First Visit
Your child's first visit to our office consists of introducing the child to the dental environment by meeting the dentist and the dental staff. The child is made to feel comfortable, and everything that is done is explained using the Show and Tell method. During the first appointment, Dr. Udis will conduct a complete oral examination, a prophylaxis (cleaning), any necessary radiographs and a topical fluoride treatment. A pleasant, comfortable first visit builds trust and helps put the child at ease during future dental visits. For babies and toddlers, we recommend the first visit involves the child sitting in a parent's lap during the exam.
Before the first appointment, we suggest that parents tell their children that they are going to the dentist to have their teeth counted and brushed. We look to work with parents to prevent an unnecessary fear associated with dental care. As much as you may be inclined to help your child prepare for the experience of going to the dentist, our team is highly skilled at both providing dental care and making it a positive experience!To assist us with your child's care, please click on the link below and fill out this health history form before your child's first appointment.
Payment / Insurance
Your treatment plan will include a breakdown of all applicable fees, and we will inform you of all costs before treatment is administered. Payment is expected in full on the day services are performed. We accept all major credit cards.
Because we are not a participating provider with any dental insurance plans (and we do not accept payment for services from insurance plans), you are personally responsible for your account. We will, however, assist you with the submission of your insurance claims in order to help you maximize you benefits. If you have not received payment from your insurance plan within 30 days, we encourage you to contact us for assistance.
Common Problems
Tooth Decay
Caries, or tooth decay, is a preventable disease. While caries might not endanger your life, they may negatively impact your quality of life.
When your teeth and gums are consistently exposed to large amounts of starches and sugars, acids may form that begin to eat away at tooth enamel. Carbohydrate-rich foods such as candy, cookies, soft drinks and even fruit juices leave deposits on your teeth. Those deposits bond with the bacteria that normally survive in your mouth and form plaque. The combination of deposits and plaque forms acids that can damage the mineral structure of teeth, with tooth decay resulting.
Sensitive Teeth
Your teeth expand and contract in reaction to changes in temperature. Hot and cold food and beverages can cause pain or irritation to people with sensitive teeth. Over time, tooth enamel can be worn down, gums may recede or teeth may develop microscopic cracks, exposing the interior of the tooth and irritating nerve endings. Just breathing cold air can be painful for those with extremely sensitive teeth.
Gum Disease
Gum, or periodontal, disease can cause inflammation, tooth loss and bone damage. Gum disease begins with a sticky film of bacteria called plaque. Gums in the early stage of disease, or gingivitis, can bleed easily and become red and swollen. As the disease progresses to periodontitis, teeth may fall out or need to be removed by a dentist. Gum disease is highly preventable and can usually be avoided by daily brushing and flossing. One indicator of gum disease is consistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth.
Canker Sores
Canker sores (aphthous ulcers) are small sores inside the mouth that often recur. Generally lasting one or two weeks, the duration of canker sores can be reduced by the use of antimicrobial mouthwashes or topical agents. The canker sore has a white or gray base surrounded by a red border.
Orthodontic Problems
A bite that does not meet properly (a malocclusion) can be inherited, or some types may be acquired. Some causes of malocclusion include missing or extra teeth, crowded teeth or misaligned jaws. Accidents or developmental issues, such as finger or thumb sucking over an extended period of time, may cause malocclusions.