Frequently Asked Questions
Learn what you need to know about our practice with our Frequently Asked Questions below. Still have questions? Give us a call!
Appointments
What are your office hours?
Cuddle Kids Pediatric Dentistry is open Monday - Thursday, 9am - 5pm.
Closed Friday and Saturday
Lunch is daily from 1pm - 2pm.
Please note that our office will be closed in observance of the following holidays:
New Year’s Day, President’s Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Friday after Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
How do I schedule an appointment?
For your convenience, we offer the following methods to schedule your appointments:
- Online scheduling: To request appointment availability, please click here to fill out the form. Our scheduling coordinator will contact you to confirm your appointment.
- Call our office at (682) 285-1010
- Email us at info@cuddlekidsdentalcare.com with your preferred date or day of the week and time range, and our scheduling coordinator will contact you to confirm your appointment.
How often should I schedule regular check-ups?
The American Dental Association recommends two appointments every year. These appointments typically include all needed x-rays, exams, and cleanings. Some children may need more frequent check-ups based on their dental needs. After your child's first exam, we'll be able to determine the best frequency for their dental health.
What do I need to bring to my child's first appointment?
What if I need to reschedule?
Please call our office at least 24 hours in advance of your appointment. We'll work with you to help you find another date that fits your schedule.
What is your cancellation policy?
We understand that unforeseen situations may arise that are out of your control. If you miss an appointment, we will attempt to reschedule at a more convenient time. However, out of courtesy of our other patients and due to limited appointment times available we ask that you be considerate and attempt to let us know in advance.
What if my child needs emergency dental care?
If your child has pain or an emergency situation, every attempt will be made to see them within 24 hours. If you need urgent dental care after our office hours, please contact our office and leave a voicemail. We check our messages frequently and will get back to you as soon as possible.
Treatments
At what age should I schedule my child’s first visit?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends visiting the dentist as soon as the first tooth appears, or by the child’s first birthday. We can look for potential problems and help your child get to know us as their friend. These early visits can make your child’s experience with a dentist a positive one.
What happens during my child's first visit?
- Take full mouth x-rays (as needed) to identify any current problems and to use as a baseline on future visits to detect early signs of problems.
- Assess gum condition and health.
- Examine teeth for cavities and condition of old dental restorations.
- Perform a head and neck exam, including salivary glands and lymph nodes, for swelling or other abnormalities.
- Clean and polish your teeth.
- Apply fluoride as needed.
Why do I need to discuss my child's medical conditions with the dentist?
Many health conditions are indicated in the mouth and can affect oral health, so your child's medical information is very important in diagnosing issues with their teeth, gums and mouth.
Are xrays necessary?
Absolutely. Dental xrays are essential, preventative, diagnostic tools. Many oral conditions occur between teeth or under the gums or bones, undetectable by the human eye, and may have no early signs or symptoms. Left untreated, these conditions can create serious dental and general health problems, including loss of teeth and heart problems. Early detection with xrays can make treatment much less painful, faster, and less expensive. The American Dental Association recommends getting a full series every three years.
Can my teenager come alone to the appointment?
Please note that patients under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all visits. We want to meet with both of you to discuss findings and treatments, and to address your questions and concerns.
Sedation
What types of sedation do you use?
Many dental procedures can be completed under local anesthesia. However, to help more anxious patients relax, or for more complex procedures, inhalation sedation and oral sedation (including nitrous oxide) are available.
What is Novocaine?
The most common anesthesia, Novocaine works by blocking the nerve that supplies sensation to the teeth in a specific area. You feel no pain during the procedure and are totally alert, aware, and able to function normally. The effect wears off fairly quickly with no side effects.
What is Inhalation Sedation?
Known as nitrous oxide or “laughing gas,” you’ll experience a feeling of euphoria after just 2-3 minutes of breathing in the gas. You’ll be aware of your surroundings and able to respond to questions. Inhalation sedation has very few side effects and is eliminated from the body within 3 to 5 minutes after the gas supply is stopped.
What is Oral Sedation?
This general anesthetic allows you to be conscious but feel nothing during treatment. We provide you with medication to be taken before your appointment, allowing you to be fully relaxed by the time we begin your dental treatment. You may not be safe to drive, so you should expect to have someone bring you to our office and take you home after your appointment.
Ready for your appointment?
Call us at (682) 285-1010 or click the button to schedule your appointment. We look forward to hearing from you!