Q. When should I take my child to the dentist for their first check-up?

A. The Children’s Smile Center starts seeing children at age one. It is important for children to start seeing a pediatric dentist as early as possible to prevent tooth decay and encourage proper oral hygiene.

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

A. A check-up every six months is recommended to prevent dental problems and decay.

Q. How important are my child’s baby teeth?

A. Primary or “baby” teeth are very important for many reasons. Baby teeth allow the child to speak clearly, chew their food, and they help form a path for the permanent or “adult” teeth to follow when they are ready to erupt.

Q. When should my child start using toothpaste and how much should they use?

A. Prior to age 2, training toothpaste should be used for your child. Place just a smear on the toothbrush and then brush your child’s teeth. At age 3, your child should start using fluoride toothpaste. Depending on your child’s needs, a fluoride rinse may be recommended.

Q. What age should my child start brushing his or her teeth?

A. Begin oral care early by wiping your baby’s gums with a clean, soft washcloth after feedings. As teeth begin to erupt, brush with a child-size toothbrush and water or non-fluoride toothpaste. Check your child’s teeth monthly for changes.

Q. What can I expect at my child’s first dental visit?

A. Many children are unsure about their first dental visit, but they don’t have to be nervous. The Children’s Smile Center only sees children and expecting mothers; therefore, our office is designed to spark excitement in children about visiting the dentist. Here are a few hints to help make your child’s first visit with us more enjoyable!
- Your child should visit a pediatric dentist by his or her first birthday.
- The less buildup to any dental visit, the better! Inform your child about the visit and let him or her know the dentist and his staff will explain what will be done and answer any questions during the visit.
- Try not to use words that might create unnecessary anxiety; such as needle, drill, hurt, yanking, or pulling all your teeth out. Our office uses child-friendly terms to explain the procedures that will help prevent anxiety.
- If your child is over the age of 3, we ask that you allow him or her to accompany our staff through the dental experience so that we may have his or her undivided attention. Studies and experience have shown that most children over the age of 3 react more positively when allowed to experience the visit on their own and in an environment designed especially for children.

Q. What are sealants?

A. Sealants are thin plastic coatings that protect the chewing surfaces of children’s back teeth from decay (cavities).  Because they have small pits and grooves, these surfaces are rough and uneven.  Food and germs can get stuck in the pits and grooves and stay there for a long time because toothbrush bristles cannot brush them away.  Sealants fill in the grooves and keep the food out. 

Q. Does my child need fluoride varnish treatments?

A. Fluoride varnish treatments are recommended for anyone who is at risk for getting tooth decay. Fluoride varnish is painted on the teeth and dries very quickly. It is proven to prevent or stop early tooth decay and is safe for all ages.

Q. My child’s adult teeth are coming in over the baby teeth, should I be concerned?

A. Many times, the adult teeth will start to erupt over the baby teeth. When this happens, encourage your child to work on wiggling the tooth to help it fall out. Typically, the dentist will let nature take its course and allow the baby teeth to come out on their own. Occasionally, the dentist will need to help the baby teeth along. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call! We are always happy to answer any questions you may have about your child’s dental health.

(417) 582-5439