Frequently Asked Questions
Children's dentistry Offenbach
When should my child go to the dentist for the first time?
Ideally as soon as the first baby tooth has come through – at the latest around the first birthday. As long as nothing hurts, the appointment is mainly about getting to know us and about advice. Your child gets to know the practice in a completely relaxed way.
Do children need their own paediatric dentist?
It is not essential, but it makes many things easier. We are set up for children: our own treatment rooms, explanations suited to their age and considerably more time per appointment. The first contact in particular often decides how your child will experience the dentist later on.
Do you also fit braces or do I have to go somewhere else for that?
You get both from us. Children's dentistry and orthodontics work together under one roof in our practice. That way we keep check-ups, treatment and tooth position in view together.
How often does my child need a check-up?
As a rule twice a year. If there is an increased risk of tooth decay or during the change of teeth, a shorter interval can make sense – we discuss that with you individually.
How do I get an appointment?
Simply call us on 069 24743210 or write to us at info@kinderzahnarzt-offenbach.de. You can also request an appointment using the form on our contact page – we will get back to you promptly.
Treatment without fear
My child is afraid of the dentist – what can I do?
Announce the appointment in good time and in a positive way, and avoid words such as fear, needle or hurt. In the practice we give your child time: first looking, touching and listening, then treating. Whatever does not work on one day, we make up for at the next appointment.
Does the injection at the children's dentist hurt?
Before the injection we numb the lining of the mouth with a pleasant-tasting gel. Your child usually then feels the actual anaesthetic only as slight pressure. We explain every step beforehand – nothing happens unexpectedly.
What happens if my child does not open their mouth?
Then we wait. Pressure does not get anyone anywhere at this point. We use the appointment to build trust and try again next time – it often works considerably better then.
Does my child have to have a general anaesthetic for the treatment?
In the vast majority of cases, no. We work with a local anaesthetic and, for longer treatments, additionally with nitrous oxide sedation. We discuss in detail with you beforehand which is the right way for your child.
How do I prevent my child from becoming afraid in the first place?
Best of all by coming early and regularly while nothing hurts. A child who already knows the practice, the sounds and the dentist experiences a dental appointment later on as something quite normal.
Check-ups and prophylaxis
From what age do I have to brush my baby's teeth?
Daily dental care should begin as soon as the first baby tooth is there. At the beginning a cotton bud or a very soft brush with a tiny amount of toothpaste is enough. Even before the first tooth you can gently wipe the gum ridge after meals.
How much toothpaste may my child use?
For small children an amount no bigger than a pea is enough. More important than the amount is that the toothpaste suits the age and that all the teeth are really reached. At the check-up appointment we are happy to show you this in practice.
How often should children's teeth be brushed?
Up to the end of the second year of life at least once a day, ideally before going to bed. From the second birthday the teeth should generally be brushed twice a day – in the morning and in the evening.
What are chalky teeth (MIH)?
With chalky teeth the enamel is softer and thinner than normal. Typical signs are cloudy white or yellowish-brown patches and increased sensitivity. Affected teeth develop decay more often, which is why thorough hygiene, fluoridation and regular check-ups are particularly important.
Does health insurance pay for teeth cleaning for children?
For children from the age of six, cleaning and fluoride varnish are covered twice a year by the statutory health insurance funds. Anything beyond that we discuss with you beforehand.
Tooth decay in children
Can baby teeth get decay?
Yes, and even more easily than permanent teeth. The enamel of baby teeth is thinner and softer, and decay-causing bacteria stick to it very quickly. That is why early check-ups and good oral hygiene are important right from the start.
Does decay in a baby tooth have to be treated if the tooth falls out anyway?
Yes. Left untreated, the decay can cause greater damage, lead to pain and result in early loss of the tooth. Because baby teeth hold the space for the permanent teeth, that space is then missing later on.
What is a fissure sealant?
