FAQs

• When should my child first see a dentist?
  • “First visit by first birthday” is the recommendation of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Early examination and preventive care can help protect your child’s smile now and in the future.
• How can I prevent cavities?
• Watch your child’s diet to eliminate high levels of fermentable carbohydrates (sugars), encourage a daily routine of dental care, never allow your child to go to bed with anything other than water, start cleaning your child’s mouth from their very first meal.
• Should I worry about thumb sucking or pacifier?
• Thumb sucking or a pacifier habit are normal for infants and young children. The habit should be discouraged by the age of four in order to reduce the risk of bite problems or crowded teeth.
• Are baby teeth really that important?
• Primary (baby) teeth are important for many reasons. They help children speak and chew and they aid in placement of permanent teeth as they erupt into the mouth.
• Should we use fluoridated toothpaste?
• If your child is unable to spit, fluoridated toothpaste should be avoided and a gum cleanser or non-fluoridated toothpaste should be substituted.
• We have well water at home. Do we need fluoride drops?
• That depends. Some well water has fluoride in it and the water should be tested for fluoride content prior to receiving fluoride supplements for your child. Additionally, if your child does not drink the well water and receives adequate fluoride levels from the beverages they consume, they may not need fluoride supplementation.
• How do I protect their teeth during sports?
• Mouthguards are the best way to protect your child’s teeth during sport events. Several types of mouthguards exist and your dentist can discuss which mouthguard would suit your child best.
• What if a permanent tooth is knocked out?
• Try to find the tooth. Gently pick it up by the crown (try not to touch the root). Rinse it with plain water (no soap or cleanser), do not dry it. Place it back in your child’s mouth either in the socket or in between the cheek and gum. Cover it gently with gauze or paper towel to prevent swallowing of the tooth. If unable to place it back in the mouth, put it in a container with milk, saliva or plain water. Call your dentist immediately for care. The sooner the tooth can be treated, the higher the chance it can be saved.
• How safe are dental xrays?
• There is very little risk in dental xrays. This office uses a digital system that greatly reduces the amount of radiation exposure your child receives with each xray. Living in a brick house or taking a trans-coastal flight exposes your child to higher levels of radiation than the average set of dental xrays. Children tend to need xrays more often than adults since their mouths change more rapidly.
• What are the risks of too much fluoride?
• When a child receives too much fluoride (either through swallowing excessive amounts of toothpaste/fluoride rinse or ingesting prescription fluoride when drinking water contains fluoride) the enamel is weakened in the developing teeth still under the gums in the bone. These teeth may be rough, pitted, discolored and weak. These teeth are at high risk of developing cavities and need to be treated very carefully. Fluoride is an important part of caring for teeth. It needs to be carefully regulated in your child’s environment to promote a healthy smile.