Frequently Asked Questions
What you want to know
Dr. King invites you to read answers to many questions that he receives from parents and patients.
Infants & Toddlers
What should I use to clean my baby’s teeth?
A toothbrush will remove plaque and bacteria that can lead to decay. Brush the teeth at least once a day at bedtime—even a soft wash cloth will suffice. Avoid putting the baby to bed with a bottle, unless it’s water.
When should I take my child to the dentist for the first check-up?
A good rule of thumb is “First visit by first birthday” in order to establish a “Dental Home” for your child. Early preventive dental care will protect your child’s smile for a lifetime.
General Dentistry
Are baby teeth really that important to my child?
The Purposes of primary, or baby teeth are:
…to help children speak clearly,
…to assist them in chewing naturally,
…to provide space and positioning for permanent teeth.
Do You Treat Children With Special Needs?
Yes! Dr. King provides special care for these special children. If your child has special needs, you have found the right dentist. Dr. King has 20 years of experience in giving special needs children the highly focused attention they require. Dr. King treats young patients with limitations from: Cerebral Palsy, Brain Stem Injuries, Down Syndrome, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, intellectually Disabled, Autism Spectrum Disorders and Cleft Palette.
Dental Emergencies
What should I do if my child has a toothache?
Rinse the irritated area with warm salt water. In the case of swelling, place a cold compress on the face and immediately contact Dentistry for Children.
What should I do if my child falls and knocks out a tooth?
Keep calm and find the tooth! Put it in a glass of milk and call Dr. King. If the tooth is chipped or broken, remember to bring all the pieces.
Prevention
Why Does Dr. King recommend sealants?
Sealants are protective coatings that provide a barrier against food and plaque, which cause cavities. Sealants are applied to the top surface of the teeth where the “grooves” of the teeth are. This protects the biting surface from decay.
How do I know if my child is getting the right amount of fluoride?
If your family drinks bottled water, well water, or your water is not fluoridated, Dr. King might prescribe fluoride supplements. To avoid giving children too much fluoride, we advise you to give your child only a pea-sized amount of toothpaste, to prevent them from swallowing an excessive amount of fluoride.
How can parents help prevent tooth decay?
Here at Dentistry for Children, we can recommend a specific program of brushing and flossing for parents to teach their children. This program, combined with regular dental visits, fluoride, sealants and a balanced diet, will give your child healthy dental habits—and a great smile, for life.