Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Our Scottsdale pediatric dentists believe preparing kids for their first dental visit starts at home. Ultimately, we all want your little one to have a calm and positive experience where they feel comfortable and excited to visit. 

Tips for Creating a Happy Dental Visit 

First, we recommend talking to your child about the dentist using simple, happy language. So, please never use words like “drill,” “shot,” or “pain,” as this can scare them. You can even explain that they’ll get to sit in a big, comfy chair while the friendly dentist counts their teeth and helps keep their smile healthy.

Many parents even watch short videos or read books about visiting the dentist, and this really seems to work wonders! You can even play pretend at home, where your child is the dentist and you’re the patient. This can show them that it isn’t scary, and it can actually be fun.

As parents ourselves, we recommend bringing your child when they’re well-rested and fed so they’re more comfortable and less likely to be cranky or tired—this helps the visit go much more smoothly.  

Book Your Child’s Next Dental Visit 

At Tatum Pediatric Dentistry, our team goes the extra mile to make your child’s first visit welcoming, gentle, and fun. We can’t wait to meet your little one!

We recommend arranging your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or when their first tooth makes its grand debut, whichever comes first! These early visits set the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

What Happens During the First Visit?

Your child’s first dental appointment is like a “get-to-know-you” session. We’ll gently check their teeth and gums to ensure everything looks great, talk about how to care for those brand-new pearly whites, and answer any questions you might have. The goal is to keep things simple, positive, and stress-free. Dr. Guymon also monitors and helps guide jaw development, including preparation and referrals for orthodontic care. 

Why Start So Early?

You might be wondering, “Why take my child to the dentist when they barely have teeth?” Great question! Early visits help catch potential issues before they become bigger problems, like tooth decay or alignment concerns. Plus, it’s a chance for your little one to get familiar with the sights, sounds, and friendly faces of our dental office, so future visits feel like no big deal. 

Healthy Habits Start Young

Starting dental visits early helps build healthy habits for life. We’ll teach you (and your child as they grow) simple tips to care for their teeth at home, like brushing with a tiny toothbrush and making smart snack choices.

Ready to Book That First Visit?

Schedule your child’s first appointment with Tatum Pediatric Dentistry today, and let’s get those tiny teeth off to a fantastic start!

Our Scottsdale pediatric dentists believe preparing kids for their first dental visit starts at home. Ultimately, we all want your little one to have a calm and positive experience where they feel comfortable and excited to visit. 

Tips for Creating a Happy Dental Visit 

First, we recommend talking to your child about the dentist using simple, happy language. So, please never use words like “drill,” “shot,” or “pain,” as this can scare them. You can even explain that they’ll get to sit in a big, comfy chair while the friendly dentist counts their teeth and helps keep their smile healthy.

Many parents even watch short videos or read books about visiting the dentist, and this really seems to work wonders! You can even play pretend at home, where your child is the dentist and you’re the patient. This can show them that it isn’t scary, and it can actually be fun.

As parents ourselves, we recommend bringing your child when they’re well-rested and fed so they’re more comfortable and less likely to be cranky or tired—this helps the visit go much more smoothly.  

Book Your Child’s Next Dental Visit 

At Tatum Pediatric Dentistry, our team goes the extra mile to make your child’s first visit welcoming, gentle, and fun. We can’t wait to meet your little one!

Our Scottsdale pediatric dentists believe preparing kids for their first dental visit starts at home. Ultimately, we all want your little one to have a calm and positive experience where they feel comfortable and excited to visit. 

Tips for Creating a Happy Dental Visit 

First, we recommend talking to your child about the dentist using simple, happy language. So, please never use words like “drill,” “shot,” or “pain,” as this can scare them. You can even explain that they’ll get to sit in a big, comfy chair while the friendly dentist counts their teeth and helps keep their smile healthy.

Many parents even watch short videos or read books about visiting the dentist, and this really seems to work wonders! You can even play pretend at home, where your child is the dentist and you’re the patient. This can show them that it isn’t scary, and it can actually be fun.

As parents ourselves, we recommend bringing your child when they’re well-rested and fed so they’re more comfortable and less likely to be cranky or tired—this helps the visit go much more smoothly.  

