Quick Reference FAQ
Getting Started
When should my child first see a dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a first visit within 6 months of the first tooth erupting—usually around age one.
When is the best time to schedule my child’s dental visit?
- Ages 5 and under: Mornings are best—children are well-rested, and the office is quieter, creating a calmer environment.
- Ages 6 and above: Afternoons or after-school appointments are often more convenient.
📄 Dental visits are considered excused absences. We’re happy to provide a note for school upon request.
Will I be allowed to be with my child during the visit?
Yes! Parents are welcome to join their child in the exam room, or you can relax in the waiting area if you prefer.
What if I need to reschedule or cancel?
We kindly ask for 48 hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule at no fee. We understand unexpected events happen and will work with you to accommodate changes.
What if we are running late?
If you arrive 15 minutes late, we may need to wait until the next available time slot or reschedule to another day that’s most convenient.
Do you accept and submit insurance?
Yes. We accept all PPO plans and participate with select PPO providers. As a courtesy, we will electronically submit claims to your insurance. For specific coverage questions, please contact our office.
Why Baby Teeth Matter
Why are baby (primary) teeth important?
Baby teeth do more than help your child chew—they support healthy growth in many ways:
- Health: Healthy teeth make eating more comfortable and promote better nutrition.
- Appearance & Confidence: A healthy smile helps children feel confident.
- Speech: Baby teeth support proper pronunciation.
- Preventing Orthodontic Problems: They hold space for adult teeth. Losing them too early can cause crowding or misalignment.
Teeth Development
When will my child lose baby teeth and get permanent teeth?
- Baby Teeth: Usually start falling out around age 6 and finish around ages 12–13.
- Permanent Teeth: First permanent molars typically appear around age 6.
Typical Timeline:
| Tooth Type | Baby Teeth Lost | Permanent Teeth Erupt |
|---|---|---|
| Central Incisors | 5–7 years | 6–7 years |
| Lateral Incisors | 6–8 years | 6–8 years |
| First Molars | 8–10 years | Premolars: 8–11 years |
| Canines (Eye Teeth) | 9–11 years | 11–13 years |
| Second Molars | 11–13 years | 11–13 years |
Prevention & Home Care
How can I help prevent cavities?
- Brush daily with fluoride toothpaste (help your child reach all surfaces).
- Limit sugary snacks/drinks—especially between meals.
- Use fluoride to strengthen enamel.
- Consider sealants for back teeth.
What if my child doesn’t like milk?
Calcium can also come from cheese, yogurt, almonds, and eggs. Milk contains natural sugar, so avoid bedtime bottles or sippy cups to reduce cavity risk.
Treatment & Dental Procedures
Why does my child need X-rays?
Digital X-rays help us see hidden cavities, tooth roots, and incoming adult teeth to catch problems early.
What is a stainless steel crown?
It’s a silver cap used to protect a tooth that can’t support a regular filling. It stays in place until the tooth naturally falls out.
What is a space maintainer?
If a baby tooth is lost early, a space maintainer holds the space for the permanent tooth. This prevents shifting and reduces the need for braces later.
Common Situations
My child is grinding their teeth—should I worry?
Teeth grinding (bruxism) is common in children and often requires no treatment. If there’s noticeable wear, a mouth guard may be recommended.
What if my child’s adult tooth comes in before the baby tooth falls out?
If a permanent tooth erupts behind or in front of a baby tooth, schedule a dental visit. Early treatment can help prevent orthodontic problems.
What if my child knocks out a permanent tooth?
- Do not rinse the tooth.
- Place it in a cup of milk or water.
- Get your child and the tooth to the dentist within 2 hours for the best chance of saving it.
Dental Anxiety & Behavior
How do pediatric dentists help with dental anxiety?
Our team uses a child-friendly approach with techniques like:
- Tell-Show-Do: Explaining, showing, then doing the procedure.
- Modeling: Pairing a nervous child with a confident one.
- Distraction & Coaching: Keeping the focus off the procedure.
- Praise: Encouraging your child’s bravery.
Can I stay with my child during treatment?
Parents are welcome, especially for infants and young children. For older children, communication sometimes works better if parents wait in the reception area.
What if my child misbehaves during treatment?
We use gentle techniques like calm voice control, mild restraint if necessary, or safe sedation options (such as nitrous oxide) to keep your child safe and comfortable.