Q: My child is very nervous about visiting the dentist. Is there anything you can do to help him relax?
A: Many people are uncomfortable with visiting the dentist. Your comfort is our highest priority, and our office is designed so that you can enjoy a relaxing dental visit. For entertainment and distraction, stereo headphones with music, video glasses for watching movies, and heated massage cushions are available so you can keep your mind on more pleasant things. Nitrous oxide is also offered to keep you comfortable and relaxed.
Q: I know X-rays are necessary, but I'd prefer not to have my child exposed to unnecessary radiation. Do you offer digital X-rays?
A: Yes, we do offer digital X-rays. Digital X-rays (radiographs) use less radiation and are safer for you than traditional film-based X-rays. You will find that Ridge Kids Dental researches the latest trends in technology to find the solutions that promote the overall health, safety, and comfort of all our patients.
Q: How does fluoride help my teeth?
A: Research shows that fluoride reduces cavities in both children and in adults by halting tooth decay. It also helps repair the early stages of tooth decay even before the decay becomes visible. Interestingly, many people continue to be misinformed about fluoride and fluoridation. Fluoride is a safe chemical component when used correctly. When Dr. Puckett or Dr. Richardson apply fluoride to your child's teeth, usually in the form of a fluoride varnish, gel, or foam, that fluoride is more concentrated than the fluoride contained in toothpaste or mouthwash. The ADA recommends that dental professionals use any of the professional strength fluoride varnish, gel, or foam products carrying the ADA Seal of Acceptance.
Q: What can I expect from my first appointment?
A: During your first appointment, your child's overall dental and oral health will be assessed with a comprehensive oral evaluation. Digital photos and X-rays will be taken of your child's teeth to identify areas of decay, cracked teeth, and malfunctioning restorations. Our goal is to preserve as much of your child's teeth as possible by catching decay in its earliest stages. We will also assess your gums and recommend the appropriate hygiene treatment.
Q: Do you accept new patient referrals?
A: Yes, we do accept referrals from other dental offices, as well as from recommendations by our patients to their families and friends.
Q: My child needs a lot of dental work, but I'm afraid I can't afford it. Do you offer monthly payment plans?
A: Yes, we do offer monthly payment plans with our financial partner, CareCredit�. We provide a variety of ways for you to pay for your treatment so it fits comfortably into your personal or family financial goals. The Ridge Kids Dental team will work with you to create the solution that best accommodates you so your child can have a beautiful, healthy smile.
Q: My child's gums bleed. Why is this?
A: Gums affected by one form of periodontal disease called gingivitis become red and inflamed, often bleeding during brushing or flossing. Timely treatment can reverse these conditions. However, if these conditions are ignored, gingivitis can worsen, becoming a condition called periodontitis. Periodontitis is much more difficult to treat.
Periodontitis affects the gums, bone, and teeth in a manner that cannot be reversed. If your child has periodontitis he or she may require more extensive, specialized treatment from a general dentist or even from a periodontist. If left untreated, periodontitis results in tooth loss ? teeth either fall out on their own or must be extracted.
Q: How do sealants protect teeth?
A: A sealant is a plastic material that is usually applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth - premolars and molars. This plastic resin bonds into the depressions and grooves (pits and fissures) of the chewing surfaces of back teeth. The sealant acts as a barrier, protecting enamel from plaque and acids and guarding against disease-causing bacteria. Thorough brushing and flossing help remove food particles and plaque from smooth surfaces of teeth. However, toothbrush bristles cannot reach all the way into the depressions and grooves to efficiently extract food and plaque. Sealants protect these vulnerable areas by "sealing out" plaque and food.