Common questions

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a first visit by a child's first birthday, or within six months of the first tooth. An early visit is short and mostly a tour.

A look around the office, a chance to sit in the chair and hold the mirror, a gentle exam, and a talk with you about what the dentist saw. It takes about 45 minutes.

Yes. Parents stay with their child, especially with younger children. As kids grow more comfortable, some like a little independence, and that's fine too.

We tell your child what they will feel before they feel it, with words like pressure or tickle, and we stop when they need a break. If a child needs numbing, the dentist explains it to you first. If your child needs more support than we can give, we say so and talk with you about the next step.

Many children come every six months. The dentist decides the schedule from your child's teeth and habits, and some children need to come more or less often.

Only if the dentist decides they would help. X-rays use a small amount of radiation, and we cover your child with a lead apron. The dentist explains why before taking any.

Call us and we'll tell you what we can do today. If a permanent tooth is knocked out, keep it moist in milk and call right away. Trouble breathing or swallowing, or swelling in the face or neck, is a 911 call.

We bill PPO dental plans and file the claim for you, and we check your child's benefits before the first visit. Whether we are in network depends on your plan, so call us and we'll tell you before you book.

You pay the fee for the visit, and we give you a written estimate before any treatment starts. Our how fees work page explains it in full.

Call us and we'll answer plainly before you book, so you don't make a trip for nothing.

Dr. Velazquez speaks Spanish with families. Tell us when you book and we'll schedule your visit with her. This site is also in Spanish.

Call us or send a message as early as you can. If your child is sick, tell us and we'll find another day.