Book Your Child’s Next Dental Visit 

At Tatum Pediatric Dentistry, our team goes the extra mile to make your child’s first visit welcoming, gentle, and fun. We can’t wait to meet your little one!

A typical cleaning and exam for kids takes about 15-20 minutes, which is just enough time to get those pearly whites sparkling without losing their attention. At Tatum Pediatric Dentistry, we make every minute count by keeping things fun, comfortable, and efficient.

What Happens During the Visit?

• A Warm Welcome — From the moment your child walks in, our friendly team sets the tone with big smiles and a cheerful hello.
• Gentle Cleaning — We carefully remove plaque and tartar, polish their teeth until they shine, and finish with a gentle flossing. Many kids say the tickly cleaning tools feel fun!
• Thorough Checkup — Dr. Guymon will check teeth, gums, and bite alignment to ensure everything is growing and functioning just right.
• Fun Education — We teach kids the importance of brushing and flossing, sharing tips and tricks in a way they’ll love.

Dr. Guymon also monitors and helps guide jaw development, including preparation and referrals for orthodontic care. 

Time for Some Smiles and Fun

We always leave room for extras like answering questions, sharing a few laughs, and letting your child choose a fun prize from our treasure chest. It’s all part of making dental care something they’ll look forward to!

Why Regular Cleanings Matter

These cleanings every six months make a big difference in your child’s oral health. Regular cleanings prevent cavities, catch minor issues early, and help your child develop positive feelings about visiting the dentist.

Book Your Child's Appointment Today

Ready to keep your child’s smile bright and healthy? Call Tatum Pediatric Dentistry to schedule their next cleaning and exam. We’ll ensure they leave with a happy smile and maybe even a new favorite sticker or toy!

Composite fillings are a fantastic option for kids. Made from a durable, non-toxic tooth-colored resin, they repair cavities or minor damage while keeping your child’s teeth looking completely natural. Your little one won’t even notice the difference, and neither will anyone else.

What Makes Composite Fillings a Great Choice?

• Durable and Strong
• Tooth-Colored Match 
• Non-Toxic Materials 
• Quick and Easy Placement

How Do Composite Fillings Work?

When your child has a cavity or small tooth damage, we gently clean the area and apply the composite resin. Using a special light, the filling hardens and bonds to the tooth, restoring its strength and function. The result is a beautifully repaired tooth that looks and feels just like the real thing!

Preventing Cavities Moving Forward

While composite fillings are great for fixing issues, preventing cavities in the first place is even better. Regular cleanings, checkups, and a great brushing and flossing routine can help keep those little teeth in great shape.

Schedule Your Visit Today!

If your child needs a filling, give us a call for an appointment with Dr. Guymon. We are here to ensure your child's teeth and gums are healthy, strong, and problem-free. We look forward to welcoming you to our dental office!

First things first: please don’t panic. For patients of record experiencing a dental emergency after our regular hours, take a deep breath and call our Scottsdale dental office. We’ll provide clear guidance to help you manage the situation and, if needed, arrange to see your child as soon as possible.

For Severe Emergencies

For severe emergencies—like heavy bleeding or severe swelling—it’s important to act quickly. These situations may require immediate care from our team or at the nearest emergency room. 

In the case of a knocked-out tooth, try to gently rinse it with water (don’t scrub), place it in a glass of milk or saline, and give our office a call. And if we don't respond right away, head to an urgent care or ER. Acting fast could save the tooth. 

For Less Urgent Issues

For other less urgent issues, like a mild toothache or a chipped tooth, you can usually keep your child comfortable until we can see them by using over-the-counter pain relievers and a cold compress for swelling.

We’re Here to Help! 

We know that dental emergencies can feel overwhelming, especially when they happen at the most inconvenient times (because, let’s face it, kids and good timing don’t always mix). 

At Tatum Pediatric Dentistry, we’re here to guide you through even the trickiest situations with calm, compassionate care. If you need assistance, please give us a call. 

