Parent FAQs
Everything you need to know about bringing your child to the dentist — from their first visit to everyday oral health habits.
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 of specialty training following dental school and limits their practice to treating children only. A family dentist, like our team, provides gentle, experienced care for patients of all ages.
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 early visit lets us review fundamentals of pediatric dental growth, check for cavities, and establish preventative measures.
What can I expect from the first visit?
The first visit gives your child an opportunity to meet the dentist in a non-threatening, friendly way. The appointment includes a visual examination and may involve x-rays, kept brief and enjoyable for the child.
How should I prepare my child for their first visit?
Avoid projecting parental anxiety onto your child. Be honest and positive about the visit, keeping it simple and straightforward. Framing it as an exciting adventure helps set the right tone.
How often should I bring my child to the dentist?
A check-up every six months is generally recommended to prevent cavities and catch dental problems early. Frequency may vary depending on your child's individual oral health.
Do you accept assignment or direct billing?
Yes. We bill your insurance company directly and collect the balance from you (if any) at the time of treatment — no paperwork on your end.
Do you accept government social services insurance plans?
Yes. We accept Alberta Child Health Benefits (ACHB) and First Nations Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) plans.
Why should we fix baby teeth if they are just going to fall out?
Children retain their primary teeth until ages 9–13. These teeth aid speech, natural chewing, and guide permanent teeth into position. Untreated cavities cause pain and infection that can affect developing adult teeth.
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, as saliva flow decreases overnight.
Toothpaste: when should we begin using it and how much?
Start cleaning gums at birth with a soft brush. Use a 'smear' for children under 2 years and a 'pea-size' amount for ages 2–5. Always choose a Canadian Dental Association-approved fluoride toothpaste.
Should I floss my child's teeth?
Start flossing when baby teeth appear and fit closely together (typically ages 2–6). Children usually develop the ability to floss on their own around age 10.
What is a good diet for healthy teeth?
Provide well-balanced nutrition from the five major food groups. Limit frequent snacking and avoid hard candy, sticky foods, and breath mints that prolong acid exposure to teeth.
What is baby bottle tooth decay?
Baby Bottle Tooth Decay (BBTD) is a form of tooth decay that can rapidly destroy a child's upper front teeth and lower back teeth, sometimes as early as age two or three.
How can I prevent baby bottle tooth decay?
Use bottles only at mealtimes and never fill them with sweetened drinks. Discontinue nighttime bottle use promptly, or gradually dilute the contents with water over time.
Are my child's teeth coming in at the right time?
All 20 primary teeth usually appear by age 3, with first teeth typically erupting around 6 months. Permanent teeth begin appearing around age 6. Small variations are normal — ask us at your next visit.
Why does my child grind their teeth? Should I be worried?
Pediatric bruxism (teeth grinding) typically requires no treatment. Most children outgrow it. Grinding usually decreases between ages 6–9 and stops by ages 9–12.
What are sealants?
A sealant is a clear or white acrylic resin applied to the chewing surfaces (grooves) of the back teeth, protecting these decay-prone areas effectively and painlessly.
Still have questions?
Our team is always happy to chat — give us a call or book your child’s appointment online.
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