Frequently asked questions

Board-certified pediatric dentist are held to the highest standards in pediatric dental care. These dentists have completed specialized training and a voluntary certification process, emphasizing their proficiency in dental treatments tailored specifically for children. Their board certification indicates a commitment to continuous learning and adherence to the latest advancements in pediatric dentistry. Your child's dental health is paramount, which is why choosing a board-certified pediatric dentist like Dr. Andrea Aduna is essential. Dr. Aduna's board certification underscores her specialized training, expertise in pediatric dental care, and dedication to the highest standards of practice. This level of recognition is a testament to her commitment to providing the best possible dental care for children, ensuring a solid foundation for lifelong oral health.‍

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that every child should have an initial oral evaluation by a pediatric dentist by Age 1 or within 6 months after their first tooth appears. At Poppy Kids Pediatric Dentistry, your child's first visit includes a facility tour, possible cleaning, dental radiographs, fluoride treatment, and an examination by Dr. Andrea. She'll discuss dental care, answer questions, and cover topics like brushing, flossing, and diet. We recommend follow-up visits every 3-6 months, based on individual dental needs. For children under three, we offer a complimentary first appointment with no obligation.

Our pediatric dental practice typically provides care for patients up to the age of 18. This includes the transition period from childhood into adolescence, ensuring continuous dental health supervision and treatment throughout their formative years. As young patients grow, their dental needs evolve, and our practice is equipped to address these changing needs, from preventive care and treatment of childhood cavities to guidance on orthodontics and wisdom teeth. Our goal is to maintain their oral health and instill good dental habits that will carry into adulthood. However, for specific cases or individual needs, the age range may vary, and we're always open to discussing continued care beyond this age on a case-by-case basis.

Both complete dental school, but a pediatric dentist goes on to two to three additional years of residency devoted entirely to children — child development and psychology, behavior guidance, growth of the teeth and jaws, treating children with special healthcare needs, and pediatric sedation. Pediatric offices are also built for kids, from equipment sized for small mouths to a pace and language that put children at ease. Board certification through the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, which Dr. Andrea holds, adds a voluntary examination and ongoing peer review on top of that training.

Keep it positive and simple. Talk about the visit as something fun — counting teeth, riding in the chair — and avoid words like “hurt,” “shot,” or “drill,” even reassuringly, since they plant worries. Picture books and pretend dentist visits at home help younger children know what to expect, and scheduling for a time of day your child is usually rested and fed makes everything easier. At Poppy Kids, first visits are unhurried: your child tours the office, meets the team, and goes at their own speed — and for children under three, the first visit is complimentary.

Every six months is the standard rhythm for checkups and cleanings — cavities in baby teeth can move quickly, and twice-yearly visits let us catch small problems while they are still small. Some children benefit from more frequent care: Dr. Andrea may recommend visits every three to four months for kids with higher cavity risk, orthodontic appliances, or habits we are actively monitoring. Regular visits also build familiarity with the dental office, which is the best long-term antidote to dental anxiety.

When a child's tooth becomes wiggly, it's usually a sign that they are ready to lose their first baby tooth. This typically occurs around the age of 6, but it can vary from child to child. Parents should encourage the child to gently wiggle the tooth but avoid forcing it out before it's ready, as this can cause pain and increase the risk of infection. Natural wiggling and day-to-day activities like eating will usually lead to the tooth coming out on its own. If the loose tooth is causing discomfort or if there are concerns about how it's coming out, it's advisable to consult with a pediatric dentist. Regular dental visits also help monitor the progress of tooth loss and the growth of permanent teeth.

It's generally appropriate to start evaluating a child for wisdom tooth extraction in the teenage years, typically around the ages of 14 to 18. However, the timing can vary depending on individual development and dental health. At Poppy Kids Pediatric Dentistry, we use dental x-rays to monitor the growth and position of wisdom teeth. The decision to extract is based on factors such as potential crowding, misalignment, risk of impaction (where the tooth does not fully emerge or grows in the wrong direction), and pain or discomfort. Early evaluation is important because it allows for timely intervention, which can prevent more complex issues later on. If the wisdom teeth are likely to cause dental problems, proactive extraction is often recommended. Conversely, if they are healthy, fully grown, correctly positioned, and can be cleaned as part of daily hygiene practices, they might not need to be removed.

