Ask Dr. Kelly: Why are regular checkups so important?

No matter what your age, visiting Goodyear dentist Dr. Kelly Hilgers on a regular basis will help keep your teeth and gums healthy, and your smile bright!

The American Dental Association recommends that both children and adults visit the dentist every six months for regular checkups and routine teeth cleanings. And we would love to see you here every six months to make sure that your smile is staying healthy!

Our staff at Hilgers Pediatric Dentistry completely understand that you have a busy schedule, so while we like to make sure your appointments are informative, we also like to make sure they don't stop you from doing the things you love! When preparing to visit Drs. Hilgers or Mathieu, please know that your appointment can last anywhere from 20 to 40 minutes.

When it's time for your next dental appointment, please call us at (623) 536–0079, and our friendly office staff will be ready to help you schedule an appointment.

Dr. Kelly Hilgers wants to know: this summer, what's on your child's reading list?

Summer 2010 is only days away, and we've been thinking more and more about the importance of reading lately. Specifically, summer reading. Sure it’s easier for kids to go play with friends, sit back and watch television or participate in other activities, but Dr. Kelly Hilgers and team will tell you reading during the summer is a key step in your child being prepared for school.

Tell us: is your child reading a book this summer? If so, what's on his or hers reading list?

If you're out of ideas for summer reads, we encourage you to ask Drs. Kelly or Mathieu for suggestions, and our staff at Hilgers Pediatric Dentistry would be happy to provide a few great titles. You may also ask a local librarian for some suggestions or check out various summer reading ideas that we found today.

Happy reading everybody!

Movie night with Dr. Kelly and team!

This Friday, June 11th, our entire team will be at Goodyear Ballpark for movie night! We will be watching The Tale of Despereaux.

Gates open at 7 pm, and the movie begins at 8.

We encourage you to bring blankets and pillows for lawn seating! Admission is FREE, and concessions will be available for purchase.

See you all there!

Ask Dr. Kelly: What should I do during an emergency?

When your child needs urgent dental treatment, Dr. Kelly Hilgers and team stand ready to help. Please keep our emergency number available and convenient. Here are some helpful answers to some recent patient questions. Have a great weekend everyone!


Q: What should I do if my child's baby tooth is knocked out?

A: Contact our office as soon as possible.

Q: What should I do if my child's permanent tooth is knocked out?

A: Find the tooth and rinse it gently in cool water. (Do not scrub it or clean it with soap -- use just water!) If possible, replace the tooth in the socket and hold it there with clean gauze or a wash cloth. If you can't put the tooth back in the socket, place the tooth in a clean container with milk, saliva, or water. Get to our office immediately. (Call the emergency number if it's after hours.) The faster you act, the better your chances of saving the tooth.

Q: What if a tooth is chipped or fractured?

A: Contact Hilgers Pediatric Dentistry immediately. Quick action can save the tooth, prevent infection and reduce the need for extensive dental treatment. Rinse the mouth with water and apply cold compresses to reduce swelling. If you can find the broken tooth fragment, bring it with you when you visit Drs. Kelly or Mathieu.

Q: What about a severe blow to the head or jaw fracture?

A: Go immediately to the emergency room of your local hospital. A blow to the head can be life threatening.

Q: What if my child has a toothache?

A: Call us and visit the office promptly. To comfort your child, rinse the mouth with water. Apply a cold compress or ice wrapped in a cloth. Do not put heat or aspirin on the sore area.

Q: Can dental injuries be prevented?

A: Of course! First, reduce oral injury in sports by wearing mouth guards. Second, always use a car seat for young children. Require seat belts for everyone else in the car. Third, child-proof your home to prevent falls, electrical injuries, and choking on small objects. Fourth, protect your child from unnecessary toothaches with regular dental visits to our office.