Frequently Asked Questions
At Corvallis Kids Pediatric Dentistry, we value teaching our patients the importance of good oral health. If you have further questions or concerns regarding your dental situation, you can refer to our FAQ information below or contact our team. You can get started on your dental care journey today by scheduling an appointment with our dental office!
Pediatric Dentistry
Baby teeth play a crucial role in your child’s development, helping with speech, chewing, and forming a path for adult teeth to grow properly. Keeping baby teeth healthy also reduces the risk of infection and other dental issues as the child matures.
Most babies begin getting their first teeth between 6 to 8 months of age, though this can vary. The lower front teeth (central incisors) are usually the first to appear, followed by the upper front teeth.
Primary teeth, or baby teeth, are essential for proper eating, speaking, and maintaining space for permanent teeth. They also help develop good oral hygiene habits and contribute to overall health as the child grows.
To ease teething pain, try gently massaging your baby’s gums with a clean finger, or offer a chilled teething ring for relief. Over-the-counter pain relievers designed for infants can help, but always consult your pediatrician before using any medication
Thumb sucking is a common habit for infants and young children, but if it continues beyond the age of 4, it can lead to dental problems like misalignment of the teeth or bite issues. Encouraging your child to stop the habit as they grow can help prevent these potential complications.
Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is quite common in children. In most cases, childhood grinding resolves around the time the permanent teeth come in to the mouth. We will evaluate the need for any intervention at each exam.
A family dentist treats patients of all ages, providing general dental care for children, adults, and seniors. A pediatric dentist, however, specializes in the unique dental needs of children, offering more specialized care to address developmental concerns, teething, and early orthodontic needs.
Dental Hygiene
If your child has a visible cavity, schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience. The dentist will assess the severity of the cavity and discuss appropriate treatment recommendations.
A cavity is a hole or decay in a tooth caused by the breakdown of tooth enamel. Cavities develop when bacteria in the mouth feed on sugars from food, producing acids that gradually erode the enamel and create holes in the teeth.
To prevent cavities, encourage your child to brush their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and limit sugary snacks and drinks. Regular dental check-ups are also essential for early detection and professional cleaning.
Yes, cavities are common in children, especially as their teeth are still developing and they may not have mastered proper brushing and flossing. Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits can significantly reduce the risk of cavities.
If a cavity is left untreated, it can grow larger, potentially leading to more expensive or more invasive procedures. Untreated decay will also increase the child’s risk of getting new cavities in the future.
You should brush your teeth at least twice a day—morning and night—and floss once daily. This routine helps remove plaque and food particles, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Flossing is essential because it removes plaque and food debris from between your teeth and along the gumline, areas that a toothbrush can’t reach. Regular flossing helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.
Yes, a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for infants is safe for your baby’s teeth. Start by gently cleaning their gums with a soft cloth before teeth appear, and once teeth emerge, use a small, child-friendly toothbrush with a small smear of fluoride toothpaste.
It’s generally recommended to have a dental exam and cleaning every six months. However, your dentist may suggest more frequent visits depending on your child’s oral health needs, such as if you’re prone to cavities or gum disease.
First Visit
Your child should visit the dentist by their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth appears. Early visits help establish good dental habits and allow the dentist to monitor their oral development.
During your child’s first dental visit, the dentist will review their medical and dental history, perform a gentle examination of their teeth and gums, and provide advice on proper oral care. Depending on your child’s age and needs, our hygiene staff may perform and cleaning and take xrays of your child’s teeth.
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the grooves of the back teeth to prevent cavities. They act as a barrier, sealing off areas where food and bacteria can get trapped, making it easier to keep the teeth clean and preventing decay.
Yes, fluoride toothpaste is recommended for children to help strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. For children under 3, use a small smear of fluoride toothpaste, and for those over 3, a small smear of fluoride toothpaste.
Your name, Child’s name, contact information, insurance details, and the reason for your visit.
Yes! For your convenience, our facility is designed to accommodate siblings at the same time and in the same space.