Parents can typically start considering an orthodontic evaluation for their child around the age of 7. This is the age recommended by the American Association of Orthodontists, as most children have a mix of baby and adult teeth by then, making it easier to diagnose and correct tooth and jaw problems sooner rather than later. Early evaluation doesn't necessarily mean early treatment; it allows the orthodontist to determine the best time to begin any necessary treatment. Signs that your child might need to see an orthodontist include crowded or misplaced teeth, difficulty in chewing or biting, mouth breathing, thumb sucking beyond age 5, and misaligned teeth. Early orthodontic intervention can guide jaw growth, correct harmful oral habits, and improve the appearance and function of your child's teeth.

Most babies get their first tooth around six months, usually a lower front tooth, and have a full set of 20 baby teeth by about age three. Those teeth begin to loosen and fall out around age six, starting with the front teeth, and are gradually replaced by 28 permanent teeth through roughly age 12 to 13. Wisdom teeth, when they develop, arrive in the late teens. Every child's timeline varies — a year on either side is usually normal — but if teeth seem far off schedule, ask us at a checkup.

Yes — they do far more than hold a place in photos. Baby teeth let children chew and get proper nutrition, support clear speech development, shape the growing jaws, and hold space so permanent teeth erupt into the right positions. Losing a baby tooth too early — or leaving decay untreated — can crowd or misalign the adult teeth behind it, and an infected baby tooth can hurt and can damage the developing permanent tooth underneath. Healthy baby teeth are the foundation adult smiles are built on.

“Shark teeth” is the nickname for a permanent tooth erupting behind a baby tooth that hasn't fallen out yet, so the two rows briefly overlap — most often with the lower front teeth around age six. It looks alarming but is usually harmless: as the permanent tooth comes in, the baby tooth's root dissolves and it typically falls out on its own. Encourage gentle wiggling. If the baby tooth stays firmly in place for more than a couple of months, or the area is painful, come see us — occasionally the baby tooth needs help coming out.

Teething usually starts around six months and can bring drooling, chewing on everything in reach, tender or swollen gums, fussiness, and disrupted sleep. A chilled — not frozen — teething ring, a clean cool washcloth to chew on, and gentle gum massage with a clean finger all soothe sore gums. Skip numbing gels containing benzocaine and amber teething necklaces; both carry real safety risks. A slight rise in temperature can accompany teething, but a true fever, diarrhea, or a sick-acting baby deserves a call to your pediatrician.

For introducing an electric toothbrush to children, it's generally recommended to start around the age of 3. This is when children can begin to learn proper brushing habits, and an electric toothbrush can make the process more effective and engaging for them. It's important to choose a toothbrush that is specifically designed for children, with soft bristles and a smaller brush head to comfortably fit in their mouth. Models with timers and gentle oscillating or sonic actions are ideal. However, supervision and guidance by parents are crucial to ensure children brush effectively and safely.

The most common cause is inadequate brushing, leading to plaque buildup which can stain the teeth. Additionally, the natural color of a child's permanent teeth, which are typically more yellow than baby teeth, can become more noticeable as they come in. Other factors include certain medications, enamel weakness (hypoplasia), and genetics. It's important to maintain good oral hygiene and have regular dental check-ups to address any concerns. If the yellowing is pronounced or accompanied by other symptoms, a visit to the pediatric dentist is advised for a proper assessment and appropriate treatment.

Children should start brushing their teeth with assistance as soon as their first tooth appears, typically around six months of age. However, they usually begin to develop the motor skills necessary for brushing and flossing independently around the age of 6 to 8 years. At this age, children can generally be expected to brush their own teeth, but it's important for parents to supervise and ensure that they're doing it effectively, reaching all areas of the mouth and using the correct amount of toothpaste. Flossing can be a bit more challenging and may require parental assistance or supervision for a little longer, typically until the child is about 8 to 10 years old. Even as children start brushing and flossing independently, regular check-ins and occasional brushing together can help reinforce good habits and technique. It's also important to maintain regular dental check-ups to monitor their oral hygiene and get professional advice on their brushing and flossing skills.

