A Child’s Dentist’s Frequently Asked Questions – Hales Corners, WI

Parents often have questions regarding their child’s dental care. It is natural to have questions about your child’s dentist visits and how to care appropriately for their dental health. At Satula Family Dental, we believe that early dental visits are essential to establishing lifelong healthy dental habits. We hope we can answer the most frequent questions here.

When should my child have their first dental visit?

Within 6 months of your child getting their first baby tooth or when they are one year old, whichever happens first. Primary teeth are just as important as permanent teeth and should be monitored carefully.

Can I take my child to our general family dentist rather than a pediatric dentist?

Absolutely! A family dentist is experienced with patients of all ages, including children, and will put your child at ease. Visiting the dentist with other family members establishes trust and reinforces the importance of visiting the dentist regularly. If your child has a complex dental problem that would benefit from a pediatric dentist’s care, we will refer your child to one of our professional colleagues.

What happens at your child’s first dental visit?

The first visit to the dentist focuses on making your child comfortable with our doctors and the dental health care team. There is lots of show and tell, with your child exploring and becoming familiar with our equipment.

Once your child is comfortable, we do a growth and development check. We apply fluoride to the teeth to strengthen the enamel and help prevent cavities. We also provide parents with guidance on cavity prevention and oral development so you can help protect your child’s oral health.

We take care to make your child’s first visit to the dentist, and every visit after, lots of fun so they associate our office with friends who care about them. At the end of the visit, there is always a prize for your child to take home.

How often should toddlers go to the dentist?

Every six months for a checkup and professional dental cleaning.

When should I start brushing my child’s teeth?

When your child’s first tooth erupts, begin brushing twice a day. Use a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste. Use a small amount, no bigger than a grain of rice, until they understand not to swallow it, which is around age three. Once they can spit adequately, use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. Floss your child’s teeth daily before the evening brushing.

Why are baby teeth so important?

Baby teeth are the foundation for permanent teeth. They provide proper spacing for when the permanent teeth come in. They also help your child eat a healthy diet and speak clearly.

What age do permanent teeth come in?

Your child’s first permanent tooth will come in at around age six. They will continue to get permanent teeth, including molars, until they are 12 to 14 years old. Some children may also get their wisdom teeth, which may not erupt until they are between 16 and 18.

What do cavities look like in toddlers?

A child’s cavity usually looks like a dark spot or hole in the tooth. However, by the time you can see it, the cavity may be extensive. Cavities are not visible when they start and usually are located between or within the tooth. This is why dental checkups and x-rays are so important – so we can catch and treat cavities before they become problems.

Is fluoride necessary for children?

Yes, fluoride is an essential tool in preventing cavities. You should use fluoride toothpaste the size of a rice grain from the time you begin brushing your child’s teeth. Once they can spit out the toothpaste, you can use a pea-sized amount.

How can I prevent cavities in my child’s teeth?

There is a lot you can do to protect your child’s teeth from cavities, including:

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, especially before bed
• Floss daily
• Avoid hidden sugars, even in fruits and organic foods
• Limit the number of snacks between meals
• Limit milk and juices to mealtimes. Water is best between meals.
• Visit your kid’s dentist regularly.

If you have additional questions regarding your child’s dental health, please do not hesitate to contact us at Satula Family Dental Phone Number (414) 425-1510. We are always happy to welcome a new member to the Satula Family Dental family.