The chewing surfaces of the back teeth have fine grooves and pits that are hard to clean with a toothbrush. With a sealant we fill these grooves with a thin resin. The surface becomes smooth and easy to keep clean – no drilling is involved.
Is fluoride harmful for children?
In the dosage recommended for children, fluoride is regarded as safe and is one of the most effective measures against tooth decay. What matters is the amount appropriate for the age. Which toothpaste and which form of fluoridation suits your child, we discuss at the check-up appointment.
How can I prevent tooth decay in my child?
Most effectively with regular, thorough brushing, few sugary snacks between meals and the check-up appointments at the practice. There, disclosing the plaque, brushing lessons, fluoride varnish and, if needed, the fissure sealant are added.
Treating baby teeth
Why do baby teeth have to be treated if they fall out anyway?
Baby teeth keep the space free for the permanent teeth and are needed for chewing and speaking. If a baby tooth is lost too early, the neighbouring teeth drift into the gap and the tooth coming through has too little space. That is why we treat them just as carefully as permanent teeth.
What happens if a baby tooth is lost too early?
Then we keep the gap open with a space maintainer so that the neighbouring teeth do not drift in. The space maintainer is made individually and regularly adjusted to your child's growth.
Can a baby tooth be given a crown?
Yes. If a baby molar is so badly damaged that a filling no longer holds securely, we fit a prefabricated children's crown. It encloses the tooth completely and later falls out on its own together with the baby tooth.
Does treating a baby tooth hurt?
We treat with a local anaesthetic, preceded by a pleasant-tasting numbing gel. For longer treatments, nitrous oxide sedation is additionally possible. Your child is told exactly what will happen beforehand.
How often should my child come for a check-up?
As a rule twice a year. During the change of teeth or if there is an increased risk of decay, a shorter interval can make sense – we will tell you what suits your situation.
Orthodontics for children
From what age does a child need braces?
Regular orthodontic treatment usually begins at around 9 to 12 years of age. A first examination, however, already makes sense from the age of 3 to 5 – by then all the baby teeth are there and misalignments are easy to spot.
Is it too early to start a correction while the baby teeth are still there?
Not necessarily. Some irregularities carry on into the permanent dentition. A crossbite or an open bite can often be guided in the right direction with simple means while the baby teeth are still there. Whether early treatment makes sense, we clarify after an examination.
Does health insurance pay for my child's braces?
For children and adolescents this depends on the classification into the orthodontic indication groups (KIG). From KIG 3 upwards the statutory health insurance covers the standard treatment. Before treatment starts you receive a transparent treatment and cost plan from us.
Does my child have to go to a different practice for braces?
No. Children's dentistry and orthodontics work together here. So you do not have to switch between two practices, and check-ups as well as tooth position stay in view together.
What happens if you wait too long?
As long as jaw growth is not yet complete, misalignments can be corrected considerably more easily. Later on, more elaborate measures are often necessary. That is why we recommend having the teeth checked regularly.
Braces for teenagers
Are there braces that you cannot see?
Yes. With the lingual technique the brackets sit on the inside of the teeth and are practically invisible from the outside. A second discreet option is transparent aligners.
Are transparent aligners just as good as fixed braces?
For many misalignments aligners are an equivalent option. For larger corrections in the permanent dentition a fixed brace is often the more reliable solution, because it works around the clock. What suits your child we clarify together after a detailed diagnosis.
Do white brackets discolour?
Ceramic brackets do not discolour even when worn for a longer time, because the material – unlike plastic – does not absorb colourings from food.
Does my child need a mouthguard for sport?
In many sports there is a considerable risk of injury to the lips, cheeks, tongue and teeth. Around 95 percent of all dental injuries happen before the age of 21. A custom-made sports mouthguard fits considerably better than an off-the-shelf model.
Is it still possible to get braces at 16?
Yes. Teeth can still be moved after growth has finished, as long as the periodontium is healthy. Before the end of growth, however, some things are easier to achieve – so an examination is worthwhile before waiting a long time.
Working with us
How can I apply to you?
