Frequently Asked Questions

*answered by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) & American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) 

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When should I bring my child to their first dental appointment?

Within 6 months after the presence of your child's first tooth or by your child's first birthday, you should bring your child in for a dental appointment.

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Why is my child's first dental appointment important?

In general, early oral health examination establishes good dental behavior & detects early stages of any tooth decay. 

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How can I take care of my child's oral health at home?

Parents should do preventative home care (brushing, flossing, fluoride). They should also stay informed on how to prevent mouth/teeth injuries, nutrition, growth & development, and finger, thumb & pacifier habits. 

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Are my child's baby teeth important?

Yes, take good care of your child's baby teeth! While they do eventually fall out, baby teeth play an important role in helping your child bite & chew food, and speak clearly. 

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What dental services are available to my child?

Many of the same treatment and evaluation options for our adult patients are also available to kids. These include x-rays, preventive dental sealants, fillings, pulpotomy (partial root canal for deciduous teeth), crowns, conscious sedation, phase I orthodontic treatment to treat jaw misalignment & space maintainers. (Please see the top of this page for a list of these services.)

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When should I bring my child to see an orthodontist?

Talk to our dental team about the appropriate age for your child's first visit to the orthodontist. Based on mouth construction, the age can greatly vary. Generally, a brief appointment by age 7 is a good idea to ensure that you have a plan for your child's orthodontic future & will begin treatment at the most constructive moment.