Just The FAQs
Do we need a referral?
No referral is necessary. While many patients are referred to our office, families are always welcome to contact us directly to schedule an appointment.
Why choose a pediatric dental specialist?
Pediatric dentists complete an additional two years of specialized training after dental school, focusing exclusively on the dental needs of infants, children, and adolescents. This includes advanced training in growth, development, behavior management, and specialized care.
Do you treat tongue and lip ties?
Yes. We are highly experienced in performing laser tongue and lip tie releases (frenectomies). We offer prompt evaluations and can often provide same-day treatment, especially for newborns.
Please visit our Tongue & Lip Tie page for more detailed information.
Please visit our Tongue & Lip Tie page for more detailed information.
Do you accept insurance?
State Insurance: Yes, we accept Oklahoma state insurance plans.
Private Insurance: We accept many plans and assist families with insurance filing. Please contact our office for specific coverage details.
Private Insurance: We accept many plans and assist families with insurance filing. Please contact our office for specific coverage details.
Is this a routine dental office?
No. Our practice is a specialty office focused on children who require dental treatment beyond routine cleanings and exams, often involving sedation or more comprehensive care.
What age patients do you see?
We typically treat patients 12 years old and younger.
What sedation options are available?
We offer multiple levels of sedation based on your child’s needs:
- Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas)
- In-office IV (deep sedation)
- General anesthesia at a surgery center or hospital
Our goal is to provide safe, comfortable, and effective care for every child.
» View more details on our Sedation page.
- Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas)
- In-office IV (deep sedation)
- General anesthesia at a surgery center or hospital
Our goal is to provide safe, comfortable, and effective care for every child.
» View more details on our Sedation page.
Can parents stay with their child during the visit?
Parents and guardians are always involved during consultations and exams.
During treatment or sedation procedures, you will be asked to wait in a nearby area for safety and success.
During treatment or sedation procedures, you will be asked to wait in a nearby area for safety and success.
Do you offer white crowns (caps)?
Yes.
Front teeth are always restored with white crowns.
Back teeth may have white crown options, though stainless steel crowns are often recommended for strength and longevity.
Please note that many insurance plans do not cover white crowns on back teeth. This will be discussed during your consultation.
Front teeth are always restored with white crowns.
Back teeth may have white crown options, though stainless steel crowns are often recommended for strength and longevity.
Please note that many insurance plans do not cover white crowns on back teeth. This will be discussed during your consultation.
Do you offer tooth-colored fillings?
Yes.
Front (anterior) teeth are always restored with white, tooth-colored materials.
Back (posterior) teeth are treated with durable, mercury-free, tooth-colored options.
Front (anterior) teeth are always restored with white, tooth-colored materials.
Back (posterior) teeth are treated with durable, mercury-free, tooth-colored options.
What should we expect after dental procedures?
Most children recover quickly and return to normal routines the following day. Mild swelling or gum irritation may last 5–7 days.
Detailed post-operative instructions will be provided, and a doctor is always available if concerns arise.
Detailed post-operative instructions will be provided, and a doctor is always available if concerns arise.
What should we expect after a frenectomy?
Our laser technique promotes fast and comfortable healing. Mild soreness and a white or yellow healing area are normal. A soft diet and simple exercises will be recommended to support proper healing.
Do you perform dental cleanings?
Yes, when appropriate. Cleanings may be completed during treatment visits, particularly for patients already receiving sedation.
However, we do not function as a routine dental home for regular preventive cleanings.
However, we do not function as a routine dental home for regular preventive cleanings.
When can my child return to normal activities?
Most children resume normal eating, school, and activities the day after their procedure. Recovery can vary, and specific guidance will be provided at discharge.
Are there eating or drinking restrictions before sedation?
Yes—this is extremely important.
You will receive detailed instructions prior to your appointment.
In most cases, children should have nothing to eat or drink after midnight before the procedure. Failure to follow these instructions may result in cancellation.
You will receive detailed instructions prior to your appointment.
In most cases, children should have nothing to eat or drink after midnight before the procedure. Failure to follow these instructions may result in cancellation.
What foods are recommended after dental treatment?
Soft, mild foods are best for the first 24–48 hours. Examples include yogurt, eggs, mashed potatoes, noodles, soup, and ice cream.
How can cavities be prevented?
Cavities develop when sugars and bacteria remain on teeth.
To reduce risk:
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks
- Avoid eating or drinking (except water) before bedtime
- Encourage regular water intake
- Brush and floss daily
To reduce risk:
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks
- Avoid eating or drinking (except water) before bedtime
- Encourage regular water intake
- Brush and floss daily
Why is it important to treat baby teeth?
Baby (primary) teeth play a vital role in your child’s development. They help with proper chewing, speech development, maintaining space for permanent teeth, and supporting overall oral health.
What is a dental crown (cap)?
A crown, or cap, is used when a tooth is too damaged for a filling. It covers and protects the remaining tooth structure, helping preserve the tooth whenever possible.
Do you provide sedation for children with special needs?
Yes. We carefully evaluate each child’s needs and recommend appropriate sedation options to ensure safe and effective care.
What if my child cannot tolerate an exam or X-rays?
This is often an indication that sedation dentistry may be beneficial. We will gather as much information as possible initially and may complete a full exam and X-rays once your child is safely sedated.
Are dental X-rays safe?
Yes. Digital dental X-rays use very low levels of radiation and are considered safe for children. We only take X-rays when necessary for proper diagnosis and treatment planning.
What should I do if my child has dental trauma?
- Knocked-out permanent tooth: Gently rinse and place back in the socket if possible, or store in milk and seek immediate care.
- Chipped or broken tooth: Save any fragments.
- Loose or displaced tooth: Do not force movement—seek evaluation promptly.
- Baby tooth knocked out: Do not attempt to reinsert.
Apply a cold compress for swelling and seek dental care as soon as possible.
- Chipped or broken tooth: Save any fragments.
- Loose or displaced tooth: Do not force movement—seek evaluation promptly.
- Baby tooth knocked out: Do not attempt to reinsert.
Apply a cold compress for swelling and seek dental care as soon as possible.
Do you offer orthodontic treatment (braces)?
No. We do not provide orthodontic treatment. However, we evaluate your child's growth and development and will refer you to a board-certified orthodontist if needed.
Do you offer discounted fees?
Yes! We pride ourselves on offering some of the most competitive fees in the state. Additional discounts are available for military families, first responders, and teachers.