Please send us your documents by e-mail to info@kinderzahnarzt-offenbach.de. If you have questions beforehand, simply call us on 069 24743210. We will get back to you promptly.
Do you also accept speculative applications?
Yes. Even if no suitable position is currently advertised, we are pleased to receive your speculative application. Just write us a short note about what you are looking for.
Do you offer training positions?
Please speak to us about this directly – by telephone on 069 24743210 or by e-mail. We will tell you whether and when training positions are available.
Do you also have part-time positions?
Our long practice opening hours make flexible working time models possible. Which model suits your situation is best discussed in person.
Where is the practice located?
You will find us at Darmstädter Str. 15, 63069 Offenbach. Directions with a map are available on our contact page.
Our team
Who will treat my child at your practice?
Paediatric dentists and specialist orthodontists work together in one team at our practice. Who looks after your child depends on the matter at hand – if needed, both specialist areas look at it together. You will find the individual profiles on this page.
What is the difference between a paediatric dentist and an orthodontist?
Paediatric dentistry deals with check-ups, caries, fillings, crowns and preserving the baby teeth. Orthodontics deals with the position of the teeth and jaws, that is with braces and tooth corrections. At our practice both areas work together.
Will I be informed about the costs before a treatment?
Yes. You will learn everything important in advance about costs, timescale, aesthetic effect and possible risks – explained understandably and without jargon. That way you can decide at your leisure.
Do you also treat adults?
Our focus is on children and adolescents – from the first baby teeth through to the teenage years. Please do get in touch and we will tell you which practice in our group is the right one for your concern.
How much time do you take for an appointment?
As much as your child needs. Especially when getting to know each other we deliberately plan more time, so that nothing happens under pressure. Whatever does not work out on one day, we catch up on next time.
Child-friendly treatment
What does a paediatric dentist do differently from an ordinary dentist?
Above all the approach and the pace. Your child first gets to know the instruments and the sounds before they are used, every step is explained in a way suited to their age, and treatment takes place in a room designed especially for children. The materials, too, are matched to the baby teeth.
From what age do you treat children?
From the first baby tooth. The first check-up makes sense from about one year of age and is mainly about getting to know us and about advice.
How long does an appointment take with a small child?
No longer than your child is willing to join in. We prefer to work in several short appointments rather than in one long one where patience runs out towards the end.
What is a tooth-brushing school?
In it we practise the correct brushing technique with your child – first on a model, then on their own teeth. Beforehand we make the plaque visible with a harmless disclosing agent, so that your child can see where something is still missing.
What does preventive care for children include?
Check-up, dietary advice, professional cleaning, tooth-brushing school and fluoridation. Where needed, fissure sealing of the molars is added. From the age of six, cleaning and fluoride varnish are covered by the statutory health insurance twice a year.
The first visit to the dentist
How do I prepare my child for the first visit to the dentist?
Announce the appointment in good time and in a calm tone. Children unconsciously pick up their parents' fears, which is why the choice of words matters more than long preparation. It is best to describe the visit as something interesting, not as something that has to be got through.
What is better not to say to my child before the dental visit?
Sentences such as “There is no need to be afraid” or “that definitely will not hurt” send the wrong signals – they bring the words fear and hurt into play in the first place. Better: “You can look forward to it, today your teeth will be looked at very closely.”
What happens at the first appointment?
First we talk – with you and above all with your child. After that it may look around in peace, try out the treatment chair and get to know the instruments. Only when your child feels confident do we take a look at the teeth.
What if my child does not let itself be examined the first time?
Then that is not a problem. Whatever does not work out on one day, we catch up on at the next appointment. Pressure gets nobody anywhere at this point – trust, on the other hand, lasts a lifetime.
Do I have to bring anything to the first appointment?
Please bring your child's health insurance card and, if available, the bonus booklet. It is also practical to bring the completed medical history form, which you can download from our website.
Building trust
How do I get my child used to the dentist?
