Why preventive care matters more for kids than for adults
Baby teeth have thinner enamel than adult teeth, so a small cavity can reach the nerve quickly. Children also can't always tell you when something hurts. A preventive visit every six months lets us catch problems while they are still small, cheap and painless to fix — or stop them from forming at all.
Our goal at every checkup is simple: keep your child out of the dental chair for anything other than cleanings.
What's included in a preventive visit at our Stonecrest office
- Exam of teeth, gums, bite and jaw growth
- Professional cleaning (prophylaxis) to remove plaque, stains and tartar
- Fluoride treatment to harden enamel against acid
- Digital x-rays when needed, with up to 90% less radiation than film
- Brushing, flossing and diet coaching for parents and kids
Fluoride treatments
Fluoride strengthens enamel and makes it more resistant to the acid that causes cavities. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends professionally applied fluoride as a safe, effective way to reduce decay. We match the treatment to your child's age and cavity risk.
Dental sealants
Most childhood cavities start in the deep pits and grooves on the chewing surfaces of back teeth, where toothbrush bristles can't reach. A sealant is a thin protective coating painted into those grooves. It takes minutes, needs no drilling and no numbing. We place sealants when the first permanent molars come in (around age 6) and again for the second molars (around age 12).
Space maintainers
When a baby tooth is lost early to decay or injury, the teeth beside it can drift into the gap and block the adult tooth from coming in straight. A space maintainer holds that space open so your child's permanent teeth erupt where they should — often preventing orthodontic problems later.
Silver Diamine Fluoride for early cavities
If we find a cavity in a very young or anxious child, Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) can often stop it from growing without drilling. It's painted on in minutes. SDF darkens the decayed area, and some teeth may still need a filling or crown later for appearance or function.
What to expect at your visit
- 01We verify your insuranceOur insurance specialist checks your PPO benefits before the visit, so you know your costs up front.
- 02Exam and cleaningA gentle exam, cleaning and polish, with x-rays only when they're needed.
- 03Fluoride and sealantsProtective treatments based on your child's age and cavity risk.
- 04A plan you can follow at homeSimple brushing, flossing and snack tips — and your next six-month visit booked.
Why parents choose our preventive pediatric dentist in Stonecrest
- Insurance checked before you arriveWe accept all major PPO plans and verify your benefits in advance, so you know your cost up front. No hidden fees.
- 7 AM appointmentsEarly visits Monday–Friday, plus Saturdays by appointment — easier to fit around school and work.
- Sedation options onsiteLaughing gas, oral sedation and general anesthesia (onsite or hospital) for anxious or young children.
- Everything under one roofCheckups, fillings, crowns, nerve treatment, early orthodontics and emergencies at one Stonecrest office.
- Low-radiation digital x-raysUp to 90% less radiation than film, taken only when they're needed.
- Special needs experienceTraining beyond dental school in caring for children with special healthcare needs.
Preventive Dental Care in Stonecrest: questions parents ask
How often should my child see a preventive pediatric dentist?
Every six months for most children. Kids with a higher cavity risk may need visits every three to four months — we'll tell you after the first exam.
When should my child have their first dental visit?
By their first birthday, or within six months of the first tooth appearing. That is the recommendation of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
Are dental sealants worth it?
Yes for most children. Sealants protect the chewing surfaces of back teeth, where most childhood cavities start. They are quick, painless and need no drilling.
Is fluoride safe for children?
Professionally applied fluoride is safe and effective, and it is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. We use the amount appropriate for your child's age.
Does insurance cover preventive dental care?
Preventive visits — exams, cleanings, fluoride and often sealants — are usually the best-covered services in a PPO plan. Exact coverage depends on your plan, so we check it for you before the visit.
Reviewed by Dr. Debbie Granger· Last updated
