Question 1

At what stage should my child first visit the dentist?

Accepted Answer

Typically children should have their teeth checked by a dentist at least twice a year from 2 years old to promote a healthy smile, but you can bring your child to the dentist as soon as their first tooth erupts.

Question 2

What should we expect on the first visit to L'Anse Family Dental?

Accepted Answer

Our initial contact will be a chance to get to know your child, examine their teeth, carry out x-rays if necessary and develop an individual treatment plan based on your child’s need and developmental stage.
 
It is best for the parent to explain beforehand that all we will do is count the child’s teeth, and most importantly to avoid using emotive phrases such as “it won’t hurt”.

Question 3

How do I brush my child's teeth properly?

Accepted Answer

Teeth should be brushed for two minutes twice a day: after breakfast and last thing before bed for 2-3 minutes. Floride toothpaste should be left on teeth – spit don’t rinse.
 
Supervise your children until they get the hang of these simple steps:
 
Using a soft-bristled toothbrush, brush the inside surface of each tooth first. Brush gently  back and forth.
 
Clean the outer surfaces of each tooth. Angle the brush along the outer gum line.
Gently brush back and forth. Brush the chewing surface of each tooth. Gently brush back and forth.
 
Use the tip of the brush to clean behind each front tooth, both top and bottom. Don’t forget the tongue-it’s always fun to brush!

Question 4

What are sealants?

Accepted Answer

Sealants are clear or colored plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back permanent teeth, where decay occurs most often. Sealants fill in the grooved and pitted surfaces of the teeth which are hard to clean and prevent food particles from getting caught, possibly causing cavities. They are quick and comfortable to apply, and can effectively protect teeth for 5-10 years

Question 5

How do I know if my child will require braces in the future?

Accepted Answer

The majority of children who may need braces don’t need to visit the orthodontist until all of their permanent teeth have erupted – at 11-13 years. Some children benefit from an earlier intervention – your dentist will let you know at your child’s regular check-up.

There are some specific signs that your child may need braces, including crooked or overlapping teeth, overly crowded teeth, losing baby teeth too soon, or malocclusion (misalignment of bite).

Question 6

What should I do if my child chips/breaks or knocks out a tooth?

Accepted Answer

With any injury to your child’s mouth, you should contact us immediately. Dr Carmody will want to examine the affected area and determine the appropriate treatment. If possible, keep any part of the tooth that has broken off and take this with you.
 
If a tooth is completely knocked out of the mouth by an injury, take the tooth to your dentist as soon as possible. Handle the tooth as little as possible-do not wipe or otherwise clean the tooth. Store the tooth in a cup of fresh milk.
 
It may be possible for the tooth to be placed back into your child’s mouth, in a procedure called re-implantation!

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PATIENT INFORMATION

Got a question?

Check out our most frequently asked questions below :

How often do I need to go to the dentist?

What does a hygienist do?

I have some staining on my teeth, how can I fix it?"

I chipped my tooth, what can I do?"

I'm terrified of the dentist, do you treat nervous/anxious patients?"

What's the difference between crowns and veneers?

What is an implant?

How do I know if I have periodontal disease?

Children's Dentistry FAQ :