FAQ
Q. What age should I bring my child to the dentist?
A. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, children should see a dentist by their first birthday or within 6 months of the eruption of their first tooth. Early and regular dental visits are the best way to safeguard your child's oral health.
Q. How often should my child see a dentist?
A. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentists (AAPD) and the American Dental Association (ADA) guidelines recommend your child visit a dentist at least twice a year for a check-up and professional cleaning. Our office also recommends a minimum of two visits per year.
Q. What is the difference between a dentist and a pediatric dentist?
A. Pediatric dentists complete 2-3 years of additional training after becoming a dentist. Your child's dentist should be board certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry (ABPD). This certification is for dentists who have completed an accredited residency program in pediatric dentistry and passed a rigorous exam.
Board certification proves that a dentist has the knowledge and skills necessary to provide high-quality care to children. The ABPD requires its members to maintain their certification by completing continuing education courses, ensuring the pediatric dentist is up-to-date on the latest advances in pediatric dentistry.
Dr. Steve and Dr. Dennis are Board Certified Pediatric Dentists trained in child psychology, growth and development, emergency care, and the behavioral aspects associated with the anxiety most often experienced by a child.
Q. Should my child with special needs see a pediatric dentist?
A. Board Certified Pediatric Dentists have specialized training in caring for children with special needs. They are well equipped and prepared to work with all children including children with autism, sensory issues, anxiety, cognitive or behavior issues and physical disabilities. By choosing a pediatric dentist who specializes in treating special needs children, you can help your child feel more comfortable and confident during their dental visits, leading to better oral health and a positive experience overall.
Q. What do I do if my child has a dental emergency?
A. Please call our office as soon as you determine that your child needs emergency dental care. We will be glad to work your child in to the schedule if your child requires urgent dental care during regular business hours. If your child is an established patient of record, after hours or over the holidays, please call our office for the doctors' emergency contact numbers.
Q. What are your sterilization procedures?
A. Your child's health is important to us, and our practice follows the most advanced guidelines for instrument sterilization and infection control from the CDC and the ADA. We utilize state-of-the-art sterilization equipment that destroys all contaminants including Covid-19. Each instrument is cleaned and sterilized after each use. Disposable instruments and instruments that cannot be sterilized are discarded after one use. Our staff disinfects all surfaces and changes gloves and masks between patient visits. You can be assured that our practice takes every step possible to ensure the health and safety of your child!
Q. Why are pediatric dentists so expensive?
A. In most cases, the cost difference between a general dentist and a pediatric dentist is not dramatic. The cost of pediatric dentistry reflects the extra training and specialized care your child receives from the pediatric dentist. It also includes specialized technology and equipment tailored to children.
Q. Why is my pediatric dentist out-of-network with my dental insurance plan?
A. In-network dentists have an agreement with the insurance company to accept a discounted reimbursement rate that the insurance company sets for them. The dentist is referred patients through the network and patients will benefit from seeking an in-network provider with lower out of pocket expenses, deductibles and copayments.
Out-of-network pediatric dentists typically do not have an agreement with insurance companies as the delivery of specialized dental care is often challenging to discount. However, it is still likely that they accept your insurance, enabling you to utilize your dental benefits. If you have a POS (Point of Service Plan) you have the option to seek care from an out-of-network provider. Many patients with these plans enjoy little to no difference in benefits.
If you have dental insurance for your child, you will likely want to find a pediatric dentist who accepts your insurance. You can usually find more information by contacting your dentist or dental insurance company.
Q. Why do I need to complete a health history form for my child prior to dental visits?
A. Your child's health history is crucial in order to deliver safe and comprehensive dental services. A complete medical history will help the pediatric dentist prepare and deliver dentistry in the best way possible for each patient.
Patients with underlying health conditions, special needs, allergies, anxiety or patients taking certain medications for example, may require a different approach to their dental care.