Rhoades Family Dentistry

We are always happy to welcome new patients! If you are experiencing pain, we will make every effort to see you the day you call. Whether you’re needing a dental check-up and cleaning, or more extensive planning for restoring your smile, our wonderful team is here to help. We keep blocks of time available exclusively for our new patients to assist in seeing you as soon as possible. Fill out a new patient form on our website or give us a call today to book your first appointment!

Hello, we certainly do! We would also be happy to help if there are any other accommodations that can be made to make this visit great for you!

Yes, we will do our best to try an offer same day surgery whenever possible! If you’re in pain, we will see you that same day to help get your pain under control. If you make an appointment, it’s more likely we can make it work in the best way possible for you!

Toothpastes and mouthwashes for kids come with and without Fluoride, the anti decay ingredient in most commercial dental products. Fluoride plays a necessary crucial role in home care for preventing dental decay, but can be harmful if swallowed. Only a pea-sized dollop of toothpaste is needed. It’s recommended that parents evaluate whether or not their children can “spit” excess toothpaste into the sink once they are done brushing to check if they are ready for the pea-sized dollop yet. For the younger kiddos who are unable to spit yet, it is still very important that fluoridated toothpaste is used as soon as the first tooth appears; however, limit the amount to that of the size of a grain of rice.

Children need help and supervision brushing their teeth until around age 6, or until they have the manual dexterity to tie their own shoes. Making tooth brushing a fun, enjoyable part of the regular daily routine will encourage kids to have good dental habits once they are able to do it on their own. Nutrition plays a critical role in an individual’s dental health, as does genetic vulnerability to the bacteria that cause decay. Avoiding snacks and drinks at bedtime is wise, including bottles of milk or juice, which both contain natural sugar.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends children have their first dental exam at 12 months. Children begin erupting their primary, or “baby” teeth, around 6 months of age, and therefore should be seen by a dentist soon after in order to detect problems early. We call the first visit a “Happy Visit,” with more talking, show-and-tell, and playful interaction to get the kids used to the environment and have a positive first experience. Behaviorally, children tend to do well if mom or dad brings them along to one of their own dental cleaning appointments before making the child their first appointment, so the child can see how it goes and get comfortable with the care provider. This is most effective between ages 1 and 2. You know your own children better than anyone else, and will be the best person to decide when they are ready to try their first visit.