Children's
Dentistry FAQ
 We are happy that you have chosen us for your child's
dental care. Here are some questions and answers most often asked
by parents. Additionally, we will be happy to answer any individual
questions you may have by e-mail
or calling our office.
How may I best prepare my child if this is
his/her first visit and what is the procedure at this visit?
You can play a large part in preparing your
youngster for his/her first visit to our office. Try to act relaxed
and at ease. Any anxiety on your part will probably be sensed by
your child. Tell your child that we will "count" and "take pictures" of his/her
teeth. Do not use any fear-provoking words such as "hurt," "pull," "drill" and "needle." Avoid
statements like, "The doctor will not hurt you." If someone
says to you, "Don't think of a banana," what is the first
thing you think of? A banana, of course! It's the same with the word "hurt."
We will thoroughly explain each of our procedures to your child,
in terms that he/she can understand, before we do it. We welcome
parents into our operative areas so that we may review your child's
history, diagnosis or problems, but request your cooperation in allowing
our hygienist to develop a one-on-one relationship of trust and cooperation
with your child.
At the first visit, the hygienist will clean
your child's teeth, administer a fluoride treatment and check for
decay. She will emphasize oral hygiene techniques to be practiced
by both you and your child. Afterward, the doctor will review your
child's history, diagnosis or specific problems. A full examination
will be done of the teeth and supporting structures. Occlusion
(bite) will be evaluated. Radiographs (X-rays) will be taken -
as necessary - to ensure a thorough and comprehensive examination.
Subsequent appointments for restorations and sealants may be scheduled
as needed. We will answer any questions you may have. When treatment
has been completed, we will schedule a 6-month recare visit for
your child. You will receive a "reminder" postcard
prior to your 6-month recare visit.
What is CPDG's philosophy of treatment?
Our emphasis is on "prevention" both
in the office and at home. We recommend regular periodic exams
and cleanings, as well as thorough home care. Home care includes
limited sweets, brushing at least two times a day and after meals,
and flossing at least once a day, preferably before bedtime. Sometimes
supplemental fluoride pills, rinses or gels are indicated as part
of the home preventive program. Because the primary teeth form
the basis for adult dentition, we will do everything possible to
preserve the integrity of your child's dentition while fostering
a healthy and relaxed attitude toward dental care.
We offer a full range of dental services for children, adolescents
and the exceptional child, including restorative, preventive dental
care and interceptive orthodontics.
When will the condition of my child's teeth and supporting structures
be discussed with me? Who will explain what work is needed and how
much it will cost?
At the conclusion of the child's exam, the doctor will meet with
you to explain what was found and what treatment is recommended.
Before you leave the office, our patient records coordinator will
discuss fees and options for payment.
If my child has cavities, how does CPDG fill their teeth?
For small cavities, we are able to restore
the teeth without the need for a local anesthetic. For larger cavities,
your child will receive a local anesthetic after first having the
area numbed with a numbing agent applied with a q-tip. This may
be the first time your child has received a local anesthetic. It
will feel like a pinprick and should not be uncomfortable. In addition
to blocking sensation from the teeth, the anesthetic "numbs" the lips, cheeks,
and tongue in the area of treatment. This may be a puzzling or curious
sensation for your child, but you must be careful that your child
does not bite, suck or chew his lips or tongue or laceration of the
tissues could occur. While this is not serious, it is uncomfortable.
Therefore, please watch your child closely for approximately one
hour and avoid eating until the anesthetic has "worn off."
What forms must I fill out, and what are the financial options?
From this web site, you may complete and submit a Patient
Registration Form online or you may choose to download and
complete a Patient
Registration Form at your convenience and bring it with you
to your first appointment.
By doing this in advance, you will be able to fully enjoy our unique
office with your child. If you have dental insurance, please complete
the employee portion of your form and bring it with you as well.
After your dental benefits have been determined, you will be required
to pay only the unpaid portion of your fee at the time of service.
Other financial options will be explained to you at your first
appointment or can be found at Insurance & Billing.
Your aim as a parent and our aim as your child's dentist are the
same: to keep your child's teeth and mouth in good health and to
make the process of doing so a pleasant one for all. If, at any time,
you have any questions regarding any treatment, fee or service, please
discuss them with us promptly and openly. We will make every effort
to promote a long term, mutually satisfying relationship.
We recognize the value of your time. Except in emergency situations
we try to be on time for you. If for some reason you cannot keep
your appointment, we ask that you notify us at least 24 hours in
advance. In the event of dental emergencies,
you may reach us by calling our office anytime.
We look forward to greeting you and your child!
Lawrence Dinkes,
DDS
Andrew Spadinger, DDS
Mary E. Ritter, DMD
The
Commerce Park Dental Group Team
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