Best of all through early, regular appointments at which nothing hurts. Your child gets to know the practice, the sounds and the dentist without anything having to be done. What is familiar is no longer frightening.
My child is very shy – is that still possible?
Yes. We take your child's worries and fears seriously and proceed in small steps. Particularly sensitive children in particular we introduce playfully and give them as much time as they need.
Is drilling already done at the first appointment?
Not as long as there are no complaints. We deliberately use the first appointment for advice, getting to know each other and, where appropriate, a preventive treatment.
Can a baby tooth still be saved if extraction has been advised elsewhere?
Often yes. Our treatment methods, materials and equipment correspond to modern standards, and that frequently makes it possible to preserve and treat baby teeth. Whether this succeeds in an individual case can only be said after an examination – you are welcome to come by for a second opinion.
Anaesthetic for children
Does the injection at the paediatric dentist hurt?
Many children are mainly afraid of the prick. That is why we first numb the mucous membrane with a pleasant-tasting gel. After that your child usually only feels the anaesthetic injection as slight pressure.
How long does the anaesthetic last?
The numbness usually wears off after one to three hours. During this time please make sure that your child does not bite its lip or cheek – it would otherwise not notice.
May my child eat after the anaesthetic?
It is better to wait until the numbness has completely disappeared. Drinking beforehand is usually unproblematic.
Does my child always get an anaesthetic?
No, only when it makes sense for the planned treatment. We discuss what is due with you beforehand and also explain it to your child in a way suited to their age.
Nitrous oxide sedation
What is a nitrous oxide treatment at the dentist?
Your child breathes in a mixture of oxygen and nitrous oxide through a small nasal mask. Fear and tension ease as a result, and the sensation of pain and the gag reflex are clearly reduced. Your child remains awake and responsive the whole time.
Does my child fall asleep under nitrous oxide?
No. Nitrous oxide sedation is not a general anaesthetic. Your child stays awake, can speak and notices everything – but feels comfortable and secure while doing so.
Is nitrous oxide suitable for children?
Nitrous oxide has been used in paediatric dentistry for a long time and can be finely dosed. Whether it is an option for your child depends among other things on their state of health and is discussed with you in detail beforehand.
How long does nitrous oxide continue to work after the treatment?
Only briefly. After the treatment your child breathes pure oxygen for a short time so that the effect is completely reversed. After that it can leave the practice quite normally.
Does the health insurance cover nitrous oxide sedation?
Nitrous oxide sedation is as a rule not a benefit of the statutory health insurance funds. We inform you about the costs in advance so that you can decide at your leisure.
Fillings for baby teeth
Which filling does my child get for caries?
Where possible we use a tooth-coloured composite filling. It is bonded into the tooth, which makes it more stable than a cement filling, and it is not visually noticeable. As an alternative there is the cement filling made of glass ionomer cement.
What does the health insurance pay for a filling for children?
The costs of the cement filling are covered in full by the statutory health insurance funds, those of the composite filling proportionally. What that means in your case we will tell you beforehand.
Are white fillings also possible for baby teeth?
Yes. Tooth-coloured composite fillings are the rule for baby teeth when the situation allows it. They are inconspicuous and restore the shape and function of the tooth.
Does a filling in a baby tooth last until the teeth change?
That is the aim – depending on your child's age, a baby tooth filling has to last several more years. That is why we choose the material to suit the situation and check the filling at the preventive appointments.
Does drilling have to be done when filling?
The area affected by caries has to be removed so that the filling holds. This is done with a local anaesthetic preceded by an anaesthetic gel – and on request additionally with nitrous oxide sedation.
Crowns for baby teeth
What is a children's crown?
A prefabricated crown that is fitted onto a badly damaged baby molar. It encloses the tooth completely, protects it from further caries and restores the chewing surface and the shape of the tooth.
Does the crown have to be removed again later?
No. The crown falls out entirely by itself together with the baby tooth when the permanent tooth comes through.
When is a filling no longer sufficient?
