At Collins Dentistry & Aesthetics, we proudly serve patients of all ages, from kids to mature adults. Every age poses its own challenges, and we know how to address them all. If you’re looking for a Spokane Valley dental office that does it all, look no further than Collins Dentistry & Aesthetics for your family dentistry.
Please call 509-532-1111 (Spokane), email us today, or schedule an appointment online with our Spokane family dentists, Dr. Ken & Marnie Collins. We look forward to seeing you!
Benefits of Family Dentistry
There are many reasons to work with a single dentist for all your family’s dental treatment. First, it’s hard to find a dentist you can trust, so why waste time trying to find two or three? In addition, having a single-family dentist:
- Allows you to combine visits for convenience
- Keep all your records in one place—you only have to update insurance info once!
- Ensures continuity of care
- Helps you build a better relationship with your dentist for better care
- Gives your dentist insight into shared oral health issues
In these days of increasingly fragmented healthcare, it’s better to work with a single dentist for the majority of your general dentistry needs. You and your family benefit from this traditional way of doing dentistry—we can treat you better because we know you better.
Spokane Pediatric Dentistry
Maintaining a healthy smile is important at any age, but it’s especially important that kids get a good start in life toward a healthy smile. From check-ups, cleanings, and fluoride treatments to sealants, braces, and even mouthguards for kids who play sports, Collins Dentistry & Aesthetics has your pediatric dentistry needs covered. Our gentle and caring team is great with kids. We recommend bringing kids in soon after they turn 3 to get them in for their first cleaning. We make it a fun and enjoyable experience to build a positive relationship with the dentist that will last a lifetime. Book your child’s appointment today!
Responsive Dentistry as You Age
Nobody likes to admit it, but none of us is as young as we used to be. As we age, our dental care needs change, and at Collins Dentistry & Aesthetics, we can respond to your changing needs. Your risk of periodontal disease increases with age, but thorough dental cleanings will reduce that risk.
And if you have a hard time admitting to your age, our aesthetic treatments can make it so you don’t have to. Your regular dental visits make excellent cover for skincare that can help you maintain your youthful appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Family Dentistry?
Family dentistry focuses on treating oral health at every stage of a patient’s life. From childhood to adulthood, family dentists provide oral care to children, teenagers, adults, and seniors. They understand changes in primary teeth as well as the need for cosmetic changes in permanent teeth.
Family dentists can also take care of multiple members in a single family. Their commitment to each patient for a prolonged period of time can help them understand dental history as well as genetic oral issues, allowing them to provide optimal care. Having a family dentist can also help ease dental anxiety in young children.
What Is the Difference Between a Family Dentist and a Pediatric Dentist?
A family dentist can provide oral care to both children and adults, while pediatric dentists are dedicated to the oral health of young patients from infancy through their teen years.Â
How Can I Prevent Dental Decay for My Family?
There are many ways to prevent dental decay for yourself and your family. This all begins with a good oral routine, which includes:
- Flossing your teeth once a day.
- Brushing your teeth twice a day.
- Eating balanced meals and healthy food.Â
- Avoid excessive amounts of sugary foods and drinks.
- Avoid foods and drinks that may stain your teeth.
- Do not ignore tooth pain or gum issues if you feel or notice them.
- Visit your dentist regularly.
Are Dental X-Rays Safe for My Family?
Yes! Dental X-rays are safe, even for young children. Because dental X-rays do not emit a harmful amount of radiation, they are safe for use before any dental treatment. However, at Collins Dentistry & Aesthetic, we understand your child’s safety is of utmost importance which is why we take extra precaution when taking dental X-rays on children.
At What Age Should I Start Taking My Child to See the Dentist?
Taking your child to the dentist at about six months of age is generally a good time for their first dental appointment. When you take your infant to a family dentist, they will be able to monitor the growth, progress, and health of their teeth as they grow. It is recommended to take your child to the dentist within 12 months of age, or within six months of their first tooth appearing. Â
How Can I Prepare My Child for Visiting the Dentist?
Many young children can find dental visits intimidating. Having dental anxiety is a common occurrence among both young patients as well as adults. However, there are many preparatory things you can do to help your child feel more comfortable at each dental visit. These activities can include:
- Participating in their oral routine with them daily. Help them brush their teeth in the morning and night, or stand beside them while you do it together.
- Read books or watch videos about friendly dental visits.
- Play the role of a dentist and help them get comfortable with what they can expect.Â
- Trust them with the truth by telling them what can happen to their teeth if they don’t perform their oral routine properly or if they don’t visit the dentist. Cavities are the most common issue among children.
- Set up a consultation if they are meeting a dentist for the first time so they can get to know them.
- Allow them to bring their favorite toy to their appointment.
- Accompany them to their appointment so they have a familiar face with them in a new environment.
- Commit to a family dentist so they can find comfort in knowing the same dentist their parents have will also take care of them.
How Often Should I Bring My Child in for Routine Dental Checkups?
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends children get dental check-ups every six months. This will allow for a professional cleaning twice a year, preventing cavities and other serious oral issues that may require more dental work. If your child experiences tooth pain, bleeding gums, or other issues within six months, you should bring them to their dentist before their next check-up.
Contact Collins Dentistry & Aesthetics Today
To learn more about our quality family dentistry in Spokane Valley, please contact Collins Aesthetic Dentistry or call their office at 509-532-1111 in Spokane today.