Frequently Asked Questions
When it comes to your child’s dental care, we’re sure you have plenty of questions, and our team is more than happy to answer them! Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most popular questions our team receives every day. If you happen to have a question that hasn’t been covered here, no worries, just give us a call and ask! We’re always happy to talk to you and make sure you have all the information you need to take care of your child’s smile.
When should I schedule my child’s first dental visit?
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, you should schedule your child’s first dental appointment as soon as their first tooth appears and no later than his/her first birthday.
How often should my child be going to the dentist?
We recommend that your child should visit the dentist at least twice a year for a checkup and cleaning to prevent common issues like cavities and gum disease. However, if your child is currently undergoing orthodontic treatment, you’ll be asked to bring them in every few weeks for a progress check to make sure everything is staying on track.
When should my child see an orthodontists for the first time?
Your child should have a complete orthodontic evaluation around the time they are seven years old. However, if you notice that your child has crooked or crowded teeth and/or a misaligned bite before this age, you should go ahead and schedule an orthodontic appointment. Early-intervention is the best way to keep treatment quick, easy, and simple.
Will my child need to wear a retainer after having braces?
Yes. Retainers help the newly shifted teeth stay in place right after treatment, as they naturally would start to move back to their original positions once the braces have come off. In most cases, your child will start by wearing the retainer 24 hours a day, and they’ll gradually be able to wear it less as time goes by.
I think my child might have a cavity. What should I do?
If your child has a noticeable dark spot on one of their teeth, or if they are complaining of a toothache, the best thing to do is go ahead and give our office a call. The sooner we’re able to treat a cavity, the easier it will be!
As an adult, do I have to get metal braces to straighten my teeth?
No you don’t! For our older patients, Invisalign is a cosmetically-friendly option that uses clear plastic aligner trays to move the teeth instead of metal brackets and wires. The aligners are so discreet that no one will notice you’re wearing one unless you tell them! And, you can simply take the aligners off whenever you want to eat or brush, helping Invisalign slip seamlessly into any lifestyle.
Will you accept my dental insurance?
Yes, our practice is happy to accept all dental insurance plans regardless of provider, including MassHealth. We’ll help you better understand your benefits and even file the claim on your behalf so we can make sure you’re getting the most out of your coverage. To learn how we can use your specific plan to help you save, contact us today.
I don’t have insurance. Can I finance my child’s dental care?
Yes, and you can actually sign up for a low-to-no interest payment plan right through our website. We work with CareCredit, a third-party financier that has already helped millions of families around the country afford their dental care. To see their different plans and choose one that works for you, click on the link on our For Patients page.