With more than 50 years of experience serving the children of Hawaii, there’s not much the dentists of Pediatric Dental Group haven’t been asked about dental care for kids. Below they’ve compiled some of the most commonly asked questions by parents.

Top 5 FAQs About Pediatric Dentistry

When should I take my child for his first dental care visit?

Like the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the dentists at Pediatric Dental Group believe children should see a pediatric dentist as soon as their first teeth emerge. This should occur no later than the child’s first birthday.

Should I Take My Child To a Pediatric Dentist or a Family Dentist?

Pediatric dentists specialize in the dental care of children and limit their practices to patients who are infants up to teenagers. They have special training to administer preventative and emergency dental care to children, unlike family dentists, who are typically trained in general dental care for all ages.

What should I do if my child has a toothache? 

You should schedule an appointment with a dentist as soon as possible, but in the meantime, you should rinse your child’s sore tooth with warm salt water. It’s OK to administer acetaminophen for pain relief and use a cold compress on the face for swelling.

How often should my child see a dentist? 

It’s advisable to schedule a routine check-up every six months to prevent cavities and encourage good dental care. If your child experiences problems, his or her dentist can advise you if more frequent visits are needed.

How can I prevent tooth decay in my child’s teeth?

Regular dental care visits are the key, but parents should also encourage brushing and flossing at home. Combined with a balanced diet free of acidic and sugary drinks, this can teach your child healthy dental care habits to prevent cavities and other problems as they age.

Schedule an appointment for your child with Pediatric Dental Group by calling (808) 593-8828 for the Honolulu office or (808) 245-2131 for the Lihue office.