Frequently Asked Questions

When should I bring my child for the first visit?

As specialists in dentistry for children, we are able to evaluate the oral and dental conditions of children of any age. We suggest the first “Well Baby Visit” at about twelve months of age, or when the four upper and lower front teeth are in. Starting your child early with preventive dentistry can help to avoid a lifetime of dental problems.

What if my child does not want to separate from me?

We have an open door policy and invite you to accompany your child whenever you desire.

Do you take dental insurance?

We are experienced in helping you to maximize the dental benefits you may be entitled to. We are able to evaluate and process almost any dental insurance.

Where can I buy affordable dental insurance?

It is virtually impossible for you as an individual to purchase dental insurance that will pay out more than you will pay in premiums. Otherwise, everyone who needs dental services would buy insurance only when they need benefits, and the insurance company would lose money. (Similarly, you can’t buy fire insurance after your house is on fire!)

For families without an employer sponsored dental plan, the best use of your dental health care budget is to provide your child with routine and effective preventive care at home and in our office. We can work together to minimize the need for extensive dental treatment.

What if my child cries?

Most children respond positively to the attention and care they receive in our office. However, even when a child cries when faced with a new and unfamiliar place, almost every child eventually comes to trust us and accept any necessary treatment gracefully. An essential factor in the success of your child’s reaction is your willingness to support us in our efforts to help your child. A calm, positive and, when necessary, firm parent is an invaluable member of the team.

How do I stop my child from eating candy?

Naturally, children will eat what is provided to them, and the establishment of good eating habits should be started early. This is no reason for very young children to be given sweet, sugar containing foods as it merely conditions them to crave more and removes the urge for other food that is healthy. As children get older, your efforts to provide wholesome, homecooked meals and snacks will have a positive effect on their general and dental health.

Can children brush their own teeth, or do they need my help?

You should brush your child’s teeth. We recommend parental brushing at least once a day, preferably in the evening, until your child reaches age 8.

Should my child take fluoride?

Fluoride helps strengthen teeth and reduces tooth decay. Fluoride is applied in many forms. Since the needs of each child is often different, we will evaluate your child’s individual situation. Appropriate recommendations for your child will be offered at the time of the first dental visit and continuously revised at each recall visit.

Why should we fill cavities in “baby teeth”?

Dental decay can progress rapidly in young children, often leading to pain and infection. Sometimes a neglected tooth will need to be removed, leading to the crowding of the permanent teeth. Most of the time, dental decay should be treated early to avoid more costly and difficult treatment in the future.

What if we have a dental emergency?

Accidents can happen at the most inconvenient times. As a patient in our practice, you can receive emergency advice and care 24/7 from our doctors in the event your child has an urgent dental problem. Please call us at (408) 249-5121 if there is a situation that simply cannot wait until normal office hours.

How safe are dental X-rays?

There is very little risk with dental x-rays, and they do provide vital information about dental decay and tooth development. We are especially careful to limit the amount of exposure by only taking films that are really necessary (as determined by the dentist), using lead aprons and utilizing high-speed film. We are always available to discuss the importance of the very few dental x-rays we require.

Are thumbsucking and pacifier habits harmful for a child’s teeth?

Thumb and pacifier sucking habits will generally only become a problem if they go on for a very long time. Most children seem to stop these habits on their own, but some persist even when the permanent teeth erupt. Your pediatric dentist will discuss treatment options and timing with you at your child's regular check-up visits.