Below are common answers to some of the most common questions parents have about caring for their child's teeth.
When should I schedule my child’s first visit to the dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children visit the dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth appearing -- whichever comes first.
Early visits allow us to check that your child's teeth are developing properly and to help parents learn how to care for their child's growing smile.
How is a pediatric dentist different from other dentists?
Pediatric dentists are specialists who focus on the dental health of infants, children, and teenagers. After completing dental school, pediatric dentists complete additional years of specialized training focused on child develpment, behavior guidance, and treating growing smiles.
This training allows pediatric dentists to understand the unique dental needs of children -- from baby teeth through adolescense.
Pediatric dental offices are also designed with children in mind. From our staff to our office environment, everything is created to help children feel welcomed and supported during their dental visits.
What happens during my child’s first visit to the dentist?
Your child's first visit is usually short and simple. Much of the appointment focuses on helping your child become familiar with the dental environment while giving parents helpful information about caring for their child's teeth.
During the visit, the doctor will gently examine your child's teeth and gums to check for healthy develoment and proper spacing. Your child will also receive a professional cleaning to remove plaque and help keep their teeth healthy.
Depending on your child's age and personality, some children may feel curious and excited, while others may feel unsure or even a little upset. These reactions are completely normal. Our team works patiently with children and takes time to help them feel supported throughout their visit.
We will also answer any questions you may have and provide guidance on caring for your child's teeth as they grow.
How can I prepare my child for their first dental appointment?
One of the best ways to prepare your child for their first dental visit is to keep the experience positive and relaxed. Children often take cues from their parents, so approaching the visit calmly can help them feel more comfortable.
You can show your child pictures of our office and explain that the dentist helps keep their teeth healthy and strong. Reading children's books about visiting the dentist or talking about the appointment in a simple, positive way can also help your child feel prepared.
Remember that pediatric dentists are specially trained to help children who feel nervous or unsure, and our team works patiently to help children feel supported during their visit.
How often should my child visit the dentist?
Most children benefit from dental checkups every six months. Regular visits allow us to monitor your child's growth and development, detect cavities early, and help children develop healthy dental habits.
Depending on your child's individual needs, we may sometimes recommend visits more frequently.
Baby teeth aren’t permanent. Why do they need special care?
Even though baby teeth eventually fall out, they play an important role in your child's development. Primary teeth help children chew, speak clearly, and smile with confidence.
They also hold space in the jaw for the permanent teeth developing underneath. When baby teeth are lost too early due to decay or injury, nearby teeth can shift into that space, which may lead to crowding or alignment problems later.
Healthy baby teeth also support your child's overall health and well-being.
What’s the best way to clean my baby’s teeth?
Even before your baby's first tooth appears, you can gently clean their gums with a damp, soft washcloth after feeds.
Once the first tooth appears, you can begin using a small toothbrush with soft bristles designed for infants.
As more teeth come in, brushing twice a day helps keep your child's teeth and gums healthy.
At what age is it appropriate to use toothpaste to clean my child’s teeth?
Once your child's first tooth appears, you can begin using a small amount of fluoridated toothpaste when brushing.
- For children under age 3, use an amount about the size of a grain of rise.
- For children ages 3 and older, a pea-sized amount is recommended.
Young children may swallow some toothpaste, which is why only a small amount should be used. Parents should assist with brushing until children develop the coordination to brush effectively on their own.
What causes cavities?
Cavities develop when bacteria in the mouth interact with sugars from food and drinks. These bacteria produce acids that gradually weaken and break down tooth enamel. Over time, this process can create small holes in the teeth that we call cavities.
Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits help prevent this process from progressing.
How can I help my child avoid cavities?
Encourage your child to brush their teeth twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste and floss daily once teeth begin touching. Regular brushing and flossing help remove plaque and bacteria that can lead to cavities.
Limiting sugary snacks and drinks, encouraging healthy eating habits, and maintaining regular dental checkups also play an important role in keeping your child's teeth healthy.
In some cases, your pediatric dentist may recommend additional preventive treatments such as fluoride or sealants.
Does my child need dental sealants?
Dental sealants are thin protective coatings applied to the grooves of the back teeth where cavities most often develop. These areas can be difficult for children to clean thoroughly with a toothbrush.
Sealants are a safe and effective way to help prevent cavities, especially on the molars where food and bacteria tend to collect.
My child plays sports. How can I protect their teeth?
Many sports involve contact or the risk of falls, which can lead to dental injuries. We recommend that children who participate in sports wear a mouthguard to help protect their teeth, lips, cheeks, and gums.
Because children's mouths are still growing, a store-bought mouthguard or a boil-and-bite mouthguard is often a practical option for many young athletes. These can provide good protection and can be replaced easily as your child grows.
If you have questions about choosing the right mouthguard for your child's sport, we're always happy to help guide you.
What should I do if my child sucks their thumb?
Thumb or finger sucking is very common in infants and young children. Many children gradually stop on their own as they grow.
If the habit continues as your child gets older -- especially once the permanent teeth begin to come in -- it may begin to affect the way the teeth and jaws develop.
If you have concerns about thumb sucking or finger sucking, we can evaluate your child's dental development and discuss gentle ways to help your child stop the habit if needed.
When should my child have dental X-rays taken?
Dental X-rays allow us to see areas between the teeth and beneath the gums that cannot be seen during a regular exam.
X-rays are not based strictly on age. Instead, they are recommended based on your child's individual risk for cavities and dental development. When teeth begin to touch, X-rays can help detect cavities that may form between them.
Children who have a higher risk for cavities may benefit from X-rays more frequently, while children at lower risk may need them less often. Our goal is always to use X-rays only when they provide important information for your child's care.