Our goal is to see all patients at the appropriate intervals to optimize their individual oral health. In many cases, this means seeing each patient every 6 months for a professional cleaning and exam. In some cases, we will recommend more frequent visits.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that a child go to the dentist by age 1 or within six months after the first tooth erupts. However, we recommend children coming in for their first dental visit no later than age 3. Postponing dental treatment in children, can put them at higher risk of having cavities or buildup on their teeth which can result in a less positive experience for the child on their first visit. Caring for baby teeth is extremely important both for the developing permanent teeth and the child’s overall health. While we love treating children in our office, there are times, when a pediatric dentist will be recommended to continue your child’s care. These decisions are made on a case by case scenario and are always based on providing your child the best overall experience.

Fluoride is one of the many tools we use and recommend to aid in prevention of tooth decay. Fluoride has many benefits for both adults and children. In children, fluoride helps aid the development of strong tooth structure as the adult teeth are forming which will ultimately make them more resistant to decay. For adults, fluoride can help remineralize areas where cavities are just beginning and is also a useful tool to help with tooth sensitivity. Often, we recommend fluoride varnish when many fillings or crowns are present to strengthen areas around the edges of these restorations and prevent recurrent cavities.

In our office, we recommend all patients use a fluoride toothpaste. Depending on a patient’s specific needs, we may recommend additional sources such as a prescription level toothpaste, fluoride rinses, fluoride drops/tablets, or fluoride varnish.

Many patients are concerned about being exposed to radiation. Due to new advanced technologies, digital x-rays provide extremely minimal exposure. In fact, most people will receive more radiation by being outside on a sunny day or taking a short airplane flight than during a series of dental x-rays.

In keeping with our commitment to providing exceptional quality of care, Magnolia Springs Dentistry uses conservative judgement before ordering any x-rays and only do so in the best interest of each individual patient. Dental x-rays provide vital information to assist in keeping you healthy. X-rays allow us to diagnose many oral health problems that cannot be seen or diagnosed by simply looking in the mouth including cavities between the teeth, bone infections, gum disease, abscesses and cysts, developmental abnormalities, and some types of tumors and cancers.

X-rays are an essential diagnostic tool that allow us to provide comprehensive dental care. By identifying dental disease at an early stage, patients can be saved time and money in treating the dental problem. We follow ADA guidelines in collaboration with the FDA and SC state laws as an adjunct to the dentist’s professional judgement when determining the best protocol in recommending x-rays as part a patient’s care.