When should my child first see a dentist?
By the first birthday, or within six months of the first tooth appearing, whichever comes first. Early
visits are short, mostly about prevention and habits, and they make later visits far easier for your
child.
Why treat a milk tooth if it is going to fall out anyway?
Milk teeth hold the space for permanent teeth, guide them into position, and are needed for chewing and
clear speech. An untreated infection in a milk tooth can cause pain, swelling, and can affect the
permanent tooth forming underneath it. That is why we treat cavities and infections instead of waiting.
What is a pulpectomy? Will it hurt my child?
A pulpectomy is a root canal for a milk tooth: the infected nerve tissue is removed, the canals are
cleaned and filled with a material that dissolves as the tooth naturally loosens, and the tooth is sealed.
It is done under local anaesthesia after numbing gel, so most children feel pressure rather than pain, and
the toothache is gone afterwards.
Is fluoride safe for children?
Yes. Fluoride varnish applied by a dentist uses a very small, controlled amount painted onto the teeth.
It sets within minutes. Your child should avoid hard, hot or sticky food for a few hours afterwards, and
that is about it.
At what age should my child be checked for braces?
A first orthodontic check around age 7 is recommended. Most children do not need anything at that age,
but a few benefit from early treatment while the jaw is still growing. Braces or aligners for the full
permanent set are usually planned between 11 and 14, and Dr. Vasavi will give you a clear timeline after
the assessment.
My child is scared of the dentist. What if they cry or refuse?
That is normal and expected. We use a tell, show, do approach: explain in simple words, show the tool,
then do it. First visits are short and often nothing more than a look and a count. If your child needs a
break or a second visit to settle, that is what we do. Children are not forced.
Do you use sedation for children?
For most children, gentle behaviour guidance and local numbing are enough. If your child has very high
anxiety, special needs, or a lot of treatment to complete, the dentist will discuss the safest approach
with you at the consultation before anything is planned.
How much does treatment cost?
It depends on what your child needs. A filling, a fluoride application, an extraction and a pulpectomy
are all priced differently, and you get the exact cost after the check-up, before anything starts. EMI and
flexible payment plans are available for braces and aligners.
Where is the clinic and when is it open?
Tooth Journey is on the 3rd floor of Hytek Arcade, Block A, opposite SBI on Kancha Gachibowli Road,
Nallagandla, Hyderabad 500019. Open Monday to Sunday, 10 AM to 8 PM. Call +91 88850 25778 or use the
form to book.