81 Billy Bishop Way
Unit D2 · North York
ON M3K 0C2

416-960-4422
81 Billy Bishop Way · Unit D2
North York· ON M3K 0C2

Frequently Asked Questions

General

What’s the difference between a general dentist and a pediatric dentist?

Pediatric dentists have 2-4 years of additional training. This training not only focuses on the emotional, and psychological development of children, but also includes intense clinical and pharmacologic training in the dental management of children.

Do I need a referral?

No, we are always happy to see new patients.

Why are baby teeth important?

They help your child to bite into food, to chew food to make it easier to swallow, in the development of speech, in maintaining the shape of the face, and in directing adult teeth where to grow.

When do baby teeth start to fall out?

The baby teeth start to fall out between 5-7 years of age, and they continue to do so till 12-13 years of age. The front teeth fall out first followed by the back teeth.

Prevention

When should I start brushing my child’s teeth?

It’s important to brush at least 2 times a day as soon as the teeth erupt into the mouth. We recommend using a toothbrush and safe to swallow tooth paste as soon as the first teeth erupt.

At what age should I start using fluoridate toothpaste for my child?

The Canadian Dental Association recommends using fluoride toothpaste when your child is 3 years old. Even if your child can’t spit well, you can safely use a pea sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste on their toothbrush. If we assess your child to be at a high risk for developing cavities, we may suggest you use a small amount of fluoridated toothpaste earlier than age 3.

Is it important to floss my child’s teeth?

Yes, if your child has teeth that touch anywhere, flossing twice a day is recommended. While brushing cleans around all the surfaces of the teeth, flossing is the only method to clean in between the teeth. Flossing keeps the gums healthy and prevents cavities from forming in between the teeth where we can’t see with the naked eye.

When can my child start flossing/brushing on his/her own?

As a rule of thumb, when your child has the manual dexterity to tie their shoes laces or cut food with a fork and a knife, they can floss/brush on their own. However, children may still need your help and supervision at this stage.

Are mouthwashes effective in preventing cavities?

Mouthwashes alone are not effective in cavity prevention. Fluoride mouthwashes that are alcohol free are only effective when used in combination with flossing and brushing.

Routine Check Ups

What do you do at the first visit?

We introduce your child to our fun and kid friendly space. We start with a conversation with you so that we can get to know you and your child. We discuss diet and hygiene practices and recommendations. We then give them a ride in our dental chair, and count their teeth. Depending on the age and comfort level of your child, we may try to do a dental cleaning. During the visit, your child can watch their favourite Netflix show or movie on the TV overhead. At the end of the visit, your little one will be rewarded with a prize!

What if my child is nervous and has trouble letting you look in his/her mouth?

It ok, this is all a normal part of what we deal with everyday. We will work hard to get to know you and your child because we really want them to feel comfortable with us. We know that every child is different so we will try our very best to figure out what will make your child’s experience with us a positive one. We want them to leave happy.

Is there anything I can do to prepare my child for their first visit?

Yes absolutely. You can start by telling them that they will be visiting the dentist to have their teeth counted for the first time. They will get to leave with a new toothbrush and will get to take a trip to our prize machine! Your child may enjoy reading a book with you to prepare them for their appointment. Some favorites of ours include: Peppa Pig Dentist Trip , The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist, and Curious George Visits the Dentist.

Can I stay with my child during the visit?

Yes absolutely, you are always welcome to stay with your child.

How often should we bring our child in for a check up and cleaning?

We recommend that most children be examined at least every 6 months.

How often do you recommend x-rays?

The frequency of x-rays depends on: the spacing of your child’s teeth, their oral hygiene and existing/pre-existing dental conditions.

Why are dental x-rays important when my child has tight teeth?

X-rays help in the early diagnosis and management of cavities that occur between the teeth when the teeth are close together. The early signs of these cavities are not visible when we look in your child’s mouth. Early diagnosis can make the difference between no treatment, small fillings, or crowns for larger cavities.

What do you do to minimize the radiation my child gets from dental x-rays?

We use digitized radiography, which emits up to 60% less radiation than standard x-rays. We also use lead aprons with thyroid collars to reduce exposure to the neck.

What types of products do your use in my child during a cleaning?

To help clean the plaque and stain off, we use a polishing paste that contains fluoride. We also do a topical fluoride application that helps strengthen the enamel. Enamel gets exposed to acid from foods and oral bacteria on a daily basis. The Canadian Dental Association supports the use of fluoride toothpaste in children older than three, as well as in office topical fluoride applications at least twice a year. We understand that some parents want to minimize fluoride exposure to their child. For that reason, we also have fluoride free and gluten free polishing paste.

Emergencies

What do I do if my child’s permanent tooth gets knocked out?

The faster you replant the knocked-out permanent tooth, the greater the chance you have of saving the tooth.

Do not re-implant a lost baby tooth!

Find the tooth and rinse it gently in cool water. Please do not clean the tooth with soap or scrub tooth.

If possible, replant the tooth in the socket immediately. Once you have placed the tooth in the socket, hold it there with a washcloth. During office hours, please call our office and we will arrange to see you right away.

If you are unable to replant the tooth, place the tooth in cold milk or saliva. During office hours, please call our office and will arrange to see you right away.

For after hours emergency care please see below.

After Hours Emergency
  • Call the Emergency Dental Clinic:
    1650 Yonge St
    Toronto ON M4T 2A2
    416-485-7121
  • Go to the Emergency Department at the Hospital for Sick Children:
    555 University Ave
    Toronto, ON M5G 1X8

 

We will be happy to follow up with your child on the next business day. Should any x-rays be taken of your child’s teeth, please bring them with you to your child’s next appointment.