Frequently Asked Questions
Experience the Optimal Kids Difference
Where Dentistry Meets Whole-Person Wellness for Infants, Children, and Teens
We understand that choosing the right dental care for your child is a significant decision, especially for health-conscious parents.
Below is a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions to help you learn more about Optimal Kids Pediatric Dental Medicine and how our integrative, wellness-focused approach can benefit your child or teen.
General Questions about Our Practice
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What is integrative dentistry, and how does it differ from traditional dentistry?
Integrative dentistry combines conventional dental practices with a holistic approach to overall health. We consider factors like nutrition, sleep, lifestyle, and emotional well-being in our treatment plans, aiming to enhance not just oral health but overall wellness.
How is your practice different from traditional pediatric dental offices?
Our wellness-focused philosophy prioritizes prevention and the use of biocompatible materials. We offer personalized care that considers the whole child—physical, emotional, and environmental factors—rather than focusing solely on dental issues.
Do you follow environmentally friendly practices?
Yes, we are committed to eco-friendly practices, including the use of natural and safe materials, digital records to reduce paper use, and environmentally responsible waste management.
What ages of patients do you treat?
We specialize in treating patients from infancy through age 18, including infants, children, pre-teens, and teenagers. Our services are tailored to meet the unique needs of each developmental stage.
Specific Health Concerns
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My child has a medical condition. Can you accommodate their needs?
We are experienced in treating children with various medical conditions. Please provide detailed information on your child’s health, and we will tailor our care accordingly.
Do you treat children with food allergies or dietary restrictions?
Yes, we take all allergies and dietary restrictions seriously. Our nutritional guidance and in-office practices will be adapted to meet your child’s needs.
How do you handle emergency dental situations?
We understand that dental emergencies can be stressful and require prompt attention.
Since we currently operate by appointment only, please contact us immediately at our emergency telephone number (919.219.6428) if your child experiences a dental emergency.
We will prioritize your situation and make every effort to accommodate your child as soon as possible, even outside of our usual appointment schedule.
Can you help with sleep-related issues like snoring or sleep apnea?
Yes, we evaluate and address sleep-disordered breathing issues. We may recommend myofunctional therapy or collaborate with sleep specialists for comprehensive care.
Treatment Approaches and Philosophy
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What does "wellness-focused" dental care mean?
Wellness-focused care means we aim to support your child’s overall health through dental practices. This includes preventive care, education on healthy habits, and treatments that promote general well-being.
Do you offer preventive treatments to avoid future dental issues?
Absolutely. Preventive dentistry is a cornerstone of our practice.
We provide regular check-ups, cleanings, sealants, and education on proper oral hygiene and nutrition to prevent cavities and other dental problems.
In addition, we offer a Remineralization Plan designed to strengthen your child’s teeth and enhance their overall oral health.
This plan not only focuses on fortifying tooth enamel but also incorporates strategies to reduce inflammation in the body—the underlying factor that can contribute to various dental issues.
By addressing both the immediate and systemic causes of oral health problems, our Remineralization Plan ensures a holistic approach to maintaining your child’s healthy, confident smile.
Do you offer minimally invasive treatments?
Yes, we aim for minimally invasive procedures whenever possible to preserve natural tooth structure and reduce discomfort.
How do you incorporate nutrition into dental care?
Nutrition plays a significant role in oral health. We offer guidance on dietary choices that support healthy teeth and gums, including advice on reducing sugar intake and consuming nutrient-rich foods.
What is myofunctional therapy, and does my child need it?
Myofunctional therapy involves exercises to improve the function of facial muscles and tongue posture. It can benefit children with habits like thumb-sucking, tongue thrusting, or those who mouth-breathe. We assess each child individually to determine if this therapy would be beneficial.
Services Offered
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Do you treat emergency and trauma-related dental issues?
Dr. Jasmine Elmore is dedicated to providing swift and expert care for dental emergencies and trauma. She has years of expertise and experience – including hospital emergency room experience.
Whether your child has sustained a sports-related injury, a knocked-out tooth, or experienced any other dental trauma, we are here to help.
