In order to help make you and your child’s visit to the dentist as comfortable as possible, here are a list of frequently asked questions to answer some of your questions and address some of your concerns.
What is a pediatric dentist and how are they different from other dentists?
A pediatric dentist receives an additional 2-3 years of specialized training after a four-year dental school curriculum. The additional years of specialized training prepares the pediatric dentist to meet the needs of infants, children and adolescents, including those with special needs.
When should I schedule my child’s first visit to the dentist?
By his or her first birthday! The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children be seen within six months of their first tooth erupting or by the age of one. Early dental visits can help establish healthy dental habits!
What happens during my child’s first visit to the dentist?
Your child’s first visit to the dentist should be very exciting for you and your child! You and your child will be given a tour of our office and will be able to meet our wonderful staff. We want to make your child’s first visit as comfortable as possible. At this visit, we focus on getting to know your child and giving you the information needed to keep your child’s teeth healthy! A thorough exam will be completed and any necessary radiographs if needed. We will also provide a professional cleaning and preventive fluoride treatment.
How often should my child see the dentist?
The American Dental Association recommends dental check-ups every six months. However, ever child is unique and depending on your child’s oral health, we may recommend more frequent visits.
Aren’t baby teeth going to fall out anyway? Why are they important?
Baby teeth play an important role in your child’s development. They help your child speak and chew properly. They also hold the space for the adult teeth. If baby teeth are lost too early, the other teeth may shift and cause the adult teeth to come in crowded and crooked.
How do I clean my child’s teeth at home?
We recommend you to start brushing your child’s teeth as soon as they erupt. Use a soft-bristled, child size toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste. For children under 3, a smear of toothpaste is all that is needed. For children over 3, we recommend a pea-size amount of toothpaste. We recommend that you help with brushing and flossing until your child is at least six years old.
What causes tooth decay?
Bacteria in the mouth can change the sugar found in foods and drinks into acid that causes tooth decay in the mouth. Tooth decay is the most common long-term childhood disease but it is completely preventable! Daily brushing and flossing can help combat the bacteria found in the mouth to prevent tooth decay. Regular fluoride treatments and dental visits at our office can also help strengthen your child’s teeth against the bacteria.
Does my child need dental x-rays?
We generally recommend taking x-rays when children are around the age of three and four. X-rays not only help us see if any cavities are starting in between the teeth but also to help us make sure your child’s teeth and jaws are healthy and properly aligned. Each child is unique and a comprehensive oral exam will help determine exactly which x-rays are needed for your child.
If you’re looking for a pediatric dentist that’s gentle, fun, compassionate, and great with kids, you’ve come to the right place. If you have any questions about oral hygiene, or would like to schedule an appointment with your Bolivia pediatric dentists – Dr. Cecilia Liu, Dr. Jennifer Sielski, Dr. Caitlin Ferguson and Dr. Angie Baechtold at Coastal Pediatric Dentistry® – give us a call today at (910) 444-2368.