Teenagers can safely begin teeth whitening procedures usually around the age of 14 to 16. The key consideration is that the permanent teeth, particularly the front teeth, have fully erupted and matured. This maturity is important because the enamel needs to be fully developed to minimize sensitivity and maximize the effectiveness of the whitening agents. Before starting any whitening treatment, it's crucial for a teenager to have a dental examination. The dentist will assess the overall oral health, check for cavities or gum problems, and determine if teeth whitening is appropriate. It's also important to manage expectations and ensure that whitening is done safely, using dentist-approved methods and products. Overuse of whitening products or improper techniques can damage tooth enamel and gums, especially in younger, more sensitive mouths. Parental consent and guidance, along with professional dental advice, are essential when considering teeth whitening for teenagers.

Start brushing with fluoride toothpaste as soon as the first tooth appears — but the amount matters. Under age three, use just a smear the size of a grain of rice. From age three, once your child can spit, move up to a pea-sized amount. Brush twice a day, and have an adult do or supervise the brushing until your child has the dexterity to do a thorough job alone, usually around age six to eight. If your family prefers a fluoride-free option, ask us about alternatives at your next visit.

Used as recommended, yes — fluoride is one of the most studied and effective tools in dentistry, strengthening enamel and even reversing the earliest stage of decay. The key is age-appropriate amounts: a rice-grain smear of toothpaste for children under three and a pea-sized amount after. One local note: Novato and West Marin's municipal water is not fluoridated, so children here don't get the baseline protection kids in fluoridated cities do. That's why Dr. Andrea assesses each child's cavity risk individually and tailors fluoride recommendations, including professional varnish at checkups, accordingly.

We'll work with you. Dr. Andrea respects that families weigh cavity prevention differently and can discuss alternatives, including nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste — a fluoride-free remineralizing option with growing research behind it — along with diet strategies and customized home-care routines. What matters most is that the plan actually protects your child's teeth, so we pair whatever approach you choose with regular checkups to confirm it is working and adjust course if cavities start to appear.

Sealants are thin protective resin coatings flowed into the deep grooves of the back teeth, where most childhood cavities start — think of them as raincoats for molars. Those grooves trap food and bacteria that even good brushing can miss, and sealants smooth them over so plaque can't settle in. Application is quick, painless, and drill-free, and studies show sealants reduce molar decay by nearly 80% in the first two years. Dr. Andrea evaluates each child's molars individually and recommends sealants when the grooves and cavity risk warrant them.

Frequency matters more than quantity: every sugary or starchy exposure gives cavity-causing bacteria roughly 20 to 30 minutes of acid production, so all-day grazing and sipping do more damage than the same treat enjoyed at one sitting. The biggest offenders are sticky carbohydrates — gummies, fruit snacks, and crackers that pack into molar grooves — and sweet drinks, including juice, sports drinks, and soda. Water is the best default drink, treats belong with meals rather than between them, and rinsing or brushing afterward shortens the acid attack.

Cavities come from a simple equation: bacteria plus sugar plus time. Cavity-causing bacteria feed on carbohydrates left on the teeth and produce acid that dissolves enamel; repeat that cycle often enough and a hole forms. In its earliest stage — a chalky white spot — the damage can still be reversed with fluoride and better habits, which is one reason regular checkups matter so much. Genetics, enamel strength, saliva, diet, and hygiene all shift the odds, so Dr. Andrea assesses each child's individual cavity risk and builds prevention around it.

Children typically start getting dental X-rays around the age 3 to 4. X-rays are important for several reasons: they help in detecting cavities between teeth, monitoring tooth growth and development, assessing the impact of any injuries, and planning orthodontic treatment. Pediatric dentists use X-rays to ensure a child's teeth and jaw are developing properly and to identify potential issues early, when they are easier to treat. The frequency of dental X-rays depends on the child's individual needs and dental health.

Nitrous oxide has one of the longest safety records in pediatric dentistry. Your child breathes it through a soft, scented nose mask, stays fully awake and able to talk, and simply feels more relaxed. Dr. Andrea adjusts the level throughout the visit, and afterward five minutes of pure oxygen clears it completely from the body — kids return to school or play right away with no lingering effects. It's a gentle option for children who need a little help settling in for treatment.

