We recommend that children and young adults visit the dentist every six months for routine check-ups and cleanings. Regular visits help ensure optimal oral health, allow for early detection of potential issues, and reinforce good dental habits. 

During a routine dental visit, we will perform a comprehensive examination of your child’s teeth and gums, check for cavities, and assess their overall oral health. A professional cleaning will follow, where plaque and tartar are removed. Dr. Robinson may also provide guidance on proper oral hygiene practices and dietary recommendations. 

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children have their first dental appointment by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting. Early visits help establish a positive relationship with the dentist and allow for monitoring of dental development. 

Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth, where cavities commonly form. They create a barrier against food particles and plaque, significantly reducing the risk of decay, especially in children who may struggle with brushing effectively in these hard-to-reach areas. 

Pediatric dental treatments include cavity fillings, crowns for damaged teeth, tooth extractions, and pulp therapy (root canals) for infected teeth. Some treatments may involve orthodontic evaluations and referrals, as well as preventive services like fluoride and dental sealants. 

Yes, pediatric dental treatments are designed to be safe and effective for children. Pediatric dentists are specifically trained to work with children and use techniques that prioritize their comfort and well-being. Before any treatment, we will discuss the procedure, potential benefits, and any risks involved, ensuring that both the child and their parents feel informed and confident. 

Let us do the work for you! It’s natural that children are curious and families want to do their best to prepare their children for treatment; however, when relying on a parents’ own experience to convey how our staff completes treatment, it can sometimes inadvertently cause more anxiety in the child.  

“We are specifically trained in “Children-ese”, speaking to the child in age-appropriate terms and phrases to tell them exactly what will take place and how it will happen. We also use advanced technology that makes our procedures more gentle and appropriate for children to help them remain calm, cooperative, and comfortable throughout the treatment. Often, the best response to your child’s question of “how will they do that?” is “I’m not exactly sure, but I know they will explain every single step, answer every single question, and take the very best care of you!” – because all of that is true!

If your child knocks out an adult tooth (the tooth formed after the initial baby teeth have been naturally replaced), it’s important to act quickly. Find the tooth and only handle it by the crown, avoiding the root. Rinse it gently with water to clean it, but do not scrub it. If possible, place the tooth back in the socket. If that’s not feasible, store it in a container with milk or saline contact solution. Contact our office immediately for further guidance and to schedule an immediate emergency appointment. 

You should seek emergency dental care if your child experiences severe pain, bleeding that doesn’t stop, a knocked-out tooth, a broken or fractured tooth, or any injury to the mouth or jaw. Other signs that may indicate an emergency include swelling, a tooth abscess, or a dental infection. If you are unsure, it’s best to contact us directly for advice on the next steps. 

During an emergency dental visit, our team will quickly assess your child’s condition and provide immediate care to address the issue. This may involve pain relief, treatment to save a knocked-out tooth, or other necessary procedures to manage the emergency. We will communicate clearly with both you and your child throughout the process to ensure comfort. 

At the initial consultation, we require a parent or legal guardian to accompany the child to the treatment area. This allows for open communication about any dental concerns, oral hygiene, and recommendations, as well as reviewing medical history and discussing necessary treatment.  

For subsequent appointments, we have an “open door” policy – meaning parents are always welcome to accompany their child to the treatment area but are not required to do so. Additional guests are required to wait in the waiting room. This helps to minimize distractions and ensures that our team can communicate effectively with the patient and parents.