Parent FAQs
Helpful answers about caring for your child's teeth, from their very first visit through their growing years.
What is the difference between a pediatric dentist and a family dentist?
Pediatric dentists are the pediatricians of dentistry. A pediatric dentist has two to three years specialty training following dental school and limits his/her practice to treating children only.
When should I first bring my child into the dentist?
An initial exam is recommended by your child's first tooth or first birthday. This first exam can give both the dentist and the parent an opportunity to review some fundamentals of pediatric dental growth and development, check for cavities, and review some important preventative measures.
What can I expect from the first visit?
This first visit gives your child an opportunity to meet the dentist in a non-threatening and friendly way. We will complete a visual examination of the gums and teeth, assess your child's behaviour and may request necessary x-rays.
How should I prepare my child for their first visit?
Children are often way cooler about going to see the dentist than their parents are. Try not to project any anxiety you might have onto your little one.
How often should I bring my child to the dentist?
A check-up every six months is generally recommended in order to prevent cavities, find cavities at their earliest stages, and catch other dental problems.
Do you accept assignment or direct billing?
We will bill your insurance company directly and collect the balance from you (if any) at the time of treatment.
Do you accept government social services insurance plans?
Yes, we accept social services including Alberta Child Health Benefits (ACHB) plans and First Nations Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB).
Why should we fix baby teeth if they are just going to fall out?
Your child will keep some of their primary or “baby” teeth until approximately 9 to 13 years old. Primary teeth are important for many reasons.
How often should I be brushing my child's teeth?
Teeth should be brushed at least twice a day, morning and before bed. The most important time to brush is just before the child goes to sleep for the night.
Toothpaste: When should we begin using it and how much should we use?
Starting at birth, clean your child's gums with a soft infant toothbrush or cloth and water. As soon as the teeth begin to appear, start brushing twice daily using fluoridated toothpaste.
Should I floss my child's teeth?
You should start flossing your children's teeth even when they only have their baby teeth. Children are prone to cavities between their teeth.
What is a good diet for healthy teeth?
Healthy eating habits lead to healthy teeth. Like the rest of the body, the teeth, bones and the soft tissues of the mouth need a well-balanced diet.
What is baby bottle tooth decay?
Baby Bottle Tooth Decay (BBTD) is a devastating form of tooth decay that can rapidly destroy a child's four upper front teeth and lower back teeth by the age of two or three.
How can I prevent baby bottle tooth decay?
START EARLY with good feeding habits. The bottle should only be used at mealtimes, not as a pacifier during the day or night.
Are my child's teeth coming in at the right time?
All 20 primary teeth usually appear by age 3, however the pace and order of their eruption varies.
Why does my child grind their teeth? Should I be worried?
The majority of cases of pediatric bruxism do not require any treatment. The good news is most children outgrow bruxism.
What are sealants?
A sealant is a clear or white acrylic resin material that is applied to the chewing surfaces (grooves) of the back teeth.
Open Evenings & Weekends
Still have questions? We're happy to help.
We're accepting new patients of all ages and welcome dental emergencies. Same-day appointments and direct insurance billing available.