The first thing to do is remain calm. A knocked-out tooth is a scary situation, but you have the skills and expertise of your Scottsdale emergency dentist to rely on.

Next, contact your team at Tatum Pediatric Dentistry at (602) 788-4873 right away. We have the best chance of saving your child's tooth the quicker we can treat it. If their emergency occurs outside our normal business hours, there are instructions over the phone on how to reach our emergency contact. 

Finally, transport your child's tooth with care. Try not to handle it too much; placing it back in its socket is best if you can. If not, use saliva or milk to keep the tooth moist while you get to the dentist. Be careful not to touch the roots. 

Treatment Options at Tatum Pediatric Dentistry

Our dentists will discuss the best treatment options for your child if we can't save their permanent tooth. One possibility is making them a retainer with a prosthetic tooth that they can wear until they're old enough for a dental implant. 

Being proactive and acting calmly and quickly if a tooth gets knocked out is the best way to possibly save your child's natural tooth. 

We always go above and beyond to ensure your child is safe and comfortable during every appointment, including a tooth extraction. 

How We Make It Comfortable

• Gentle Numbing — We place a numbing cream and then carefully and gently numb the whole tooth so that your child will feel comfortable for the extraction.
• Sedation Options — For kids who feel extra nervous, we offer safe, child-friendly sedation to help them relax and stay calm.
• Kid-Friendly Explanations — We take the time to explain the process in simple, reassuring terms so your child knows exactly what to expect.

What Happens During the Procedure?

Once we numb the area, Dr. Guymon gently removes the tooth with precision and care. The process is quick, and most kids are amazed at how easy it is. We’ll talk to your child throughout the procedure to keep them calm, and we’ll even sneak in some encouragement and jokes along the way.

What About After the Extraction?

After the procedure, we’ll provide easy-to-follow instructions to help your child heal quickly and comfortably. We recommend:

• Over-the- counter pain medications
• Soft foods, like bananas and mashed potatoes
• Plenty of rest 

And, of course, your child will get plenty of praise for being so brave. Plus, they get a chance to pick a fun prize before heading home.

Book a Stress-Free Visit Today

Tooth extractions don’t have to be scary. With our gentle techniques and caring team, your child will leave with a big smile. Dr. Guymon also monitors and helps guide jaw development, including preparation and referrals for orthodontic care. 

Call Tatum Pediatric Dentistry today to schedule an appointment or learn more.

Laser dentistry is safe, effective, and perfect for kids. It’s a gentle, precise way to treat tongue-ties and lip-ties, reshape gums, and more without the loud noises or vibrations of traditional tools. Plus, it often means quicker healing times and less stress for little patients.

Why Laser Dentistry Is a Great Choice for Kids

• No Loud Noises — Unlike traditional tools, lasers are quiet, so your child won’t have to hear those unsettling sounds.
• No Vibrations — The smooth, precise nature of laser treatment means no uncomfortable sensations.
• Quick Healing — Lasers promote faster healing, with less swelling, bleeding, and discomfort after the procedure.
• Super Precise — Lasers target only the problem area, which helps protect surrounding teeth and gums.
• Less Stress — Laser dentistry helps ease dental anxiety for even the most nervous patients.

What Can Lasers Treat?

Laser dentistry is incredibly versatile. We use it to fix tongue-tie or lip-tie issues, reshape gums, and even speed up healing cold sores. It’s an amazing tool that allows us to provide easy, exceptional care with your child’s comfort in mind.

What to Expect During a Laser Dentistry Visit

The process is simple and stress-free. Dr. Guymon will explain everything in kid-friendly terms, and most procedures are so gentle and take less than 30 seconds. It’ll be over before they know it!

Schedule a Laser Dentistry Appointment Today

If you’re looking for safe, precise care for your child, laser dentistry is the perfect solution. Call Tatum Pediatric Dentistry today to learn more or book an appointment.

Our Scottsdale pediatric dentists believe preparing kids for their first dental visit starts at home. Ultimately, we all want your little one to have a calm and positive experience where they feel comfortable and excited to visit. 

