Q: How can I make my child’s dental visit as positive as possible?

A: A pre-appointment doctor-parent consultation is a good first step for insuring a positive first visit.  If that is not feasible then hear are a few tips:  First, never let anyone tell your child scary dental stories, second never tell your child that the visit won’t hurt, that sets them up to expect pain. Third, don’t let your child know if you feel any anxiety about going to the dentist. Fourth, don’t bribe your child to go to the appointment and never use a dental visit as a punishment or threat. Finally and most important, be sure to tell your dentist if your child has ever had an unpleasant hospital emergency room visit or cried at a medical visit. 

Q: When should my baby’s teeth come in?

A: On average primary teeth, your child’s first set, usually begin to erupt at 6 months of age and continue to erupt until 25-33 months. At 6 years of age the first of the adult teeth begin to erupt and that process continues until 17-21 years when the third molars or wisdom teeth erupt. Again, these are average dates and each child will differ in their eruption process.

A: Protection against decay is possible, by covering teeth with a protective shield called a SEALANT. First recognized by the A.D.A. in 1971, it is one of the best kept secrets in dentistry. The A.D.A. states that as long as a sealant remains intact, the tooth surface will be protected from decay. Both children and adults can benefit from sealants. They are EASY AND PAIN FREE to place.

Flourides are a second option for preventing decay. In office fluoride gel applications and coating the teeth with a fluoride varnish greatly reduce the possibility of decay. Also, brushing twice a day with a fluoridated toothpaste, flossing once a day, fluorinated water and regular professional cleanings are the norm for preventing decay.

Q: What is a sealant? 

A: A sealant is a plastic resin covering the chewing surface of a tooth. It is bonded into the depressions and grooves of the chewing surface.  Its purpose is to act as a barrier, protecting the enamel of the chewing surface from decay.

Q: How long do sealants last?

A: Sealants usually last several years before a reapplication is needed. During regular dental visits part of the oral examination is to check the condition of your sealants.

Q: Are sealants just for kids?

A: Because decay starts early, kids are the usual candidate for sealants. But adults benefit from sealants too! A history of decay, lack of fluorides and chronic dry mouth are factors that help determine if an adult is a candidate for sealants.