FAQs for Pediatric Dentist I Kids Dentist I Austin, TX

Frequently Asked Questions

Going to the dentist usually comes with a lot of questions, fears and concerns. Bringing your child to the dentist can be even more uncomfortable and scary. To help you with your questions and concerns, we collected a series of questions we hear frequently. We encourage you to ask us as many questions as you might have!

What is a Pediatric Dentist?

A pediatric dentist is specially trained to work with children, much like the way a pediatrician is trained after medical school to care for children. After completing dental school, pediatric dentists go on to train for an additional two to three years to learn all the unique needs of children.

How early should I bring in my child?

The younger a child is when introduced to the dental office, the easier it is for them to develop a positive association with it. Another very important reason is the chance we can detect and manage early signs of oral disease or abnormalities before they become a more difficult problem to solve. Last, it provides parents with the resources and education to give their child the very best chance of growing up with a bright and healthy smile.

When will my child’s teeth come in?

Typically, children start getting teeth between 6 and 12 months of age. By the time they are three, they usually will have all 20 baby teeth. It is important to begin brushing your child’s teeth as soon as they grow in the mouth, since the germs that cause cavities can begin to colonize the mouth once teeth are present.

Anesthesia: Is it safe for my child?

When administered correctly, local anesthesia is safe for children. Our team is highly trained in anesthesia delivery, and we always communicate to children in an age appropriate manner, prior to administering the anesthetic.

Baby teeth: How important are they?

Primary or “baby” teeth help children speak clearly and chew naturally, and they also aid in forming a path for permanent teeth to follow when they are ready to come in, or “erupt.”

Baby teeth: Should cavities in baby teeth be filled?

Tooth decay is an infection that can spread, possibly causing impairment of general health, pain and premature loss of baby teeth if neglected. Proper care of baby teeth is instrumental in enhancing the health of your child.

Cavities: How can I help prevent them?

Parents should take their children to the dentist regularly, beginning with the eruption of the first tooth. We will provide you with individualized instructions for brushing, flossing and other treatments, and we will teach parents how to supervise and teach their children to follow our guidance. In-home treatments, regular dental visits and a balanced diet will help give your child a lifetime of healthy habits.

Diet and nutrition: What foods are best for my child’s dental health?

Eating the right foods is essential to great dental health. Your child needs a balanced diet, including one serving each of fruits and vegetables, breads and cereals, dairy and protein (meat, fish or eggs) each meal. Limit their intake of sugars and starches to help prevent decay. We discuss your child’s diet needs during your dental visit.

Family Dentist vs. Pediatric Dentist: Is there a difference?

Unlike a family dentist, Pediatric dentists only treat children. A pediatric dentist has two to three years of specialty training following dental school, and we are primary and specialty oral care providers for infants and children through adolescence, including those with special health needs.

Permanent teeth: What if one gets knocked out?

First, it’s important to remain calm. If possible, find the tooth and, holding it by the crown (top) rather than the root (where the tooth meets the gums), put it back it its socket. Hold the tooth in place with clean gauze or a washcloth. If you can’t put the tooth back in its socket, place the tooth in a clean container of milk and bring your child and the tooth to our office immediately. The faster you act, the better your chances of saving the tooth.

Toothpaste: When should I begin using it and how do I use it?

The sooner the better! Starting at birth, clean your child’s gums with a soft infant toothbrush or a cloth and water. As soon as the teeth begin to appear, start brushing twice a day with non‐fluoridated toothpaste and a soft, age‐appropriate sized toothbrush. Once your child can spit, use a “smear” of fluoride. Remember that young children do not have the ability to brush their teeth effectively, and as a parent, this responsibility falls to you.

X-rays: Are they safe?

There are few risks with dental X‐rays. We only take X‐rays when needed, and are especially careful to limit the amount of radiation to which children are exposed. Lead aprons and high‐speed film are used to ensure safety and minimize the amount of radiation.

Nursing: How can I prevent decay caused by nursing?

Avoid nursing children to sleep at bedtime, or putting anything in their bottle other than water. If it’s necessary to nurse at night, wash or wipe the teeth, gums and mouth prior to putting the child to bed.

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"Great staff. Very friendly. Dr. Tonya Rice was also great. It is very conveniently located in Circle C."

Anand P.

No Cavity Club

Kids of all ages can join our No Cavity Club and be eligible to win prizes throughout the year!

How can kids join?

Brush and floss daily
Come in for an appointment
Have No Cavities

Then have your picture on our No Cavity Club Photo Wall!

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