faqs

Your child’s baby teeth started to develop before they were born. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that children have their first dental visit no later than their first birthday, in order to establish a dental home. The concept of a dental home represents the ongoing relationship between the dentist and patient, inclusive of all aspects of oral health care delivered in a comprehensive, continuously accessible, coordinated and family-centered way. It also includes referrals to dental specialists when appropriate. While there may not be many teeth to look at, this first visit is an opportunity for families to establish a positive oral health routine. Infant oral health is the foundation for a lifetime free from preventable oral disease.

At the first exam, we will get to know you and your child, reviewing medical and oral health histories, diet and oral care routines. Next, we will perform a comprehensive exam, looking for any issues with development or signs of decay. Dental cleanings, fluoride treatment and digital x-rays may be performed according to your child’s needs and only with your consent. You can help make your child’s visit a success by talking about it positively. Parents and caregivers are invited to stay with their child during appointments, and we welcome any questions or feedback you might have.

While a general dentist can provide care to children, only pediatric dentists receive additional experience and training specific to the unique social, emotional and developmental needs of infants, children and adolescents. They also have a great deal of skill treating patients with special needs.

Baby teeth fall out, so why do I need to care so much about them?

Primary teeth do fall out naturally, but it is important to care for them while they are in your child’s mouth. Cavities can lead to pain or infections, which may disrupt your child’s ability to eat, sleep, learn and grow. Baby teeth are also important place holders for the adult teeth that come later, and issues related to decay in primary teeth may lead to orthodontic problems as your child grows.

By focusing on preventative care, most dental and oral health issues can be avoided, or treated early and more easily. With children, once good oral care habits have been established, they are more likely to continue those behaviors into adulthood, maintaining healthy smiles for life.

Third Coast Pediatric Dentistry is a full-service practice. While we do place a great deal of emphasis on preventative care, sometimes that is not enough and it may become necessary to provide restorative treatment. Our team is able to work with you and your child to establish a treatment plan that is specific to your child’s oral health and developmental needs and addresses your concerns. We may recommend repairing or treating cavities, placing preventative sealants, and even removing teeth. No child, tooth, or situation is the same, and we can provide you with multiple treatment plans, allowing you to choose an option that you feel most comfortable with. Most of our restorative care is accomplished using local anesthetic, but we also have nitrous oxide (laughing gas) for more anxious patients, and even general anesthesia to facilitate comprehensive care for patients who are too young or unable to tolerate dental treatment in a typical setting.

We offer total emergency coverage for your child at Third Coast. In the event of a dental emergency, contact our office and we will promptly assess the problem and offer support or treatment as needed. We even make house calls!

The primary focus at Third Coast Pediatric Dentistry is on providing the highest possible quality care and service to our patients and their families. Our relationship is with you and your child, not your dental insurance company. We do not make treatment recommendations based on what kind of insurance you may have, or what your insurance company will cover. As a courtesy, we do file claims on your behalf, but payment is expected at the time of service. If you need to discuss alternate payment arrangements, we are happy to find a solution that will work for you.