FAQs

Q: When should I first bring my child to the dentist?
A: Both the American Academy of Pediatrics and The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry now recommend that babies have their first dental visit by their first birthday.  Early dental visits focused on prevention can help your child have a cavity free smile.

Q: Can my baby “catch” my cavities?
A: Yes.  Cavities develop due to certain bacteria that are found in most peoples’ mouths.  Researchers believe babies are born without these cavity-causing bacteria but can “catch” them from their parents or less commonly other caregivers, siblings or peers in the first couple years of life.  You can help protect your child by not cleaning your baby’s pacifier with your saliva and not sharing utensils or drinking liquid out of the same cup.   Visiting a dentist and improving your own oral health can also help protect your baby’s teeth. The healthier your mouth is the fewer bad bacteria you will have to give to your child.

Q: Should I go to the dentist while I am pregnant? 
A: Yes, for you and your baby it is important that you get your mouth as healthy as you can.

Q: Is having dental work done while I am pregnant safe for the baby?
A: Yes, dentistry is safe. Everything we do, including x-rays is safe. It will not hurt your baby.  In fact, untreated oral disease in pregnant women has been linked to pre-term births and is extreme cases still birth.

Q: What are sealants?
A: Sealants can help protect the grooves of back teeth where many cavities are found.  They are a plastic material that is painlessly applied to the biting surfaces of teeth.  Combined with good brushing and flossing, research shows they can help keep your child’s teeth protected from cavities.

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