Questions to Ask Your Family Dentist

Encinitas, Carlsbad, and San Diego

What is family dentistry and how will it meet the needs of my family?

Family dentistry provides tooth health and preventative dental care to each member of your family. Family dentists have knowledge pertaining to all ages and treat children, parents and grandparents.

 

Another benefit of family dentistry is comprehensive treatment. Many family dentists provide cosmetic dentistry services as well, achieving both the beauty and health of your smile. 

 

What family dentistry services do you offer?

A family dentist should offer a wide range of services to treat every member of your family. In San Diego and the surrounding areas, Dr. Mary Walsh-Cole offers all the general dentistry services to meet your family’s needs:

• Dental cleanings
• Digital x-rays
• Periodontics

Additionally, Dr. Walsh-Cole is an experienced cosmetic dentist, and provides services and procedures beyond general dentistry.

 

Do you use state-of-the-art technology?

Different dentists use different technology, and your dentist should be able to explain the benefits and advantages of the practice’s chosen technology.

Equipment used at Dr. Walsh-Cole’s office includes digital x-rays and the DIAGNOdent laser. Both of these innovations identify early stages of tooth decay and have several advantages:

• Compared to traditional x-rays, digital x-rays are faster and provide a clear, high-definition image. These x-rays also have very low levels of radiation.
• The DIAGNOdent uses laser light to detect tooth decay in hard-to-find locations.

 

These dental technologies let Dr. Walsh-Cole ensure the tooth and gum health of your family.

 

Do you participate in ongoing family dentistry education?

A dentist who participates in continuing education is more likely to be informed of the latest knowledge and techniques regarding dentistry. Dr. Walsh-Cole has pursued numerous educational opportunities beyond dental school, including a Fellowship and Mastership from the Academy of General Dentistry, as well as courses at the prestigious Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies, where she continued to refine her skills in cosmetic dentistry and other procedures.

 

At what age should my child begin going to the dentist?

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends taking your child to the dentist when the child’s first tooth is apparent or at least before the child’s first birthday. For most children, their first tooth erupts from the gums around 6 months of age.

 

In your child’s first dental appointment, the dentist looks for signs of decay and generally examines the child’s dental health. Your dentist can also show you how to clean and care for your baby’s teeth and gums.

 

If you live in San Diego or the surrounding areas, please contact experienced cosmetic dentist Dr. Mary A. Walsh-Cole to schedule a consultation.