Question 1

When should my child first visit a dentist?

Accepted Answer

The Indian Academy of Paediatric Dentistry and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry both recommend the first dental visit by your child's first birthday — or within 6 months of their first tooth appearing (whichever comes first). Early visits help us catch problems early, give you guidance on feeding and hygiene, and help your child get comfortable with the dentist long before any treatment is needed.

Question 2

What if my child is scared of the dentist?

Accepted Answer

This is one of the most common concerns we hear — and it's something we specialise in. Dr. Sheena uses a 'Tell-Show-Do' approach: we tell your child what's happening in simple words, show them all the tools without touching, and only then proceed gently. Many anxious children become completely at ease within 1–2 visits. We never rush or force. Your child sets the pace.

Question 3

Are baby teeth really important? They'll fall out anyway.

Accepted Answer

Absolutely — baby teeth are critical! They help your child chew food properly for nutrition, guide the development of permanent teeth, hold space for adult teeth, support speech development, and affect your child's confidence and smile. Infected or early-lost baby teeth can cause misalignment of permanent teeth and significant pain. Please don't wait until they fall out naturally if there's a problem.

Question 4

What should I do if my child has sudden tooth pain?

Accepted Answer

First, check if there's visible swelling around the jaw or face — if yes, this may be urgent and you should contact us or visit a dental emergency centre immediately. For tooth pain alone: rinse with warm water, gently floss to remove trapped food, and give age-appropriate painkiller (never aspirin). Then call us to book an appointment as soon as possible. Don't ignore it — tooth infections can spread quickly in children.

Question 5

What should I do if my child chips or knocks out a tooth?

Accepted Answer

For a knocked-out permanent tooth: find the tooth, hold it by the crown (not the root), gently rinse — don't scrub — and try to place it back in the socket. If that's not possible, keep it in milk or saline and get to us within 30 minutes. For a chipped tooth: collect any pieces, rinse the mouth with water, and call us immediately. For baby teeth, don't try to re-implant — just get to us quickly. Time matters!

Question 6

How often should children get dental check-ups?

Accepted Answer

Every 6 months is the standard recommendation for most children. However, children with higher cavity risk (frequent sweet consumption, dry mouth, special needs) may benefit from more frequent visits — every 3–4 months. Dr. Sheena will advise you on the best schedule for your child.

Question 7

Are dental X-rays safe for my child?

Accepted Answer

Yes — modern dental X-rays use very low radiation levels, and we use digital X-ray technology which reduces radiation by up to 90% compared to traditional film X-rays. We also use lead aprons as added protection. X-rays help us detect cavities between teeth, check jaw development, and monitor incoming permanent teeth — all things that can't be seen by the naked eye. We only recommend X-rays when clinically necessary.

Question 8

What is fluoride treatment and is it safe?

Accepted Answer

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities. The fluoride treatment we provide at the clinic is a professional-grade varnish or gel applied directly to the teeth — it's quick, painless, and very effective. The doses used in professional treatments are safe and evidence-based. Dr. Sheena will advise on appropriate fluoride intake and products for home use as well.

Question 9

What are dental sealants and does my child need them?

Accepted Answer

Dental sealants are thin, protective plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth (molars), which have deep grooves where bacteria and food love to hide. Sealants act like a shield — preventing up to 80% of cavities in back teeth. They're pain-free, take just a few minutes, and are highly recommended when permanent molars come in (around ages 6 and 12).

Question 10

What is a baby root canal? Is it scary?

Accepted Answer

We know it sounds worrying — but a baby root canal (technically called 'pulp therapy') is much simpler and less invasive than an adult root canal. When a cavity reaches the inner nerve of a baby tooth, we remove only the affected part of the pulp, place a medicated filling, and cap the tooth with a crown. The goal is to save the baby tooth so it can naturally guide the permanent tooth into place. With modern numbing techniques, your child will feel very little.

Question 11

Is sedation dentistry safe for children?

Accepted Answer

Yes — when performed by a trained specialist like Dr. Sheena, sedation is very safe. We offer three levels: nitrous oxide (laughing gas) as the gentlest option — it works quickly, wears off within minutes, and has an excellent safety record; conscious oral sedation for children who need more support; and treatment under general anaesthesia (GA) in a hospital setting for extensive cases. Dr. Sheena will assess your child thoroughly and recommend the most appropriate, safest approach.

Question 12

What is nitrous oxide and is it safe for children?

Accepted Answer

Nitrous oxide — commonly called laughing gas — is a mild sedative gas that your child breathes through a small, comfortable mask placed over their nose. It creates a feeling of calm relaxation within minutes, reduces anxiety and sensitivity, and makes the dental experience much more comfortable. It is completely safe: it has been used in dentistry for over 100 years, it does not put your child to sleep (they stay awake and responsive), and it wears off entirely within a few minutes of removing the mask. Your child can eat, go to school, and continue their day completely normally afterwards.

Question 13

Can children get Invisalign?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Invisalign offers a range of products specifically designed for teenagers and older children. The clear aligners are virtually invisible, removable for eating and brushing, and much more comfortable than traditional metal braces. Dr. Sheena will assess your child's teeth, jaw development, and age to advise whether Invisalign, traditional braces, or interceptive orthodontic appliances are the right choice. Early orthodontic assessment (around age 7) can often prevent more complex treatment later.

Question 14

Do you treat children with special needs?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely and wholeheartedly yes. We welcome children with autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, intellectual disabilities, sensory processing challenges, and other special needs. Our team is trained in behaviour management techniques, and we will always take the time to understand your child's specific needs before beginning any treatment. We will never rush or force. Every child deserves great dental care.

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