Frequently Asked Questions

(compliments of the AAPD)

Q: What is the difference between a pediatric dentist and a family dentist?

A: 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.

Pediatric dentistry is the specialty of dentistry that focuses on the oral health and unique needs of young people. After completing a four-year dental school curriculum, two to three additional years of rigorous training is required to become a pediatric dentist. This specialized program of study and hands-on experience prepares pediatric dentists to meet the unique needs of your infants, children and adolescents, including persons with special health care needs.

We are concerned about your child's total health care. Good oral health is an important part of total health. Establishing us as your child's, "Dental Home" provides us the opportunity to implement preventive dental health habits that keep a child free from dental/oral disease. We focus on prevention, early detection and treatment of dental diseases, and keep current on the latest advances in dentistry for children.

Pleasant visits to the dental office promote the establishment of trust and confidence in your child that will last a lifetime. Our goal, along with our staff, is to help all children feel good about visiting the dentist and teach them how to care for their teeth. From our special office designs, to our communication style, our main concern is what is best for your child.

Q: Why should my child see a Pediatric dentist?

A: Pediatric dentists have received specialty training in treating children. This training includes experience in the use of behavior management techniques and training in the growth and development of children. Our office is designed to be child friendly and offers an environment in which many children fell comfortable and enjoy. Br creating this type of atmosphere, children are typically more cooperative and positive about visiting the dentist.

Q: When should my child first see a dentist?

A: The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children visit the dentist by one year of age or within 6 months of the eruption of the first tooth. This is especially important for parents as it offers them a time for questions and counseling with the dentist. Dental decay can develop shortly after teeth erupt into the mouth. Our dental center uses this appointment to discuss diet and nutrition, dental development, and oral hygiene. By establishing a dental home at this early age, you have a source of contact in the event your child sustains a dental trauma or other emergency. Early examination and preventive care will protect your child's smile now and in the future.

Q: Why so early? What dental problems could a baby have?

A: The most important reason is to begin a thorough prevention program. Dental problems can begin early. A big concern is Early Childhood Caries (also know as baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries). Your child risks severe decay from using a bottle during naps or at night or when they nurse continuously from the breast.

The earlier the dental visit, the better the chance of preventing dental problems. Children with healthy teeth chew food easily, learn to speak clearly, and smile with confidence. Start your child now on a lifetime of good dental habits.

Q: When should bottle-feeding be stopped?

A: Children should be weaned from the bottle at 12-14 months of age. Children as young as 1 year of age can develop a form of decay called "baby bottle caries." Though the name of the form of decay suggests that the cause is from a bottle, it is the content of the container that is often the cause of the decay. Drinks with high sugar content such as milk or juice will cause an acidic environment in the oral cavity. These acids can rapidly destroy tooth structure and lead to significant tooth decay. With this type of decay the upper 4 front teeth are usually affected first. As a parent you should never place your child to bed with anything to drink besides water.

Q: How often does my child need to see the pediatric dentist?

A check-up every six months is recommended in order prevent cavities and other dental problems. However, your pediatric dentist can tell you when and how often your child should visit based on their personal oral health.

Q: Should I worry about thumb and finger sucking?

A: Thumb sucking is perfectly normal for infants; most stop by age 2. If your child does not, discourage it after age 4. Prolonged thumb sucking can create crowded, crooked teeth, or bite problems. Your pediatric dentist will be glad to suggest ways to address a prolonged thumb sucking habit.

Q: When should I start cleaning my baby's teeth?

A: The sooner the better! Starting at birth, clean your child's gums with a soft infant toothbrush and water. Remember that most small children do not have the dexterity to brush their teeth effectively.

Q: How do I know if my child is getting enough fluoride?

A: Have your pediatric dentist evaluate the fluoride level of your child's primary source of drinking water. If your child is not getting enough fluoride internally through water (especially if the fluoride level is deficient or if your child drinks bottled water without fluoride), then your pediatric dentist may prescribe fluoride supplements.