Frequently Asked Pediatric Dental Questions – San Ramon, CA
You Have Questions; We Have Answers
We understand that you care deeply about your child’s smile and oral well-being, and it’s our goal to ensure you can meet all their oral healthcare needs. Below is a list of frequently asked questions we invite you to review, along with their respective answers. These should provide you with a little more knowledge about various components of children’s dentistry. If you have any questions or do not see yours listed, don’t be afraid to call us!
How often should my child need to visit the dentist?
It is strongly recommended that you bring your child in to see us for a routine dental checkup and teeth cleaning every six months. Their first visit should occur when their first tooth erupts or by their first birthday, and continue from there. During these visits, we will ensure there are no signs of decay, cavities, or gum disease, since these issues aren’t always obvious. We can also inspect your child’s bite alignment and begin monitoring it.
Do you offer sedation dentistry?
Yes! Should your little one feel anxious about dental treatment, we offer numerous sedation dentistry treatment options. It is also a helpful solution if your child has difficulty sitting still for prolonged periods or needs to undergo multiple dental treatments during one appointment. With the help of sedation dentistry, we can easily create a more calming and relaxing environment that allows our staff to complete treatment more effectively and efficiently!
Do you treat children with special needs?
Yes, we do! Here at Gale Ranch Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics of San Ramon, we’re pleased to provide accommodations for children with special needs. Our team is well-versed and experienced in serving those with behavioral, physical, mental, and developmental disabilities, and we’re committed to ensuring a comfortable and safe experience for your child.
Will you take my dental insurance?
We are a proud, insurance-friendly dental practice that strongly believes in helping parents maximize their dental benefits each and every time they visit. We’ll carefully review your plan with you and discuss your available coverage so that you save as much as possible. This will keep your out-of-pocket expenses low while allowing your child to pursue greater oral health—a win-win!
What can I do as a parent to minimize the potential for tooth decay?
Some steps you can take as a parent to help your child avoid tooth decay include the following:
- Ensure they attend their biannual dental checkups and cleanings.
- Encourage them to eat healthy foods instead of loading up on sugary and starchy items.
- Have them wear a nightguard if they suffer from bruxism, or a protective mouthguard if they play sport.
- Make sure they’re practicing good oral hygiene habits at home by brushing and flossing each day.
What should I do if my child accidentally knocks out a permanent tooth?
While you might feel inclined to panic, it’s best to remain calm. You should call our office at once to alert us to the situation. Wwe will be here to help you through the process. If you can, retrieve the tooth, holding it only by the crown. Try to reinsert it into your child’s vacated socket. If this isn’t possible, place the tooth in a container of milk to keep the roots viable. Make sure to bring it with you to your child’s appointment so that we can determine if it’s possible for us to reattach it!