Frequently Asked Dental Questions – Wylie, TX
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Questions You Have
As a parent, it’s completely natural to wonder about how you can help boost your child’s oral health and encourage them to build good habits. Our team loves collaborating with parents and answering these types of questions. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common concerns that we get from parents. If you don’t see the information you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to reach out to us directly.
How often do children need to visit their dentist?
Just like adults, it’s important to bring your child to the dentist’s office once every six months for a checkup and cleaning. This will ensure that there isn’t an opportunity for small oral health problems to become more serious and keep their teeth and gums healthy. It will also get them acquainted with the dentist so they don’t feel nervous visiting the dental office.
Why should I bring my child to a pediatric dentist?
Pediatric dentists are specially trained to care for developing smiles, and they offer a wide range of treatments to do just that. They are required to undergo an additional two to three-year residency following dental school to be able to treat children’s smiles, and in Dr. Pearson’s case, he has also completed rigorous examinations to become Board-Certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.
What dental hygiene products do you recommend for children?
For children, it’s important that you choose a small toothbrush that they can comfortably fit into their mouth and grasp. Make sure that it’s soft-bristled as well. If it’s not, it could cause their gums to bleed or result in enamel erosion. It’s also a good idea to choose a special children’s toothpaste that’s a fun flavor. If they’re three years or older, be sure to start using a small amount of fluoride toothpaste, which will help prevent cavities.
When should my child start flossing their teeth?
It’s not really necessary to start flossing your child’s teeth until they begin to fit closer together, which typically happens around two to four years old. If your child has the dexterity to do it themselves, spend the first couple of times showing them how. Then, you can monitor them as they try it on their own.
Why are space maintainers necessary for children?
Space maintainers aren’t necessary for every child, but for a little one who loses a temporary tooth too soon, they can ensure that their permanent teeth grow in properly.
My child is scared of the dentist. Can you help?
Dr. Pearson offers sedation dentistry for children that’s completely safe and can help them have a better experience at the dentist’s office. If your child is especially anxious or scared about their appointment, be sure to speak to our staff before you come so we can work together with you to create a plan to help them feel at-ease.
What should I do to prepare my child for their first dental appointment?
We recommend that parents help prepare their child for their first dental appointment by reading them a fun book about visiting the dentist and describing what the process is like using positive and fun language. If you feel anxious about the dentist, be sure to not carry those feelings to your child, because it could make them especially nervous.