frequently asked questions
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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs About Pediatric Dentistry

At Central Park Pediatric Dentistry in Austin, Texas, we enjoy working with your kids and helping them learn to have a positive experience at the dentist. When you visit us, one of our goals is to make sure your child feels comfortable while you feel confident and knowledgeable about their care. If both you and your kids are familiar with what happens at the dentist, it can prevent any dental anxiety and help make their experience with us go smoothly. Check out our frequently asked questions about pediatric dentistry below.

Is a pediatric dentist different from a general dentist?

Dr. Johnson and Dr. Parker are specially trained to provide the best dental care possible for children, undergoing additional years of education to understand the unique and complex needs of children. Unlike a general dentist, our dentists’ care is catered specifically to the dental needs of kids.

Yes! Keeping your infant or toddler’s mouth clean is important. This prevents cavities and other issues from developing. Having a healthy mouth is important for your young one’s overall health.

We recommend only using a rice-sized amount of toothpaste for your infant. Use a soft infant toothbrush to brush any of their teeth that have erupted. Once your child is three to six years old, you can use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. Make sure to brush your child’s teeth for two minutes twice a day, and when they are old enough to start brushing their own teeth, supervise them to make sure they are doing it correctly!

Yes, sedation dentistry is safe when done by experienced and licensed dentists like Dr. Johnson and Dr. Parker. If your child is especially anxious, too young to sit still or has a disability, sedation dentistry can help make your child more comfortable during dental treatment. There is only a small risk, and potential side effects include drowsiness or nausea. If you believe your child may be a good candidate for sedation dentistry, our dentists and teams will discuss this decision with you and make sure it is the best-fit option for your child’s needs and care.

Yes, baby teeth are important! They help make sure your child can chew and eat well and even talk correctly when they begin to speak. Baby teeth also actually help provide the correct spaces and positions for when your child’s adult teeth begin to come in.

Yes, X-rays are safe! We use digital X-rays, and studies have also found that digital X-rays emit up to 90% less radiation than conventional X-rays! They are especially important for your child’s dental health because they show cavities and other issues.

Yes. Eating a well-balanced diet can help protect your child’s dental health and keep their teeth and mouth healthy. Eating a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and dairy is the best option for your child’s dental health, while diets high in sugar and sugary snacks can lead to cavities.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends you bring your child in for their first appointment either by their first birthday or after their first tooth emerges. We realize this sounds early, but we believe setting those healthy oral habits early in life leads to a lifetime of healthy, strong teeth!

Request An Appointment

If our frequently asked questions have not answered or addressed your concerns, we welcome you to ask any questions at your child’s next appointment with us. To request an appointment, fill out our online form. We will get back to you as soon as possible with a convenient appointment time. We look forward to seeing you and your child in one of our offices in Austin, Texas!

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Growing Little Smiles

Your Child’s Dental Home In Austin, TX

At Central Park Pediatric Dentistry, we take pride in delivering a unique pediatric dental experience that truly sets us apart. Our engaging and friendly approach ensures that each visit is enjoyable for kids, helping them feel comfortable while emphasizing the importance of good oral health. As a family-owned practice, we appreciate the need for convenience and offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate your busy life.

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Caring & Compassionate Pediatric Dental Services

1005 W 38th St., Suite 200, Austin, TX 78705 | (512) 330-4624

4308 N Quinlan Park Rd., Suite 201, Austin, TX 78732 | (512) 586-1339

13341 W US 290, Building 1-106, Austin, TX 78737 | (512) 953-1188