Questions Parents Ask Us Most
Families in New Braunfels ask great questions. Here are the ones we hear most.
The Treetop Experience
Do you see infants?
Absolutely. From checking for tongue ties to helping with teething questions and gentle lap-to-lap exams, those early visits are some of our favorites. They are a friendly introduction to dental health and the beginning of a relationship that can last all the way through high school. Learn more about what to expect at a first visit here.
Can I stay with my child during the exam?
Yes, and we mean it. We believe parents are partners, not bystanders. You are welcome to be with your child during their cleaning and exam, and we want you to see the Treetop difference firsthand. The more comfortable you are, the more comfortable they will be.
What if my child is afraid or has a "meltdown"?
Fear is completely normal, and supporting nervous children is part of what we do every day. From the toddler treehouse and secret door to our doctors trained in child behavior guidance, we approach every nervous child with patience and zero judgment. We use “Tell-Show-Do” to walk kids through every step in language they understand, calling the suction a “thirsty straw” and the polisher a “tooth tickler”. If your child is having an off day, don’t worry—we’ve seen it all, and we’re here to help them win. For children with more significant anxiety, we also offer gentle sedation options. Learn more here.
What are our options for extra-nervous patients?
For children who need a little extra help feeling brave, we offer nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, as a gentle, safe option during treatment.
Nitrous oxide is mild, wears off quickly, and allows children to remain awake and responsive during their appointment.
For children with more significant anxiety or complex needs, additional sedation options may be available. We will talk through everything together before any appointment so you feel informed and confident going in. Learn more about our sedation options here.
How do you care for children with special needs?
Inclusive, compassionate care is at the heart of what we do, and we mean that for every child. We have experience caring for children with sensory sensitivities, developmental differences, autism spectrum disorder, and medical complexities. We encourage families to call ahead so we can learn about your child before the visit and prepare accordingly, whether that means a quieter room, extra time, visual supports, or a specific communication style that works best. There is no one-size-fits-all approach here, we work with you.
Clincal & Safety FAQ
What makes a pediatric dentist different?
Think of us as the pediatricians of dentistry. Our doctors completed years of specialized residency training focused entirely on kids. They are also board-certified, passing rigorous examinations beyond standard dental school.
Do you evaluate airway and sleep concerns?
Yes. As part of how we look at the whole child, we screen for signs of mouth breathing, narrow jaw development, and sleep-related concerns. If we see something worth addressing, we will always tell you honestly and involve the right specialists. We believe how a child breathes is just as important as how they brush.
At what age should my child start seeing a dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a first visit by your child’s first birthday, or within six months of their first tooth appearing, whichever comes first. Starting early helps us prevent cavities before they start and helps your child feel right at home at Treetop.
How often should my child visit the dentist?
Most children do best with visits every six months for a cleaning and exam. Some children, especially those with a higher risk for cavities, may benefit from more frequent visits. We will let you know what we recommend for your child specifically and explain why, so you are never left guessing.
Are baby teeth really that important?
Yes, and more than most parents realize. Baby teeth help your child speak clearly, chew comfortably, and guide permanent teeth into their correct positions. Untreated cavities in baby teeth can cause pain, infection, and damage to the permanent teeth developing underneath. Tooth decay is the number one chronic childhood disease in the United States, but the good news is it is largely preventable, and prevention is exactly what we are built for.
Is thumb sucking bad for my child's teeth?
Not necessarily, and not right away. Thumb sucking is a normal self-soothing habit in infants and young children, and most stop on their own between ages two and four with no lasting effect on their teeth. It is when the habit continues beyond age four or five, especially as permanent teeth begin to come in, that we start to pay closer attention, as it can affect bite development. We will give you honest guidance without making your child feel bad about it.
When should my child see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic screening by age seven. At that point, enough permanent teeth have come in to identify any developing alignment or bite concerns early.
At Treetop, we monitor growth and development at every visit and will let you know if orthodontic treatment makes sense. We also offer Invisalign for both children and teens, giving families a discreet alternative to traditional braces when the timing is right.
Are dental X-rays safe for my child?
Yes. We use digital X-ray technology that produces significantly less radiation than traditional film. We follow the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable), meaning we only recommend X-rays when they are clinically necessary.
Is fluoride safe for my child?
Yes. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that strengthens enamel. We understand families have different comfort levels, and we respect that; we will share the evidence and work with you to make a decision that fits your family.
How do I know if my child has a cavity?
Sometimes you can’t, which is why regular visits are vital. Early cavities often have no visible signs and cause no pain until they have progressed. You might notice a small white or brown spot or sensitivity, but many cavities don’t announce themselves early on. Catching concerns early makes them much simpler to treat.
Logistics & Emergencies
What if my child has a dental emergency?
Call us first. If your child is experiencing tooth pain, a knocked-out tooth, a broken tooth, swelling, or any dental injury, contact our office right away. We reserve time in our schedule specifically for these situations and will do everything we can to see them the same day. For after-hours emergencies, follow the instructions on our voicemail to reach our team.
While you wait for your appointment:
- Knocked-out permanent tooth: Place it in a small container of milk and call us immediately.
- Knocked-out baby tooth: Do not try to reinsert it, as this can damage the developing permanent tooth underneath.
- Swelling or infection: Seek care promptly to prevent the spread of bacteria.
- Learn more: View our full guide to Emergency Care
Do you accept dental insurance?
Yes. We work with many PPO dental insurance plans and will help you understand your benefits before treatment begins. We also offer flexible payment options for families without insurance or with out-of-pocket costs. Our team will walk you through estimated costs before any appointment so there are no surprises.
