We strongly recommend that a parent be present during their child’s treatment in case we should have any questions and/or issues. We understand there are times where you may need to leave during your child’s appointment. If this happens, we may require that you sign a waiver allowing us to perform the needed procedure(s) in your absence. We also require a phone number where you can be reached during that time. As a general rule, we do prefer a parent to be present during the duration of the appointment.

While we do not forbid a parent from going back with their child, it has been our experience that children typically do better when the parent is not in the room.

Yes, we see children of all ages. We do everything we can to make sure their first visit at Family Dental Center is a positive one. We want them to look forward to coming to the dentist!

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends taking your child to his or her first dental visit by the age of 1 year. Family Dental Center follows the protocols of the ADA, and we try to use this first appointment as a “get to know your child” visit. Children have teeth by age 1, and it is important to establish a dental home as early as possible. This has been shown to be effective in educating both parents and children.

The ADA has endorsed fluoride as a cavity preventer for years. It works by creating a harder enamel, more resistant to the harmful effects of the acid released by the bacteria known to cause cavities. Research has also indicated that fluoride is somehow involved in the process of inhibiting the bacteria itself.

Sealants are preventive “coverings” for your teeth that have deeper grooves on the chewing surfaces. It is a non-invasive process where your hygienist places a resin material on the grooves, smoothing them out, to prevent food and bacteria from getting caught in the areas. They are usually recommended for your 6 year and 12 year molars, but may be recommended on other teeth as well.

It is recommended that children stop using their pacifier no later than age 3. If the habit continues, they can develop crooked teeth and/or bite problems.

One possible reason children may grind their teeth may be due to the unstable bite that is present with baby teeth. As children grow, baby teeth are lost and adult teeth come in. These changes occur over a number of years, and during that time, children may grind. Once the bite stabilizes with adult teeth, often times, children stop grinding their teeth.

Children normally get their first tooth around 6 months old.