Three levels, matched to your child's age, anxiety, and treatment needs. Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) provides mild relaxation while your child stays fully awake. Oral conscious sedation — a liquid medication given in the office — helps children who need more than nitrous but not full sleep; Dr. Andrea holds a certificate in oral conscious sedation and monitors continuously following AAPD guidelines. For extensive treatment, very young children, or kids with special healthcare needs, we provide general anesthesia in partnership with Bay Anesthesia's pediatric dental anesthesiologists, completing all treatment in a single visit while your child sleeps.

Because a cavity doesn't wait politely for the tooth to fall out. Decay in a baby tooth can cause real pain, spread to neighboring teeth, and turn into infection that harms the permanent tooth developing underneath. Baby molars are also in the mouth far longer than parents expect — often until age 10 to 12 — and losing one early lets other teeth drift into the gap, crowding the adult tooth meant to replace it. Treating decay early is smaller, gentler, and less costly than treating the problems it grows into.

SDF is an FDA-approved liquid that can stop decay without drilling, numbing, or shots — the silver kills cavity-causing bacteria while the fluoride strengthens the tooth. It's applied in seconds with a tiny brush, making it especially useful for very young children, kids still building up to traditional treatment, or managing several cavities at once. The tradeoff: it permanently stains the decayed spot black, a visible sign the decay has been arrested. Dr. Andrea often uses SDF as a conservative interim step, buying time until a child is ready for a permanent restoration.

The ideal age for children to stop using a pacifier or engaging in thumb sucking is typically around the age of 2 to 3 years. Prolonged pacifier use or thumb sucking beyond this age range can lead to dental problems, such as misaligned teeth and changes in the roof of the mouth. It's important to gradually wean children off these habits to prevent potential orthodontic issues in the future. Every child is different, so the approach can vary. Encouragement, positive reinforcement, and providing comfort in other ways can be effective strategies. If the habit persists or if you're concerned about its impact on your child's teeth, consulting with a pediatric dentist can provide further guidance and personalized strategies.

Nighttime grinding (bruxism) is surprisingly common in children, and most outgrow it on their own — often as baby teeth are replaced by permanent ones. Usually no treatment is needed. It is worth an evaluation if you notice worn or flattened teeth, morning jaw pain or headaches, chipped enamel, or grinding that persists into the teen years. At regular checkups Dr. Andrea watches for wear patterns and can recommend next steps, including a nightguard for older children when warranted.

For any sport with contact, a ball, or a hard surface — soccer, basketball, baseball, biking, skateboarding, martial arts — yes. The CDC estimates more than three million teeth are knocked out at youth sporting events each year, and a mouthguard is the single best protection for teeth, lips, and tongue. Store-bought boil-and-bite guards are far better than nothing; a custom-fitted guard from our office is more comfortable and protective, which matters because the best mouthguard is the one your child will actually wear.

For a permanent tooth, minutes matter: pick it up by the crown (never the root), rinse it gently with milk or saline without scrubbing, and place it back in the socket if your child can cooperate — otherwise keep it in cold milk or your child's saliva and call us immediately. A permanent tooth replanted within about 30 minutes has the best chance of being saved. A knocked-out baby tooth is different: don't reinsert it, since that can damage the adult tooth underneath — control bleeding with a clean cloth and call us the same day.

Rinse with warm water and gently floss around the sore tooth to clear any trapped food — a surprising number of “toothaches” are exactly that. A cold compress on the cheek helps with swelling, and an age-appropriate pain reliever is fine, but never place aspirin directly on the gums. Call us the same day if the ache lasts more than a day, wakes your child at night, or comes with fever or facial swelling — those signs point to something that needs treatment, not just time.

Go to the emergency room — or call 911 — for bleeding that won't stop after ten minutes of steady pressure, trouble breathing or swallowing, a possible broken jaw, or a head injury with loss of consciousness, confusion, or vomiting. Almost everything else, including knocked-out or broken teeth, toothaches, and most swelling, is treated faster and better by a pediatric dentist. When you're unsure, our dental emergencies page has a symptom checker built on Dr. Andrea's guidance, or call us at (415) 408-5775.