Have Questions? We’ve Got Answers.
We know parents want the very best for their children, and that includes their dental care. To make things easier, we’ve gathered answers to some of the most common questions we hear from families about pediatric dentistry, our office, and what to expect at appointments. If you don’t see your question here, we’re always happy to chat, just give us a call!
About Our Practice
How do I schedule an appointment?
You're welcome to call our office at 469-887-9292 to schedule your appointment or request one online, and we'll contact you to confirm your selection.
What is your cancellation or rescheduling policy?
We request that you contact our office 48 hours prior to your appointment. Multiple late cancellations and no-shows may result in a dismissal from the practice.
Are you accepting new patients?
Yes. We're happy to accept new patients. We're always excited to provide new and existing patients with cutting-edge dental care. We look forward to meeting you and your child!
Do you offer weekend or late appointments?
No, but we do offer 24/7 emergency care.
Is your office accessible to children with special needs?
Absolutely. Please let us know in advance if your child requires any special arrangements. We're happy to make any needed accommodations.
Why Choose a Pediatric Dentist?
Why would you choose a pediatric dentist for your child's dental care?
General and pediatric dentists are trained and qualified to diagnose and treat children's oral health concerns. However, pediatric dentists are specialists who undergo two years of advanced training after dental school to learn how to best care for children’s smiles. Moreover, pediatric dentistry practices are designed with children in mind, with entertaining waiting areas and kid-size tools and equipment. Our pediatric dentists are well-equipped to deal with any personality that walks through our doors and know how to make every visit fun and free of stress.
What ages do pediatric dentists treat?
Pediatric dentists are specialists in treating babies, children, and teens up to age 21.
Can my teenager come alone to a dental appointment?
We request that a parent or guardian accompany any patient under 18 during dental visits. It's important to answer your questions, address your concerns, and discuss any findings and treatment plans with you and your child.
Dental Emergencies
What if my child has a dental emergency?
At Happy Harbor, we take 24/7 emergency calls. If your child has a dental emergency, please give us a call. We'll do everything we can to provide a same-day appointment. If your child needs urgent dental care outside our office hours, please call our emergency number for guidance.
What counts as a dental emergency?
A dental emergency is a situation requiring urgent care to relieve severe pain, treat an infection, save a tooth, or control bleeding. We invite you to call us right away if you feel your child requires urgent dental care. However, if your child experiences a life-threatening emergency such as uncontrolled bleeding or a fractured jaw, call 911 or head to your nearest emergency room.
Routine Care & Prevention
How often should I bring my child in for routine dental checkups?
Children typically require dental exams and cleanings every six months. However, children at a higher risk of dental problems may require more frequent visits. Routine dental checkups enable us to monitor your child's development and rule out problems with the teeth, gums, bite, and jaw.
Regular dental visits allow us to remove plaque and tartar buildup, lowering the risk of tooth decay and cavities. They also reveal dental problems in their earliest stages, when they are easiest to treat. Your child will learn to value good oral health and understand that dental care is an integral component of one’s everyday routine.
When will my baby's first tooth appear?
Each child is unique with varying teething times. Generally, the first baby teeth to appear are the lower front teeth at around six months but can emerge as late as 12 months. In all, your child will have 20 primary teeth that should stay in place until around age six.
What can I do to help my child with teething?
Teething is an important milestone for your child, but unfortunately, it isn't always a pleasant experience. Consider massaging your child's gums or offer a refrigerated - not frozen - pacifier or teething toy to soothe those sore gums. Teething infants love to chew, so you may want to offer a teething cracker after checking with your child's pediatrician. We do not recommend using topical anesthetics, which may be harmful to your child.
Why are baby teeth so important if they will fall out eventually?
Even though your baby's primary teeth will eventually fall out, it's important to keep them healthy. They play an essential role in helping your child speak, chew, and smile properly. They also act as placeholders for the permanent teeth yet to erupt. If a primary tooth falls out too early due to decay or trauma, the nearby teeth can shift, leading to crooked adult teeth, overcrowding, and problems with the bite. Maintaining healthy baby teeth is important for your child’s oral health and development.
What is dental decay or dental caries?
Tooth decay, also known as dental caries, is the most common chronic childhood disease, usually resulting from poor oral hygiene. If not treated, the decay can progress to the innermost portions of the tooth, affecting the pulp and nerves. Maintaining proper oral hygiene habits at home and keeping up with your child's routine dental checkups will lower the risk of tooth decay and cavities.
What causes cavities?
When sugary foods aren't cleaned off by regular brushing and flossing, cavity-causing bacteria feast on them and produce acids. These acids attack the tooth enamel, eating through it and creating holes called cavities.
How can I help my child prevent tooth decay?
Brushing at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste helps remove plaque and prevents it from hardening to tartar. Flossing on a regular basis is also very important because it can clean places between the teeth that brushing may not reach. Make sure your child maintains a healthy, balanced diet and limits sugary drinks and beverages. Moreover, schedule regular dental visits every six months to allow us to monitor your child's oral health and provide treatment whenever necessary.
What is early childhood decay (ECC)?
Early childhood decay, also known as baby bottle tooth decay, refers to cavities in children under age six. The first signs of ECC are typically white spots near the gum line. It is usually the result of frequent, prolonged exposure to foods and liquids high in sugar, including milk and juice. To prevent ECC, avoid putting your child in bed with a bottle of milk and juice and transition to a sippy cup by the first birthday. Moreover, make sure to clean your child's gums and teeth right from the start.
When should I start cleaning my child's teeth?
Even before your baby's first tooth erupts, it's important to clean the gums after feedings with a damp, clean washcloth. As soon as the first tooth erupts, you can start using water and a soft-bristled baby toothbrush. When you come in for your child's first dental visit, we'll show you how to care for your child's smile.
When should I start using fluoride toothpaste?
Start introducing fluoridated toothpaste when your child's teeth begin erupting. Begin with just a rice-sized amount of toothpaste and teach your child to spit it out. From ages 3 to 6, use a tiny, pea-sized amount of toothpaste. Supervise brushing until you are confident your child can brush thoroughly and responsibly, around age 7 or 8.
How important is my child's diet in preventing tooth decay?
Your child's diet plays a vital role in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Limit sugary treats and ensure your child consumes a balanced diet, including foods from the major food groups. These include meat, fish, vegetables, fruits, cereal, bread, and dairy products. If your child wants a snack, offer a healthy option, such as cheese, nuts, raw vegetables, or fresh fruits.
Your Child’s First Dental Visit
When should I schedule my child's first dental visit?
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Dental Association, you should schedule your baby's first dental visit when the first tooth erupts and no later than the first birthday. Caring for your child's oral health right from the start will set the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
How can I prepare my child for the first dental appointment?
The best way to prepare for your child's first dental appointment is to maintain a positive, upbeat attitude. Your child will pick up on any apprehension or fear you have and react accordingly. Talk to your child enthusiastically about visiting the dentist, and take some time to share pictures of our office and staff on our website. The more excited you are about this important milestone, the more likely your child will follow suit.
What happens during your child's first dental visit?
First dental visits are typically short and straightforward. We'll take time to get to know you and your child in a happy and friendly environment. Our dentist will evaluate your child's oral health, including teeth placement and health and any potential problems with the gums and jaw. We will answer your questions, address any concerns, and provide you with information about caring for your child's teeth as they develop.
Ready for your appointment?
Chart a Course to a Healthy Smile!
Your child's journey to a confident, healthy smile starts here. Whether it's their first appointment or you're already part of our Happy Harbor Pediatric Dentistry family, we're here to make every visit one your child will enjoy again and again. We invite you to schedule your child's appointment today!