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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is Pediatric Dentistry?
A pediatric dentist is a specialist dedicated to the oral health of infants,
children, adolescents and patients with special health care needs. Pediatric
dentists complete two or three years of additional specialized training
(after the required four years of dental school), which includes study
in child psychology, growth, and development. They are also trained and
qualified to care for patients with medical, physical, or mental disabilities.
Their specialization allows them to provide treatment for a wide variety
of children's dental problems such as tooth decay and cavities, malocclusion
and crooked teeth, and emergency care. Pediatric Dentistry
of Concord and Marlboro treats children from infancy through
adolescence. <<
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At what age should my child visit the dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that a child's first
visit to the dentist should occur by 12 months of age. This visit will enable
the dentist to evaluate your child and introduce you to proper oral hygiene.
Diet, fluoride, finger and pacifier habits and tooth eruption will be discussed
to insure optimal dental health. << return to top of
page
Tips for helping children develop positive dental habits.
. Set a good example
. Make good oral health a family effort
. Show children that daily brushing and flossing, limited snacking and regular
dental checkups are necessary for good oral health
. Support your child when they are able to brush and floss on their own- assisting
and performing spot checks as needed << return to top of
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How important is a child's diet in the prevention
of cavities?
Although a well-balanced diet is important in preventing cavities and to ensure
good general health, cavities are not only the result of what children eat
but also the frequency of meals. Frequent snacking without brushing leaves
food on the teeth longer and increases the likelihood of a cavity developing.
Additionally, frequent "sipping" on sugar-drinks (including juice and soda)
in a baby bottle, "sippy" cup, or re-sealable bottle can cause widespread dental
cavities. << return to top of page
Why are "baby teeth" important?
Primary teeth have been labeled "baby teeth." However,
the first tooth is usually lost around age 6 and some primary molars
must remain in place until 12 or 13 years of age. Primary teeth
are necessary for proper chewing, speech, development of the jaws
and esthetics. Care of the primary teeth is important not only
for proper function, but also to avoid a number of unpleasant conditions,
such as pain, that result from their neglect. << return
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What do I do if my child is in an accident?
If your child has an accident, please call our office
as soon as possible. If it
is an after-hours emergency, a pager number will be given on the
answering machine. The pager number is 978-545-5122. Call the pager number and leave a short message being sure to give your phone number slowly and clearly and the doctor on call will contact you right away.<< return to top
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