Q: At what age should I take my child for their first visit to the dentist?

A: Children should begin regular dental visits by their first birthday. The dental team will check your child’s teeth and see if they are at risk for cavities. This quick visit can prevent dental problems down the road and provides an opportunity for you to ask any oral health questions you may have.

Q: What dental care is covered by MSI ?

A: MSI covers basic dental care for children from birth up to the end of the month in which they turn 10 years old.

Once a year, the MSI Children’s Oral Health Program covers: one dental exam, two x-rays, fillings and one cleaning/preventative service.

Q: What are dental sealants?

A: A sealant is a clear or shaded plastic coating that your dentist or hygienist puts on the chewing surface of the back molars. Sealing a tooth takes only a few minutes, does not require freezing and prevents decay where it happens most (in the deep grooves of back teeth).

Sealants are covered by MSI, one time only, for all first adult molars with deep grooves.

The above information on oral health matters was submitted to this Newsletter by Shannon K ONeill, Dental Hygienist, School Team, Public Health Services, Capital Health