Dr. Halterman is firmly committed to providing young patients and their families with the latest and best techniques available to prevent dental disease. Every child patient deserves the opportunity to grow to adulthood free of dental disease and the dental treatment that can be required.

We are comfortable and have years of experience discussing concerns parents may have about recommended treatments. These include the use of X-ray films, fluorides, and filling materials.

• X-rays: X-rays can be an extremely useful preventive treatment, but X-rays are not necessary at all recall examinations. Our office X-ray machines (both regular and Panographic) are digital. Digital X-ray give substantially less X-radiation and are immediately developed. The enlarged X-rays can be easily seen on all computer screens throughout the office, and the enlarged X-ray can be easily explained to the parent(s) and patients.
• Fluorides and other compounds (Xylitol, Peridex, Calcium paste, etc): Depending upon the examination, there are many different circumstances and many different preventive measures that can be done. These treatment options will be discussed.
• Filling materials: We do not use the amalgam (silver and mercury) fillings. The new composite are more challenging to place, but if done properly, they are just as good and in some cases are a better material.
• Sealants: A dental sealant is a filling material that is applied to a chewing surface of a back tooth. The sealant acts as a barrier, protecting enamel by “sealing out” plaque (bacteria) and food. About 80% of initial cavities start in the pits and grooves of teeth. If done properly, sealants are an extremely great preventive treatment. Ten (10) years after the sealant is applied, I strive to get and have gotten 99+% retention. However, not all people need dental sealants. I highly recommend sealants in 50 to 70% of patient.

Parents are welcomed and encouraged to accompany their child into the treatment rooms for dental visits. Our office philosophy is that we not only fill cavities; we fulfill our mission to educate parents and children by providing the appropriate information and tools with which dental decay can be prevented for life.

After a child is approximately five years of age, we encourage the children to come to the dental treatment area alone. I will always speak with the parent(s) at all visits.

Parents leave our office with a thorough appreciation of the condition of their child’s oral health, how any problems can be prevented, controlled and as required, treated.

For more information about Your Child's First Dental Visit, click here.
For Pediatric Frequently Asked Questions, click here.