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| What if my child has a dental emergency such as falling off his/her bike and injuring a tooth? Or, running into a coffee table? |
| First, evaluate for any additional trauma including the head, neck, and back. If there is additional trauma, call 911. Next, examine your child for signs of responsiveness such as orientation to person, place, and time. For example, does your child react when called by his/her name? If your child appears alert and orientated with no additional trauma, call the dental office to schedule a same day emergency visit. If your child experiences trauma after or before normal business hours, please follow the directions provided by calling the office at 586-585-2402. |
| Why choose a Pediatric Dentist? Isn't my Dentist qualified to see children? |
| A pediatric dentist has attended a pediatric dental residency for two years after receiving his/her dental degree (DDS or DMD). In this two additional years of training, the pediatric dentist has provided treatment to countless children. This advance degree trains the dentist in behavior management, guidance of dental development, treatment of dental space loss, special health care needs of children, and management of dental trauma to both the baby and permanent teeth. General dentists see child patients; however, general or family dentists have not received this advanced training. |
| When should I first take my child to the Dentist? |
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The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) suggests that
parents/guardians and other care providers establish a dental home for every
child by the age of 12 months. The AAPD recommends a "dental home" for
all infants, children, adolescents, and individuals with special health care
needs. This idea is based on the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
definition of a "medical home" which states that the best care is delivered
when it is provided by qualified child health specialists.
Comprehensive care that is accessible, coordinated, and compassionate is
found in a dental home.
12 months of age is to be used as a guide. If a parent/guardian has questions concerning dental development, trauma, or habits sooner than 12 months of age then it is appropriate to schedule a visit with your pediatric dentist. |
| If my child is so young when he/she has her first dental experience, what will it include? |
| The first dental visit at the age of 12 months will generally include a knee-to-knee exam with the pediatric dentist, Dr. Kerri Gustafson. She will examine the teeth that are present and look not only for areas of decay, but spots that could potentially result in a cavity. Dr. Kerri will check for normal dental development and discuss routine care for the baby teeth and gums. In addition, any parental concerns regarding diet and habits will be addressed. Lastly, remember that your child now has a "dental home" which you can turn to should the need arise for emergency care. |
| What is a knee-to-knee exam? |
| The dentist may examine a child's teeth in a knee-to-knee position with the parent's assistance if the child is very young or uncooperative. Dr. Kerri will sit facing the parent with the child in the parent's lap. The child's head is then placed in the dentist's lap while the parent holds the child's body. It is easy to examine the teeth and other oral structures in this position. |
| Why do we use digital radiography? |
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Traditionally, a film packet which consists of film, paper, and lead is
placed in a patient's mouth. The film is exposed via radiation from
the dental x-ray tube head. Next, chemicals are used to develop the
dental image or the film.
Digital radiographs require less x-ray exposure to the patient. For example, if comparing D speed dental film to a digital sensor, the exposure time is reduced from 0.5 seconds for film to 0.08 seconds for digital. Hence, there is an approximate 85% reduction in patient exposure to radiation. In addition to a reduction in radiation, digital radiographs do not produce waste products. Radiographs are transferred directly from the patient sensor to the computer. This eliminates the need for chemicals to develop the dental x-rays. And, there is no lead in the sensor, so there is no lead disposal issue. |
| What do I do when my child turns 18? |
| Watch the episode of Friends where Ross goes back to his pediatric dentist and use your best judgment.... Seriously, a general dentist can provide appropriate adult dental care. When the time comes, we will be happy to work with you to establish a relationship with a general dentist. |
