FREQUENTLY ASKED DENTAL QUESTIONS – PLEASANTON, CA

Your Dental Questions Answered

When it comes to choosing a pediatric dentist for your child, we know that skill, service, and a friendly demeanor make a difference. We also know that finding a professional who will answer questions and provide transparency is equally important. This is why you will find answers to some of our most frequently asked questions below. We don’t shy away from patients’ inquiries but instead, deliver honest explanations that will help you to make the right decision about your child’s oral health.

Are Six-Month Dental Checkups and Teeth Cleanings Necessary?

Yes, you will need to bring your child in for a dental checkup and teeth cleaning every six months. This is crucial, especially during these early years, as cavities and dental decay are prone to forming. Novice oral hygiene habits and too many fruit juices can lead to serious oral health problems if left undetected. By bringing them in twice each year, we can make sure their smile remains on the right track in between appointments.

Can I Bring My Child Who Has Special Needs?

At Main Street Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, we are pleased to provide special accommodations for children with intellectual and physical disabilities. No matter the issue, our team is equipped to handle the situation. With advanced training and experience, we will not only ensure a more comfortable and secure environment but also deliver effective treatment that is designed to improve smiles of all types, even those plagued by missing teeth, delayed tooth eruption, or serious trauma.

Are There Sedation Options Available for Children?

While many pediatric dental offices do not offer sedation dentistry, we do! Between nitrous oxide, IV sedation, and general anesthesia, we can help keep your little one calm and relaxed during their visit. Based on their oral and overall health, we will recommend which option is best for your child’s needs so that they do not experience the anxiety and fear that many patients face when preparing to visit the dentist’s office.

My Child Is Dealing with a Dental Emergency, What Should We Do?

You might be tempted to go into panic mode, but the best thing you can do is remain calm, as this will help your child to do the same. First, make sure to call our office and let us know about the situation. Offering 24-hour same-day emergency care, we will get them in as quickly as possible. In the meantime, you are welcome to use the first-aid tips that we will provide to avoid further harm to your child’s smile. Depending on the type of injury, you may be able to give your child some type of pain reliever to help manage the pain until it’s time to visit the dentist.

Are There Ways to Lower the Potential for Tooth Decay?

Yes, you can help your child lower their risk of cavities by:

  • Making sure they continue to see a member of our team every six months for a dental checkup and teeth cleaning.
  • Continuing to observe their oral hygiene habits at home. If they are not old enough to brush and floss on their own, offer your help so that a thorough cleaning is completed.
  • Keeping healthy foods in the house and not letting them indulge in those that contain lots of sugar or starch.
  • Reminding them to stop biting their fingernails and not let them eat ice.
  • Letting our team fabricate a custom sportsguard and/or nightguard for optimal mouth protection.

Is My Dental Insurance Welcome?

Yes, we are pleased to be in-network with a variety of dental insurance companies. We will work to maximize your benefits and help you save so that you don’t lose valuable funds at the end of the year. Should your child need extensive treatment that will cause you to go over your annual maximum, we’ll also work to spread out care (if possible) so that your expenses remain low.