Common questions
Short answers for parents. If yours isn't here, call or send us a message.
When should my child have a first dental visit?
By their first birthday, or about six months after the first tooth comes in. A first visit is mostly a hello: we count teeth, talk with you about brushing and answer your questions.
How do you help a child who is nervous?
We show each tool, say what it does and let your child touch it first. You stay beside your child, and we pause whenever they ask. Some children like a movie on the ceiling screen or a fidget toy. We never force a child into treatment.
What ages do you see?
From a baby's first tooth through the teen years. Many families bring children of different ages, and we can often schedule them together.
Do you take my dental insurance?
We file claims for PPO dental plans. Whether we are in network depends on your plan, so give us its name when you call and we'll check before the visit. The fees page lists the plan types.
What if we don't have insurance?
You pay the fee for the visit, and we give you a written estimate before treatment starts. Ask for it when you book. Financing is offered by third-party lenders; approval and terms are set by the lender.
Do you accept Medicaid or CHIP?
Plans differ, so call us with your child's plan and we'll tell you plainly whether we take it.
Will it hurt?
Most children feel pressure or a tickle, not pain. When a filling needs it, we numb the area, say what your child may feel before we start, and stop when your child asks for a break. We can't promise a child will feel nothing.
How often does my child need a visit or X-rays?
Many children come every six months for a cleaning and checkup. The dentist decides how often your child needs a visit and when an X-ray is worth taking, and tells you why.
What do I do if my child has a dental emergency?
Call us right away if a tooth is knocked out or broken, or your child has a toothache. We tell you what to do first and when we can see your child. If breathing or swallowing is hard, swelling spreads to the face or eye, or bleeding won't stop, go to an emergency room or call 911.
Do you use laughing gas?
For some visits, yes. Laughing gas is a mild sedative your child breathes through a small mask, and your child stays awake. The dentist decides with you whether it fits, and a trained team member stays beside your child the whole time. It helps some children relax and doesn't suit everyone. We don't offer deeper sedation or general anesthesia.
Do you speak Spanish?
Yes. Dr. Castillo and Tomás Camargo speak Spanish with families, and this site has a Spanish version. Tell us when you book and we'll try to schedule one of them.
How do I cancel or change a visit?
Call us or send a message at least 24 hours ahead so another family can have the time.
Still have questions?
Call or send a message, or ask for a look around the office before your child's first visit.