radiation to which children are exposed. Lead aprons and high-speed film are used to ensure safety and minimize the amount of radiation.