Parent FAQs
Parents have plenty of questions about their children's teeth, and that is a good sign. Here are answers to some of the most common ones. If you do not see your question, call us. We are always happy to talk. At Edgemont Dental in Southwest Edmonton, we care for children of all ages, from the first tooth through the teenage years.
First Visits
When should my child first see a dentist?
Canadian Dental Association guidance is to visit within six months of the first tooth coming in, or by age one, whichever comes first.
What happens at the first visit?
The first visit is short and calm, and your child can sit on your lap. Your child can look around the clinic, meet the team and sit in the chair at their own pace. We then do a gentle exam, count the teeth and do a cleaning suited to their age. If appropriate, we apply fluoride or sealants and show you and your child how to brush and floss.
How can I prepare my child for the visit?
Keep it simple and positive. Tell your child that the dentist will count and look at their teeth. Avoid words like "pain", "needle", "hurt" or "shot". Let us know about any worries when you book.
My child is nervous. What can you do?
We explain each step in simple words, show it on a model and only then do it. We take our time, treatment is never forced, and nitrous oxide is available for children who need extra support.
How often should my child have checkups?
Usually every six months. Children at higher risk of cavities may need visits every three to four months.
Baby Teeth
Do baby teeth really matter if they fall out?
Yes. Baby teeth help your child chew and speak, and they hold space for the permanent teeth. Decay in baby teeth can cause pain and can affect the adult teeth that follow.
What if my child loses a baby tooth early?
Call us. Depending on the situation, a space maintainer may be recommended to hold space for the permanent tooth.
What if an adult tooth is coming in behind a baby tooth that has not fallen out?
If the baby tooth has not fallen out after a couple of weeks, bring your child in so we can check whether it needs to be removed.
What should I do about thumb sucking or a pacifier?
Most children outgrow these habits. If they continue as adult teeth come in, they can affect how the teeth and jaws develop. Talk to your dentist about what is right for your child.
Daily Care
How should I brush my child's teeth?
Brush twice a day with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste: a rice-grain amount for children under 3, and a pea-sized amount for ages 3 to 6. Young children need help from a parent or caregiver until they can brush well on their own.
When should we start flossing?
As soon as two teeth touch, flossing helps clean between them.
Which foods and drinks are best for healthy teeth?
Water and milk are best, along with fruits and vegetables. Limit sugary snacks and drinks, particularly between meals. Serve juice as an occasional treat with meals rather than sipping it through the day.
Preventive Care and Treatment
What are sealants and fluoride?
Sealants are protective coatings for the chewing surfaces of back teeth, and fluoride strengthens enamel. Both help prevent cavities. See our sealants and fluoride page for more.
What if my child has a cavity?
We treat cavities early with tooth-coloured fillings, in a gentle, step-by-step way. See our children's fillings page for more.
Dental Emergencies
What if my child chips or knocks out a tooth?
Call us right away. We offer emergency care for chipped or knocked-out teeth.
- Knocked-out baby tooth: Do not put it back in. Apply gentle pressure if there is bleeding, and call the clinic. A space maintainer may be needed.
- Knocked-out permanent tooth: Treat it as a true emergency. Hold the tooth by the crown, rinse it gently, and reinsert it or keep it in milk. Call us right away.
- Chipped tooth: A small chip without pain can wait for a regular appointment. A large chip, significant pain or a loose tooth should be seen the same day.
For more first aid advice, visit our emergency dentist page.
Before and After Your Child's Visit
Before: Use positive words, bring any questions and tell us about your child's health and worries when you book.
After: Keep up twice-daily brushing, daily flossing and regular checkups. Follow any aftercare tips we give you, and call us if your child has pain, swelling or anything that worries you.
Practical Questions
Can I book the whole family together?
Yes. Family appointments can be booked together, and we offer evening appointments Monday to Thursday and Saturday appointments on alternating weeks.
Do you direct bill insurance?
We direct bill most major insurance providers, and our front desk can verify your coverage before your visit. You pay only the balance not covered, and payment plans are available for larger treatments.
Do you accept the Alberta Child Health Benefit?
Yes. We accept the Alberta Child Health Benefit (ACHB) for eligible children. You can check eligibility on alberta.ca or by calling the clinic.
Are you accepting new patients?
Yes. We welcome new patients of all ages, and no referral is needed.
Book Your Child's Visit in Edmonton
Call (780) 761-7070 or book online. You will find us at 20036 Lessard Rd NW, Edmonton, AB T6M 0T9.