Your Child’s Visit to the Dentist – Frequently Asked Questions

School is out, and summer is here! Between all the great summer plans – many of us will use the time to catch up on our kids’ medical visits – including a visit to the dentist. Below are a list of frequently asked questions. If you have any questions that are not listed below, please feel free to reach out to us – our contact information is below – and we would be happy to answer.

At what age should my child first see a dentist? 

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that kids see the dentist by the age of 1, or within 6 months of when their first tooth comes in. Usually, the first appointment is focused on making your child feel comfortable and enjoying an easy, happy, stress-free visit.

What will happen during my child’s first dental visit?

The first visit is focused on making your child feel comfortable and establishing a relationship with the dentist. Normally, we ask the parents to sit in the chair and hold their child during a brief exam.

During the subsequent check-ups, the kids’ check-ups will include many of the following:

• Check for tooth decay (cavities)
• Check for proper dental, oral, and facial development
• Discuss any risk factors for developing tooth decay
• Talk about good oral health, home care, and how to have healthy teeth – for life
• Check for airway deficiencies and sleep apnea symptoms
• Examine the bite and check for any gum, jaw, or oral tissue health concerns
• Discuss any oral habits, like thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, etc.
• Review nutrition and feeding practices

Our goal is to make sure the kids grow up to be cavity free and loving their visits to the dentist!

When should children get their first dental X-rays and are they safe?

Dental x-rays for kids are normally recommended when the baby teeth grow in and touch, making it hard to see in between the teeth – at that point, we would normally recommend taking an x-ray to make sure that no cavities are forming in between the teeth.  Digital x-rays have 90% less radiation than traditional film – making them very safe and minimizing any unnecessary exposure.

Does my child need fluoride supplements?

Most communities’ water is fluoridated, so no extra supplementation is necessary. However, if the drinking water is deficient in fluoride – check with your dentist and come up with a plan that works best for your child and your family.

Does my child need sealants?

Sealants are recommended for teeth that have deep grooves, making them more susceptible to developing tooth decay (cavities). The sealant application is fast, comfortable, and can provide effective protection against cavities for many years.

Are the baby teeth really that important?

Baby teeth are so important! They help the kids maintain good nutrition, help with speech development, save space for permanent teeth, and promote a healthy smile – helping the kids look and feel great!

If you have any questions about your child’s dental needs – please feel free to reach out to us, call Reafield Dental at 980.500.3999 or email us at welcome@reafielddental.com.