Family Dentistry – Worcester, MA

Quality Dentistry for All of Your Loved Ones

Dr. Joseph Costa is a family dentist in Worcester, MA. He offers comprehensive general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and restorative dentistry services to address all of your family’s dental health needs. His office welcomes patients of all ages. We recommend that children come in for their first visit around age three, when all primary teeth will lilely have erupted.

How to Practice Preventive Dental Care

Preventive dentistry is put in place to address minor dental issues before they become advanced dental issues. Taking preventive measures now can help you avoid the need for extensive, advanced dental treatment in the future. Preventive dental care can save you time, money, and discomfort in the long run. Practicing preventive dental care is simple and only takes a few minutes of your daily routine. You can incorporate healthy dental practices into your routine by following these key tips:

  • Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes a day.
  • Floss your teeth.
  • Rinse with an antibacterial rinse.
  • Schedule routine preventive dental visits twice a year.

Following each of these steps can help improve the quality and appearance of your smile. Our team of dentists works with you to coordinate the care dental care you need. During your routine preventive dentistry visit, you will be screened for complex dental problems and receive a professional teeth cleaning. After the visit, your dentist will recommend any necessary treatment needed to improve your smile.

Why You Need Preventive Dental Care

Preventive dental care offers a wide range of benefits for your overall oral health. Additionally, preventative dental care allows your dentist to catch any complex dental problems in their earliest stages. Patients can receive the care they need and may avoid the need for advanced dental treatment. In the long run, preventive dental care can save you time and money. Taking care of your teeth can help keep them healthy and functional.

A Child’s First Visit to the Dentist

While a pediatric dentist focuses on children, our dental office is family-oriented. We encourage parents to bring their children to the dentist early to familiarize them with our dental office. Our staff is trained to make children feel as comfortable as possible. Children look to parents for signs, so the best thing you can do for your child is to remain calm and relaxed.

Our entire staff takes time to educate patients on their dental health and how best to maintain and improve it. Tooth decay and cavities are common in children, often as a result of both diet and poor oral hygiene habits. Teaching the youngest patients how to brush and floss effectively is an important part of routine preventive dental care and the foundation of lifelong dental health.

Family dentistry offers many benefits for today’s busy families:

  • All members of the family can be seen in one location.
  • Young patients can learn good dental health habits by visiting the dentist alongside their parents or caregiver.
  • Visiting the dentist with a parent or caregiver can reduce anxiety in young patients.

Children’s Dentistry Services

Routine pediatric dentistry visits may include:

  • Teeth cleaning
  • Diagnostic X-rays (as needed)
  • Charting of teeth and existing tooth conditions
  • Dental caries (cavities) screening
  • Evaluation of the gums

We offer a complete menu of pediatric dental services for children as young as three. Although we encourage young children to grow their teeth naturally, we will recommend additional treatments for those with moderate to severe cases. We may recommend such services as:

  • White fillings
  • Custom sports mouthguards
  • Invisalign for teens
  • Teeth cleanings
  • Digital dental X-rays
  • Dental sealants
  • Dental bonding
  • Tooth extractions

Family Dentistry FAQs

Learn more about family dental care below:

When Should My Child Get Dental Sealants?

We will recommend dental sealants when your child’s molars come in. Your child’s first set will appear between the ages of 5 – 7. We’ll place sealants on them when all of those have come through and then again when the second set comes completely through. This is typically between the ages of 11 – 14. Dental sealants are an extra layer of protection for your child’s teeth that help prevent tooth decay.

How Can I Prepare My Child for Their First Dentist Appointment?

Your child may be anxious about their first dental appointment, which is completely normal. We recommend speaking to your child about what to expect. There are many books and videos available that can help you. We find that many of the fears children have about visiting a dentist are because they do not know what to expect. Using positive reinforcement is also very helpful. We allow favorite stuffed animals or comfort items to accompany your child during their visit to help them feel brave and safe.

Are Dental X-rays Necessary for Children?

Yes! Children especially need dental X-rays taken since they are more susceptible to tooth decay. Sometimes the dentist cannot see the space between the back teeth, and the films will provide a helpful view. X-rays are a strong tool to help your dentist spot dental problems early and find the correct treatment.