When a baby tooth is affected by caries on several surfaces and too little healthy tooth substance is left to anchor a filling securely. A crown then stabilises the tooth.
How many appointments does a baby tooth crown need?
As a rule one. Because the crowns are prefabricated, there is no impression for a laboratory and the tooth can be treated in a single session.
Why is the tooth not simply extracted?
Because the baby tooth holds the space for the permanent tooth. Instead of extracting the tooth and keeping the gap open with a lot of effort, we prefer to preserve it – as long as that is possible.
Caring for baby teeth
From when do I have to brush my baby's teeth?
As soon as the first baby tooth is there. At the beginning a cotton bud or a very soft brush with a tiny amount of toothpaste is enough. Even before that you can gently wipe the gum ridge after every meal.
How much toothpaste does a toddler need?
At most an amount the size of a pea, and for the very smallest considerably less. Use a toothpaste that suits your child's age.
How long do I have to help my child with brushing?
First attempts at brushing on their own make sense from the second year of life, but fine motor skills are usually only sufficient at primary school age. Until then the rule is: your child may start, and you brush afterwards.
Which toothbrush is the right one for children?
A special mini toothbrush with soft, multi-tufted and rounded bristles. The small head also reaches the back teeth without pressing.
What can I do if my child resists brushing?
Firm rituals help: always at the same time, in the same place and in a set order. Brushing together and small games take the fight out of it. At the preventive appointment we practise the technique with your child – afterwards it often works better at home.
What do I do when my child has a wobbly tooth?
As a rule wobbly teeth come loose by themselves when the permanent tooth comes through. Do not pull at it by force. If the tooth hurts, the gum is inflamed or the permanent tooth is already coming through next to it, we will take a look.
Root canal treatment on a baby tooth
Can a baby tooth be root treated?
Yes. If the tooth is to be preserved – for aesthetic reasons or because it is needed as a space maintainer – a baby tooth can also be treated through the root canals. The inflamed nerve tissue is removed in the process.
Why is the tooth not simply extracted?
Because baby teeth hold the space for the permanent teeth. If the tooth is lost too early, the neighbouring teeth move into the gap. In certain cases extraction is nevertheless the better way – we then keep the gap open with a space maintainer.
My child has fallen onto a tooth – what now?
Have the tooth looked at promptly, even if it appears undamaged from the outside. With front teeth in particular, a fall is frequently the cause of a later nerve inflammation. Call us on 069 24743210 and we will find an appointment at short notice.
How do I notice that the tooth nerve is inflamed?
Frequent indications are persistent or night-time pain, sensitivity to pressure when chewing, a discolouration of the tooth or a swelling of the gum. This can only be assessed reliably during an examination.
Does the tooth get a crown after the root treatment?
As a rule yes. The crown stabilises the treated tooth so that it is preserved as a space maintainer for the permanent tooth.
Space maintainers
What is a space maintainer at the dentist?
A space maintainer, also called a gap maintainer, keeps the gap of a baby tooth lost too early open. In this way the neighbouring teeth cannot move in and the permanent tooth later finds enough room.
What happens if a baby tooth falls out too early?
The neighbouring teeth gradually move into the gap. Later there is then not enough room for the permanent tooth coming through. Losing several baby teeth early can also affect speech development.
How long does my child have to wear the space maintainer?
Until the permanent tooth grows through – that can be a few years. During this time we check the fit regularly and adapt the space maintainer to your child's growth.
Does my child have to wear the gap maintainer all day?
The removable gap maintainer is a loose brace that is generally worn at night. How much wearing time is necessary in an individual case we will tell you when it is fitted.
May my child choose the colour of the brace?
Yes. The gap maintainer is made individually in the dental laboratory, and your child may choose the colour of the plastic itself. Experience shows that a brace chosen by the child is worn more willingly.
Early treatment with baby teeth
My child sucks its thumb – does that harm the teeth?
