The best time for your child's first visit is 2 1/2 to 3 years old.  Of course if you have a concern, at any age, don't hesitate to come to our office.  But we find the most success and cooperation occurs around the age of 3.  Here are our best tips for parents to try to ensure a successful 1st visit.

1. Lead By Example

Parents that brush and floss, have children that brush and floss.  Parents that talk positivly about their dental visits have chil...

1. Check Your Brushing Muscles.

Using a lot of force when brushing or scrubbing too hard causes the gums to pull away from the teeth. This exposes the sensitive, softer, root surface. Plaque is soft and can be removed with a tissue, no need to be aggressive with the tooth brush.

2. Switch Up Your Tooth Paste.

Sensitive toothpaste is awesome. It coats the...

As Dr. Jim Wachlarowicz closes his practice, it is my hope that I can continue with his legacy to serve you and your family’s dental needs. Dr. Jim and I have a good working relationship and similar dental beliefs and practices. I truly hope to earn your trust and promise to work with you .

Sauk Centre Family Dental is very happy to be part of the Sauk Centre community. Our family is eager to meet your family, and hopeful for the opportunity to serve you. We prov...

• Less healthy tooth needs to be removed to place a white filling. A white filling is bonded, or sealed to the tooth.  A silver filling (or an amalgam filling) is not. A larger part of healthy tooth needs to be removed to lock the filling in place. (see picture below)

• Less cracking involved overtim...

Saliva is amazing and acts as a super hero to each of your teeth. Saliva plays a very important role in keeping your teeth healthy. Saliva neutralizes acid in your mouth, increases your ability to taste food, cleanses, prevents infection and controls bacteria in the mouth. Saliva protects, washes your teeth and prevents cavities. You truly can’t have too much saliva and probably won’t give it much thought unless you don’t have it. Without it, problems can arise.

Bacteria Target: The Tongue

You brush and floss every day, but you are missing a huge part of oral hygiene if you neglect your tongue. Your tongue is a giant target for bacteria and a major cause of bad breath! The tongue is covered with taste buds and in between the taste buds are valleys. Those dips, valleys and crevices are the perfect spot for bacteria to hide, grow and multiply.

1. Talk the Talk
Discussion is a huge part of preparing your child for a successful dental visit. At any age, you want to talk about why you brush and floss your teeth. (Something as simple as: “We brush and floss to get rid of sugar bugs.” Is a good place to start.) You also want to discuss what happens at a dentist and why it is so fun! Even if it isn’t your favorite place to be, creating a positive image for your child will help him or her.