Dr. Scott L. Weinstein and our team receive many questions from both parents and children about various dental issues. We have developed this FAQ to provide you with important information about your child’s dental care. But please, never hesitate to ask any questions you may have.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children’s first dental visit be around their first birthday. Your child will receive a comprehensive oral exam and a risk evaluation for possible developing dental issues. Dr. Weinstein and our team will also provide you with information regarding proper oral hygiene and care and answer all your questions.
When you come into Ballantyne Pediatric Dentistry, the first thing you will notice is that this is the most fun dental office you have ever seen because it is designed for children (and we see the parents having fun too!) The first appointment is usually pretty short and sweet, but essential! First, we take the time to get to know you and your child in a relaxed and friendly environment. Dr. Weinstein will then perform an oral exam of your child’s teeth, gums, and jaw.
Depending on your child’s age, we will also clean your child’s teeth, take X-rays to identify any cavities or other issues and then apply a fluoride varnish.
When speaking to your child about going to the dentist, be careful not to make too much of their first visit. You should also refrain from using words that could cause unnecessary fear, such as “needle” or “drill.” Dr. Weinstein is highly trained in working with children who have anxiety and does everything possible to make their first visit a positive one!
Pediatric dentists are specialists in treating the unique needs of infants and children through adolescence and have completed an additional two to three years of specialty training beyond dental school. Pediatric dentists are also skilled at working with smaller equipment specific to children, and they look for early signs of decay, infection, speech problems, and cosmetic issues. Additionally, pediatric dentists focus more on education so that parents feel confident in helping with their child’s oral health.
While some may think, “they’re only baby teeth,” primary teeth are actually critical for children to learn how to speak and chew food. They are a guide for their permanent teeth.
When the first tooth appears, you should start brushing their teeth with a baby toothbrush to get them comfortable with a toothbrush. If they don’t react well to the toothbrush, you can use a damp washcloth to wipe their teeth and then try the toothbrush again at another time. You can also get them used to toothpaste by putting a pea-sized amount on their toothbrush. Don’t use too much toothpaste, because the fluoride may make a baby sick.
For toddlers and young children, you should help them brush and floss until they are old enough to do these tasks on their own.
At Ballantyne Pediatric Dentistry, we use white fillings on our patients. White fillings are mercury-free, and they match the natural color of teeth. Additionally, there is also less tooth structure removal when using white fillings, and they are less sensitive to hot and cold.
Although fluoride significantly reduces cavities, it has limited success in deeper parts of the tooth. Dental sealants are used as a safe, simple method to help your child avoid cavities, especially in molars. Sealants will effectively protect your child’s teeth for many years.
If your child breaks or chips a tooth, has a tooth knocked out, or a painful toothache, it is considered a dental emergency, and you should contact us immediately. If your child has profuse bleeding or you think they may have a more serious medical injury, please call 911 or take your child to the nearest emergency room.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children receive an orthodontic screening by the age of seven. Dr. Weinstein practices interceptive orthodontics to identify orthodontic problems early, such as crowding, spacing, or other misalignment issues.
Additionally, interceptive orthodontic treatment can help guide your child’s teeth and jaws into the correct positions as they develop. This will ensure that they can enjoy the proper oral function as well as a healthy smile that will boost confidence.
We know some children suffer from anxiety about going to the dentist and dental treatment. We offer several sedation methods that will allow your child to relax during treatment. Dr. Weinstein is an expert in sedation dentistry and holds a permit for moderate conscious sedation. He is also an evaluator for dental office sedation permitting for the North Carolina State Board of Dental Examiners, so your child is in good hands if they need sedation for dental treatments.
Dr. Scott L. Weinstein is a leading pediatric dentist in Charlotte, and the surrounding areas of Ballantyne, Waxhaw, and Fort Mill, North Carolina. To learn more about our practice, or to schedule an appointment, call our team today at 704-850-9251! With Dr. Weinstein and his team, your child will receive excellent care in a fun, comfortable, kid-friendly environment.
