FAQ
Pediatric Dentistry
When should my child have their first dental visit?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling the first visit by age one or when the first tooth appears.
How can I prepare my child for their first dental appointment?
Talk positively about the dentist and read books about dental visits to make the experience feel familiar and fun.
How often should children see the dentist?
Every six months, or as recommended by your dentist, to maintain good oral health.
Are baby teeth really that important?
Yes! Healthy baby teeth are essential for chewing, speaking, and guiding permanent teeth into place.
What if my child is scared of the dentist?
Our team is trained to make every visit stress-free, using kid-friendly language, gentle techniques, and sedation options if needed.
Does my child need fluoride treatments?
Fluoride helps strengthen enamel and prevent cavities. It’s a safe and effective part of preventive care.
What should I do if my child has a dental emergency?
Call us right away. We offer same-day emergency appointments to address urgent dental issues.
Does Kidz Shine Dental accept Denti-Cal?
Yes! We proudly accept Denti-Cal and most major insurance plans.
What sedation options are available for kids?
We offer laughing gas, oral sedation, and general anesthesia to keep your child comfortable.
How can I prevent cavities in my child’s teeth?
Encourage regular brushing and flossing, limit sugary snacks, and schedule regular dental checkups.
Complete Checkups
When should my child have their first dental checkup?
Your child should visit the dentist by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears.
How long does a children’s dental checkup take?
A typical checkup lasts 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your child’s age and specific needs.
Do dental checkups for kids hurt?
No, our team uses gentle techniques to ensure your child’s visit is comfortable and pain-free
Are X-rays safe for children?
Yes, our digital X-rays use minimal radiation and are completely safe for kids.
How often should fluoride treatments be done?
Fluoride treatments are usually recommended every six months during regular checkups.
What are dental sealants, and does my child need them?
Sealants are a thin protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of molars to prevent cavities. We recommend them for most school-age kids.
What happens if my child has a cavity?
If we detect a cavity, we’ll recommend a gentle filling using tooth-colored material to restore the tooth.
How do I prepare my child for their first dental visit?
Talk positively about the dentist and bring along their favorite toy or comfort item to help them feel at ease.
Does Kidz Shine Dental accept Denti-Cal for checkups?
Yes, we proudly accept Denti-Cal and most major insurance plans.
What should I do if my child is anxious about dental visits?
We offer a fun, kid-friendly environment, comforting amenities, and sedation options to help ease anxiety.
Fillings & Crowns
Are fillings for baby teeth really necessary?
Yes! Treating cavities in baby teeth prevents pain, infection, and early tooth loss, which can affect speech and alignment.
How long do white fillings last?
With proper care, white fillings can last for several years, protecting your child’s teeth from further decay.
Are stainless steel crowns safe for kids?
Absolutely. Stainless steel crowns are a safe, durable option commonly used for primary teeth.
Does the procedure hurt?
No, we use local anesthesia and offer sedation options to ensure a pain-free experience.
How can I help my child avoid cavities?
Encourage daily brushing and flossing, limit sugary snacks, and schedule regular dental checkups.
How do I know if my child needs a filling?
Signs include tooth sensitivity, pain, dark spots, or visible holes. If you notice these, contact us for an evaluation.
How long do stainless steel crowns last?
They are designed to last until the baby tooth naturally falls out, typically between ages 10 and 12.
Does Kidz Shine Dental accept insurance for fillings and crowns?
Yes, we accept most major insurance plans, including Denti-Cal. Contact us to verify your coverage.
What should I do if my child’s crown comes loose?
Call us right away. We’ll schedule a prompt visit to reattach or replace the crown.
Space Maintainers
How do space maintainers relate to orthodontic care?
Space maintainers are a form of early orthodontic treatment that helps guide teeth into proper alignment, potentially reducing the need for braces in the future.
How long does my child need to wear a space maintainer?
It varies depending on when the permanent tooth is expected to erupt. We’ll monitor your child’s progress during regular checkups.