Prolonged thumb sucking can change the position of the teeth and jaws, for example leading to an anterior open bite. The earlier the habit is given up, the better. We take a look at the situation and show you which measures help with it.
From what age should a child have a first orthodontic examination?
A first check can make sense from the 3rd to 5th year of life. At this age all baby teeth are present, and misalignments or malfunctions can be recognised well.
Is my child not too young for a brace at four years old?
For a regular treatment usually yes – that as a rule only begins at 9 to 12 years. An examination is nevertheless sensible: some faulty development can be steered in the right direction in the baby dentition with very simple means.
What is a crossbite?
In a crossbite the upper teeth bite past the lower ones on the inside instead of covering them. This can affect individual teeth or whole lateral areas and is therefore frequently corrected as early as in the baby dentition.
How long may my child have a dummy?
The earlier the dummy is given up, the smaller the influence on the position of the teeth. If your child holds on to it for longer, it is best to have the position of the teeth and jaws checked – then we can see whether anything needs to be done.
Orthodontics during the change of teeth
What is the mixed dentition?
That is the name for the transitional phase in which the baby teeth are gradually replaced by the permanent teeth. It usually begins around the sixth year of life and is particularly important from an orthodontic point of view.
When is the best time for the first orthodontic examination?
If no particularities have appeared in the baby dentition, the 8th to 9th year of life is a good time. If there were already noticeable findings there, we take a look earlier.
Does my child already get a fixed brace in this phase?
Usually not. In the mixed dentition we generally work with removable braces. Fixed appliances are customarily used later, when the permanent teeth are there.
What is a bionator?
A bionator is a removable, functional orthodontic appliance. It guides jaw growth via the musculature and is used above all in the mixed dentition.
Why is the growth spurt used for the treatment?
As long as the jaw and the facial bones are still growing, misalignments can be regulated with less effort. That is gentler on your child and improves the overall picture along the way.
Medical history form
Where do I find the medical history form to print out?
You will find the medical history form for children on this page as a PDF to download. You can print it out and fill it in at your leisure at home.
Do I have to fill in the form before the appointment?
You do not have to, but it saves time in the waiting room. At home you can look up in peace which medicines your child takes or which pre-existing conditions there are.
What do I do if I do not understand a question in the form?
Simply leave it blank. We go through the form together with you at the appointment and clarify any open points.
Can I also fill in the form at the practice?
Yes, that is possible too. In that case please come a few minutes earlier, so that there is enough time before the treatment.
Appointment request
How can I request an appointment online?
Simply fill in the form on this page and write briefly what it is about and when it suits you best. We will then get in touch with you and arrange the appointment.
How quickly do I get an answer?
As a rule within the next practice opening days. If it is urgent, please call us directly on 069 24743210.
My child has toothache – what do I do now?
In this case please do not use the form, but call us directly on 069 24743210. In the case of acute complaints we try to find a slot at short notice.
Can I also make an appointment by telephone?
Yes, at any time during our consulting hours on 069 24743210. Matters that can wait you can also send us by e-mail to info@kinderzahnarzt-offenbach.de.
What happens to my data from the form?
We use your details exclusively to process your appointment request. You will find details on this in our privacy policy.
Contact and directions
Where do I find your practice?
You will find us at Darmstädter Str. 15, 63069 Offenbach. On this page you can see a map and have a route calculated directly.
How do I reach you by telephone?
On 069 24743210 during our consulting hours. Matters that can wait you can also send us by e-mail to info@kinderzahnarzt-offenbach.de or via the form on this page.
When are you open?
You will find our current consulting hours here on this page and in the footer of every page. Appointments outside the consulting hours are possible in individual cases by arrangement.
What do I do about toothache outside the consulting hours?
The dental emergency service will then help you further. You will find the current details on this on our emergency service page. In the case of life-threatening emergencies please dial 112.
What is the best way to get to you?
On this page you will find an interactive map and a button for the route planner. If you have questions about how to get here, feel free to call us on 069 24743210.