We understand that dental emergencies can be frightening for both children and parents. Our compassionate and experienced team strives to create a calm and supportive environment, ensuring your child feels safe and cared for during their visit.
If your child experiences a dental emergency, please contact us immediately at our emergency telephone number (919.219.6428).
We are committed to providing the urgent care needed to protect and preserve your child’s dental health.
Do you provide orthodontic evaluations?
Yes, we offer orthodontic evaluations and can provide guidance on the appropriate timing for braces or other orthodontic treatments like Myobrace, Toothpillow, and ALF (Advanced Lightwire Functionals).
We work closely with orthodontic specialists when needed.
What options do you offer for cavity prevention and treatment?
Preventive dentistry is a cornerstone of our practice.
We provide regular check-ups, cleanings, sealants, and education on proper oral hygiene and nutrition to prevent cavities and other dental problems.
In addition, we offer a Remineralization Plan designed to strengthen your child’s teeth and enhance their overall oral health.
This plan not only focuses on fortifying tooth enamel but also incorporates strategies to reduce inflammation in the body—the underlying factor that can contribute to various dental issues.
By addressing both the immediate and systemic causes of oral health problems, our Remineralization Plan ensures a holistic approach to maintaining your child’s healthy, confident smile.
When your child or teen needs a cavity filled, we perform minimally-invasive treatment whenever possible. And we use a variety of non-toxic, biocompatible materials for fillings.
Do you perform extractions, including wisdom teeth removal?
We perform extractions when necessary, including evaluations for wisdom teeth in teenagers. For complex cases, we may refer you to a trusted oral surgeon.
Are sedation options available for anxious children or complex procedures?
Yes, we offer various sedation options, including nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and in-office general anesthesia performed by a board-certified dental anesthesiologist.
Our goal is to ensure your child’s comfort during procedures. We discuss all options with parents beforehand.
If my child cannot receive nitrous oxide (laughing gas) can you still treat them?
Yes, we can!
We are well aware of certain genetic mutations or medical conditions can affect how a child’s body processes nitrous oxide, making it unsafe or ineffective for them. These conditions may involve respiratory issues, specific enzyme deficiencies, or other health concerns that necessitate alternative sedation methods.
Our team is trained in gentle, compassionate techniques specifically designed to ease dental anxiety.
We create a friendly and welcoming environment, utilizing behavioral support strategies and positive reinforcement tailored to each child’s or teen’s unique needs.
Our goal is to ensure your child’s comfort during procedures. We discuss all options with parents beforehand.
Philosophy and Collaboration
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Do you collaborate with other health practitioners?
We believe in a collaborative approach to healthcare. With your consent, we can work with pediatricians, nutritionists, orthodontists, airway health specialists, osteopaths, physical therapists, and others involved in your child’s care.
How do you involve parents in the treatment process?
We see parents as partners in their child’s health.
Parents are always welcome in the dental exam room at Optimal Kids.
We keep you informed at every step, discuss treatment options, and welcome your questions and input.
Are you open to alternative health practices?
Yes, we respect and can incorporate alternative health practices that align with our treatment goals. Please share your preferences with us.
Patient Experience and Office Environment
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Do you accommodate children with special needs?
Yes, we are experienced in treating children with various special needs and tailor our approach to meet each child’s specific requirements.
Can siblings have appointments at the same time?
We strive to accommodate family scheduling needs. Please let us know your preferences when booking, and we will do our best to schedule siblings together.
How do you handle dental anxiety in children and teens?
Our team is trained in gentle, compassionate techniques specifically designed to ease dental anxiety.
We create a friendly and welcoming environment, utilizing behavioral support strategies and positive reinforcement tailored to each child’s or teen’s unique needs.
To foster a sense of independence and help your child build confidence during dental visits, we kindly ask that parents remain in the waiting area while their child or teen is being seen.
This approach often helps reduce anxiety, as children and teens may feel more comfortable and less self-conscious when interacting directly with our dental team without a parent’s presence. It allows us to establish a trusting rapport with your child, encouraging open communication and enabling us to address their concerns more effectively.