Tips for Creating a Happy Dental Visit 

First, we recommend talking to your child about the dentist using simple, happy language. So, please never use words like “drill,” “shot,” or “pain,” as this can scare them. You can even explain that they’ll get to sit in a big, comfy chair while the friendly dentist counts their teeth and helps keep their smile healthy.

Many parents even watch short videos or read books about visiting the dentist, and this really seems to work wonders! You can even play pretend at home, where your child is the dentist and you’re the patient. This can show them that it isn’t scary, and it can actually be fun.

As parents ourselves, we recommend bringing your child when they’re well-rested and fed so they’re more comfortable and less likely to be cranky or tired—this helps the visit go much more smoothly.  

Book Your Child’s Next Dental Visit 

At Tatum Pediatric Dentistry, our team goes the extra mile to make your child’s first visit welcoming, gentle, and fun. We can’t wait to meet your little one!

We recommend bringing your child in for a checkup and cleaning every six months. Think of it as a little spa day for their smile! These regular visits are how we catch small problems before they become big ones.

Why Every Six Months? 

When it comes to growing teeth, a lot can happen in half a year. Plaque and tartar can sneak in; even the most dedicated little brushers might miss a spot or two. During these visits, we gently remove buildup, check for cavities, and make sure everything is growing just as it should. Dr. Guymon also monitors and helps guide jaw development, including preparation and referrals for orthodontic care.

These visits are a great time to talk about brushing, flossing, and healthy eating in a way that makes kids feel like smile superheroes. They also help build confidence. Visiting us regularly helps your child get comfortable with the dentist, and dental care then becomes a more fun, normal part of life. They’ll leave each appointment with a shiny smile, the tools to keep it that way, and maybe even a special prize!

Schedule Your Child’s Dental Checkup

Ready to mark your calendar for those twice-a-year visits? Regular preventive care in Phoenix is the key to lifelong healthy habits and happy smiles. Call us today for an appointment. 

The length of sedation depends on the type used during your child’s dental procedure. At Tatum Pediatric Dentistry, we tailor sedation to fit your child’s specific needs, whether it’s a quick cleaning or a longer treatment.

Laughing Gas for Mild Sedation

If your child receives nitrous oxide (laughing gas), the effects wear off within minutes after the mask is removed. Most kids bounce back to their normal selves before they even leave the office! It’s perfect for short, simple procedures and helps reduce anxiety without lingering drowsiness.

Moderate to Deep Sedation

For oral sedation or IV sedation, the calming effects last a bit longer. Your child may feel groggy or sleepy for a few hours after the appointment. We recommend rest and quiet time at home while the medication fully wears off.

If general anesthesia is used—typically for complex procedures or very young or anxious patients—the effects may last several hours, and your child might feel sleepy the rest of the day.

Your Child's Safety Is Our No. 1 Priority

No matter which type of sedation is used, our team will monitor your child closely during the entire process and give you clear instructions for aftercare at home. We’ll make sure your little one stays safe, comfortable, and on the road to a happy, healthy smile.

We Offer Safe Sedation Dentistry for Kids in Phoenix 

You can call us at (602) 788-4873 to learn more about our sedation options or to book your child's visit. 

It depends on the type of dental procedure and the level of sedation being used. In most cases, your child will not be fully asleep. At Tatum Pediatric Dentistry, we offer several kid-friendly sedation options to make dental visits more comfortable and stress-free.

Laughing Gas

For simpler treatments, we may use nitrous oxide (laughing gas). This gentle sedative helps kids feel calm and relaxed while staying awake and responsive. It's safe, effective, and wears off quickly after the visit.

IV Sedation or General Anesthesia

For more involved procedures or for children with high anxiety or special healthcare needs, we may recommend IV sedation or general anesthesia. In those cases, your child would be asleep during the procedure, and the sedation is administered and monitored by trained professionals to ensure their safety.

Call Our Children's Sedation Dentists in Phoenix

Our team will walk you through every option and help choose the safest, most comfortable solution for your child’s individual needs. We know that no two smiles are the same, and neither are their comfort levels!

Have questions? Please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help your little one feel safe, supported, and maybe even excited about their next visit to the dentist. Call us at (602) 788-4873.