Dental care faqs
Q1. When should a child have his or her first visit to the dentist?
A. According to The Canadian Dental Association, a child should visit the dentist six months after his or her first tooth develops, or by the age of one. A checkup every six months can catch small problems before they become serious, and will ensure a child’s oral health is in good condition.
Q2. For a child, how much fluoride is too much?
A. Fluoride that makes the teeth stronger and therefore less prone to cavities can be found in tap water and toothpaste. For children under the age of six, it is recommended that they only use a small amount of toothpaste and are supervised during each brushing. If an excessive amount of fluoride is swallowed, it may result in dental fluorosis (white specks on the teeth).
Q3. Are x-rays necessary at every visit?
A. An adult with strong teeth and a relatively healthy past will probably not need an X-ray each time they visit the dentist. Frequent X-rays are necessary when your oral health is unstable and the dentist wants to assess your progress. Contrary to popular belief, X-rays deliver very little radiation and are useful in discovering small problems before they get bigger.
Q4. What does dental insurance cover?
A. It varies depending on your insurance plan, but most plans should cover your routine checkups, cleanings, and X-rays. Cosmetic treatments like whitening or veneers are usually not covered by insurance.
Q5. What can you do at home to maintain good oral hygiene?
A. Besides brushing your teeth and tongue twice a day, flossing also plays a big role in oral hygiene. Flossing once a day helps eliminate bacteria that cannot be removed with your regular toothbrush. It is also very important to stay away from foods and drinks that have high sugar content, as this is often associated with various dental problems.