FAQ’s
First Visits & Appointments
When should my child first see a dentist?
We recommend scheduling your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth coming in. Early visits help prevent cavities and allow us to guide you before problems start.
What happens at my child’s first visit?
First visits are gentle and educational. We check teeth and gums, review habits like brushing and diet, and help your child feel confident and comfortable.
How long does the first appointment take?
Most visits last 45-60 minutes, depending on your child’s age and needs.
Can I stay with my child during the appointment?
Absolutely. We welcome parents and will guide you on how to support a calm, positive experience.
Prevention & Home Care
How often should my child visit the dentist?
Most children benefit from visits every six months. Some may need more frequent care based on risk or specific needs.
Is fluoride safe for children?
Yes. When used properly, fluoride is both safe and highly effective in preventing cavities. We tailor in-office treatments and home guidance by age.
For our families with reservations, we provide fluoride free/hydroxyapatite based solutions. At your visit, Dr. Sharma can discuss with you what is best for your family.
What are dental sealants?
Sealants are protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of molars. They help prevent cavities and are often recommended when permanent molars appear.
X-Rays & Safety
Are dental X-rays safe for kids?
Yes. Modern digital X-rays use extremely low radiation, and we only take them when truly needed for safe, accurate care.
How often will my child need X-rays?
That depends on their age, cavity risk, and exam findings. We always aim to use the fewest images necessary.
Anxiety, Sensory Needs & Sedation
My child is nervous about the dentist. How do you help?
We specialize in child-friendly care using gentle techniques, kid-paced visits, and behavior strategies to reduce anxiety.
Do you offer laughing gas?
Yes! Nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”) is a safe, effective option to help children relax during treatment.
What sedation options are available?
We offer nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation depending on your child’s needs and the procedure.
Do you see children with special healthcare needs?
Absolutely. We tailor care to each child’s needs and take time to understand medical, sensory, or developmental considerations.
Emergencies & Urgent Care
What is considered a dental emergency?
Severe tooth pain, swelling, broken teeth, or dental trauma are all emergencies. If you’re unsure, call us—we’ll help assess the situation.
What should I do if my child knocks out a tooth?
Call us immediately. Quick action can often save the tooth or prevent long-term issues.
Growth, Habits & Development
Do you monitor my child’s growth and bite?
Yes. We track tooth eruption, spacing, jaw growth, and bite alignment to catch and manage concerns early.
When should I worry about thumb-sucking or pacifier use?
These habits are normal in early childhood. We evaluate frequency and duration and offer guidance if they start to impact development.
Do you evaluate airway health?
Yes. We screen for signs like snoring, mouth breathing, or chronic congestion and discuss next steps if needed.
Practical Questions for Rural Families
We live outside Willis. How can we make visits easier?
Complete forms ahead of time, bring your insurance info, and let us know your concerns in advance. This helps us keep your visit smooth and efficient.
Can I bring siblings to the appointment?
Yes! Let us know in advance if you’re bringing more than one child so we can schedule accordingly.
Do you accept insurance? What about Medicaid or CHIP?
We work with many insurance plans and accept Medicaid/CHIP. Bring your insurance information so we can assist with coverage.