Frequently Asked Questions
When should my child have his or her first dental visit?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children see the dentist by their first birthday. This first visit allows the dentist and staff to get to know you and your child, and to provide information on proper dental home care and basic nutritional guidelines. Dr. Burns will examine your child and do any cleaning if needed, as well as apply fluoride to your child’s teeth, if you desire. Your child’s first dental visit is a great time to ask about your child’s developing mouth.
back to top »How often should my child go to the dentist?
It is recommended that your child have a check-up every 6 months. At each visit, we thoroughly check your child’s teeth and other oral structures to identify potential problems. We educate you and your child regarding healthy dental hygiene and nutritional habits to prevent future dental problems, such as decay.
back to top »At what age should my child have dental x-rays?
Ideally, children should have dental x-rays by the age of three. X-rays will be taken of the front teeth as well as the molars. A common area for decay is between the teeth, where the teeth touch one another. Many of these cavities are not visible by looking in the mouth, which is why x-rays are necessary. As your child gets older (around age 6 or 7) we will recommend a panoramic x-ray, which allows Dr. Burns to check the health of your child’s jaws and their developing permanent teeth.
back to top »What are sealants?
Sealants are a protective resin coating that fills in the deepest pits and fissures in the biting surfaces of molars and premolars. These pits and fissures are usually too small to be cleaned by the bristles of a toothbrush, so food and bacteria can become trapped in these fissures and cause decay. Sealants, combined with proper hygiene and dietary habits, are an effective way to decrease your child’s risk for cavities.
back to top »Why does my child have cavities?
Inadequate oral hygiene and increased sugary foods are the most common reasons that children develop cavities. Make sure that your child brushes his or her teeth at least twice a day; the parent needs to brush the child’s teeth until he or she is 6 years old. Daily flossing is very important to prevent decay on areas of the teeth where the toothbrush cannot reach. Frequent intake of drinks such as Gatorade, sodas, fruit juice, and sugar-sweetened tea contribute to the development of decay. The sugar of these drinks feed acid-producing bacteria that break down the enamel of teeth.
back to top »What snacks do you recommend?
Water is the best option for a drink in between meals. If your child consumes milk or juice, these should be given at mealtime. Fresh fruit, cheese, nuts, seeds (e.g., pumpkin and sunflower), and vegetables are the best choices for healthy snacks. Refined foods such as crackers, chips, or gummy snacks should be avoided.
back to top »