Are space maintainers uncomfortable for kids?
No, space maintainers are custom-made for a comfortable fit. Most kids adjust to them quickly.
What happens if a space maintainer comes loose?
Contact us immediately. We’ll schedule a prompt visit to fix or replace the appliance.
Are removable or fixed space maintainers better?
Both have their benefits. Fixed maintainers are more reliable for younger children, while removable ones are better suited for older kids who can manage them responsibly.
How should I care for my child’s space maintainer?
Regular brushing and flossing are essential. For removable maintainers, clean them as instructed by our dental team.
Does my child need a space maintainer after losing a tooth naturally?
No, space maintainers are typically needed when a baby tooth is lost prematurely and the surrounding teeth are at risk of shifting.
Is getting a space maintainer painful for my child?
No, placing a space maintainer is a simple, pain-free procedure.
Does Kidz Shine Dental accept insurance for space maintainers?
Yes, we accept most major insurance plans, including Denti-Cal. Contact us to verify your coverage.
Children’s Sedation Dentistry
Is sedation dentistry safe for children?
Yes, sedation dentistry is safe when administered by trained professionals. We use the latest techniques and carefully monitor your child throughout the procedure.
Will my child be asleep during sedation?
It depends on the type of sedation. Laughing gas and oral sedation keep your child awake but relaxed, while general anesthesia puts them to sleep for the duration of the procedure.
How long does it take for sedation to wear off?
Laughing gas wears off quickly, usually within a few minutes. Oral sedation and general anesthesia may take a few hours for full recovery.
How should I prepare my child for sedation?
Follow our pre-sedation instructions, including any fasting requirements. Bring your child’s favorite comfort item, and arrive early to help them feel relaxed.
Can sedation be used for routine cleanings?
In most cases, sedation isn’t necessary for routine cleanings, but it may be recommended for children with extreme anxiety or special needs.
What should I expect after my child’s appointment?
Depending on the type of sedation used, your child may feel drowsy or disoriented for a short time. We’ll provide detailed post-sedation care instructions.
Are there any risks associated with sedation dentistry?
Sedation is generally safe, but as with any medical procedure, there are minimal risks. Our team will review your child’s medical history to ensure the safest approach.
How do I know if my child needs sedation?
If your child has significant dental anxiety, trouble sitting still, or requires extensive dental work, sedation may be beneficial. We’ll discuss the best options during your consultation.
Does insurance cover sedation dentistry?
Many insurance plans, including Denti-Cal, cover sedation for medically necessary procedures. Contact us, and we’ll help you verify your coverage.
How soon can my child return to normal activities after sedation?
For laughing gas, your child can usually resume normal activities immediately. For oral sedation or general anesthesia, it may take a few hours for full recovery.
Children’s Emergency Care
What qualifies as a dental emergency?
A dental emergency includes any sudden pain, injury, or damage to your child’s teeth or gums that requires immediate attention.
What should I do if my child’s tooth is knocked out?
Gently rinse the tooth with water, place it in a container of milk, and contact us right away. Time is critical in saving the tooth.
Is dental sedation safe for emergency procedures?
Yes, dental sedation is safe when administered by trained professionals. We’ll recommend the best option based on your child’s needs.
How do I know if my child has a dental abscess?
Signs of an abscess include swelling, severe pain, and a pimple-like bump on the gums. Contact us immediately if you notice these symptoms.
Does Kidz Shine Dental offer after-hours emergency care?
We provide same-day emergency services during our regular hours. For after-hours emergencies, call us, and we’ll advise you on the next steps.
Will insurance cover my child’s emergency dental visit?
Most insurance plans, including Denti-Cal, cover emergency dental care. Contact us, and we’ll help verify your coverage.
How can I prevent sports-related dental injuries?
We recommend using a custom mouthguard during sports activities to protect your child’s teeth from impact.
What if my child is too scared to get treatment?
Our team specializes in calming anxious children. We also offer sedation options to ensure a stress-free experience.