When should my child first see a dentist?
We like to see kids for the first time right around their third birthday.. Most children do very well with this visit, and it sets a good foundation for future regular dental care.
How often should my child or I see the dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Dental Association recommend a dental check-up at least twice a year for most children and adults. However, some children and adults require more frequent visits due to increased risk of tooth decay or a need for more frequent dental cleanings due to braces, poor oral hygiene and increased risk of periodontal disease. Your dentist will evaluate you or your child's specific needs and recommend a dental prevention regimen.
What are dental sealants?
A sealant is a hardened plastic material that helps protect the grooves and pits on the chewing surface of the teeth from getting decayed.
Why fill a baby tooth if it will only fall out eventually?
A baby tooth saves space for the permanent teeth and helps guide them into position. If the baby tooth is lost too soon due to decay or trauma, the teeth beside it may tilt or shift into the empty space. Permanent teeth will not have room to come in properly, creating a crowded condition or crooked teeth. This condition can lead to extensive and costly orthodontic treatment if a space maintainer is not put in to hold the space. It is less expensive to restore a tooth than replace it with a space maintainer. Remember: some baby teeth are not replaced until a child is 10 or 12 years old.