Exceptions: We understand that every child is unique, and some situations may require a different approach. For infants, very young children, and children with special needs, we welcome and encourage parental presence during the appointment to ensure your child feels secure and comfortable. In these cases, having a parent or caregiver in the room can provide additional reassurance and support, facilitating a positive dental experience.
Rest assured, regardless of the circumstances, we will keep you fully informed about your child’s progress and are always available to discuss any questions or concerns before and after the appointment.
Our primary goal is to make every visit as comfortable and stress-free as possible for both you and your child.
Materials and Techniques Used
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What are biocompatible materials, and why do you use them?
Biocompatible materials are substances that are compatible with the body and less likely to cause adverse reactions. We use them to minimize the risk of allergies and sensitivities, promoting overall health.
Do you offer fluoride-free treatments?
Yes, we provide fluoride-free options and alternative methods to strengthen teeth, such as remineralization therapies, for families who prefer them.
Are your dental products BPA-free and safe for children?
Absolutely. We prioritize using BPA-free and non-toxic materials in all our dental products and treatments to ensure the safety of your child.
How do you ensure that your materials and procedures are safe for children with allergies or sensitivities?
We take detailed medical histories. Our team is trained to accommodate various allergies and sensitivities, and we offer hypoallergenic options.
Insurance, Payment, and Scheduling
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Do you take insurance?
At Optimal Kids Pediatric Dental Medicine, we operate as a fee-for-service practice.
This means that payment is due at the time of service.
However, we understand that navigating insurance can be challenging, so as a courtesy, we will bill your insurance directly.
Please be aware that reimbursement depends on your individual insurance policy and benefits, and we cannot guarantee coverage. We recommend contacting your insurance provider beforehand to understand your out-of-network benefits and any applicable reimbursement procedures.
Do you offer payment plans or financing options?
While we do not directly offer payment plans or financing options, we are committed to helping you access the care your child needs. Our office staff can connect you with reputable third-party financing providers and share information about programs that may assist with the cost of dental services. Please feel free to discuss your needs with us, and we’ll do our best to help you find a suitable solution.
How can I schedule an appointment?
You can schedule an appointment by calling our office at 919.297.8970, emailing us at hello@optimalkidsdental.com or using our new patient request form on our website.
Do you have evening appointments available?
Yes we do! All of our patients are by appointment. We have evening appointments available until 8:00pm Monday through Friday. You can schedule an appointment by calling our office at 919.297.8970, emailing us at hello@optimalkidsdental.com or using our new patient request form on our website.
What is your cancellation policy?
We request at least 48 hours’ notice for cancellations or rescheduling. This allows us to offer the appointment time to another patient.
Health and Safety Protocols
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What are your sterilization and infection control procedures?
We adhere to strict sterilization protocols as recommended by the American Dental Association (ADA), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Your child’s safety is our top priority.
How do you handle COVID-19 precautions?
We follow all current guidelines for COVID-19 safety, including enhanced sanitation, masks for your use, if desired, in waiting areas, and personal protective equipment for staff.
Educational Resources
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Do you provide educational materials for parents and children?
We offer a variety of resources, including pamphlets, workshops, and one-on-one education during visits to help families understand oral health and wellness.
In addition, we will be adding to our online courses and guides – including homeopathy remedies you can use at home.
Can you guide us on how to instill good oral hygiene habits at home?
Absolutely. We provide personalized recommendations and techniques to help your child develop and maintain healthy oral hygiene practices.
Miscellaneous
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Is your office wheelchair accessible?
Yes, our office is fully accessible to accommodate patients with mobility challenges.
How do you handle dental anxiety in children and teens?
Our team is trained in gentle, compassionate techniques to help ease anxiety.
We create a friendly environment and use behavioral support strategies tailored to each child and teen.
We have nitrous oxide (laughing gas) available if desired and there are no health contraindications for your child or teen.
We also have a homeopathy remedies guide available online for your use at home and prior to appointments.
Do you offer services in languages other than English?
Please contact us to inquire about language services. We strive to accommodate the needs of all families.
