Frequently Asked Questions
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a first visit by age 1 or within 6 months of the first tooth erupting. Early visits help children feel comfortable and allow us to monitor development from the start. The exam is very brief and a cleaning will not necessarily be done. The most important part of this first visit is our discussion to support good oral health from the start.
Reference: American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Guideline on Infant Oral Health Care.
Keep it positive and simple. Use reassuring language and avoid words that might create worry. Let your child know the dentist will “count and look at their teeth” and help keep their smile healthy.
At home, you can:
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Play dentist by taking turns looking at each other’s teeth with a mirror and counting them
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Read children’s books about visiting the dentist to make it feel familiar
Our team is specially trained to guide children through each step with gentle, supportive care. We always go at your child’s pace and focus on making their first visits positive and comfortable.
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Keep your message calm, simple, and positive. Let your child know the dentist will help fix and protect their tooth and keep their smile healthy. Try to avoid introducing details that may cause worry (e.g., “needles,” “drills,” or “pulling teeth”). Children often take cues from their parents, so staying relaxed and confident makes a big difference. If your child has questions, it’s perfectly okay to say:“I’m not sure—we’ll ask the dentist together at your appointment.”
Yes! Fuoride is safe when used in the right amount.
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Ages 0–3: use a smear (rice grain–sized) amount of toothpaste. Yes, this means from the time the first tooth erupts. Swallowing a small amount is expected at this stage, though you can gently encourage spitting as they get older.
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Ages 3+: use a pea-sized amount.
Pro tip: keep toothpaste stored out of reach (like a high shelf) and supervise brushing to ensure the right amount is used.
Reference: American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Policy on Use of Fluoride
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Establish a fun routine with twice-daily brushing and flossing once teeth touch. We also provide personalized hygiene education during visits to empower your child's healthy habits.
For more details please consult this pamphlet from Québec MSSS
Yes, we prioritize dental emergencies. If your child experiences an injury or sudden pain, please contact our office immediately so we can provide swift relief and care. (514) 565-KIND (5463)
Baby teeth may be temporary, but they play a very important role in your child's overall health and development.
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They hold space for permanent teeth
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They affect eating and nutrition
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They support speech development
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They most often lead to pain and infection
Bottom line: healthy baby teeth mean a healthier, happier child, and smoother path to a beautiful adult smile.
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Absolutely — and we consider it one of the most important parts of our practice.
Visit our page on Special Needs for more information.
A general dentist is trained to treat patients of all ages, with most of their training and daily practice focused on adults. A pediatric dentist completes an additional 2–3 years of specialized residency after dental school, dedicated entirely to the oral health, development, and behaviour of children.
Our office environment, equipment, communication style, and behaviour management techniques are all designed specifically for children and adolescents.
